1997 F150, Changing The GEM Module, Window & Wipers Inop

This 1997 Ford F150 needs the GEM module changed due to multiple conditions. To see testing that lead to this repair please click here. The GEM module is located at the rear of the interior fuse box.

The first step is to remove the trim panel that covers the gap between the upper side of the steering column and the dash. It just unsnaps from the dash. It makes it a little easier to remove if you move the shifter all the way down to drive 1.

With that out of the way the lower dash cover can now be removed. Most of the screws have 7 mm heads but there are two that have 8 mm heads.

Those two are at the lower edge of the fuse box.

One wiring harness needs to be disconnected from the panel.

Now the screws for the fuse box can be removed.

The wiring harnesses can be removed from the back of the fuse box. Two 10 mm headed bolts at the center of each connector.

Next remove the tube brace from around the bottom of the steering column. Four fasteners with 13 mm heads.

Now wiggle, pry and twist the fuse box and GEM module assembly down.

After the assembly is down far enough unplug the remaining harness connectors from the GEM module.

Almost there.

The assembly is now free of the vehicle.

The GEM module is held to the back of the fuse box by three phillips headed screws.

Easy to remove Now.

With the three screws removed the GEM unplugs from the back of the fuse box.

I put it all back together and checked my repair for power to the driver’s power window switch.

 

210 discussions on “1997 F150, Changing The GEM Module, Window & Wipers Inop”

  1. I have a 1999 F150 and after changing the heater core now the Power windows, Radio, Cruse Control, and inside light do not work. I have did your test and it shows good. What would you look at to fix this problem. I think it is the gem module but not sure.

  2. I would have to check when I get to the shop tomorrow, but I think the GEM module is behind the radio on the Explorers and Rangers. Did you disconnect your radio to see if it is the cause of the drain? It is very common for the memory circuit on the radio to fail and cause a battery drain of Ford products.

  3. I have a similar problem with a 2000 Explorer. Tracked down a 760ma draw to the Radio and the fuse circuit for the GEM, Instrument cluster and Securi-lock. Disconnected instrument cluster and confirmed that it is not the problem. I assume that teh GEM in an explorer is in a similar location on the back of its fuse panel. Is that correct? I checked all the fuses in the Power Distribution box and all but one were not a problem. I assume taht the 60A fuse for the I/P fuse panel is merely the fuse protecting the interior fuse panel. Correct? If that is the case, then I have it narroed down to the GEM or the Securi-Lock. Can anyone tell me what the Securi-Lock is? I don’t even know if I have one?

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