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.
Do all four preciously listed problems return when put into gear? It is not uncommon for the radio to cut out due to a faulty transmission range switch.
Sparky, I have a 1999 F150 Lariat which had the problem with power windows, windshield wipers, dome light, and radio not working. I checked and found that the GEM module was bad according to all the possible tests to do. I went and got a used one and put it in everything works fine until you put the truck into a moving gear. In Park and Neutral everything works great but Drive and Reverse nothing works. could this be an overload for the GEM or a ground issue or what. I am lost on the truck and hope I can get it fixed thanks for the help.
It would not be a GEM issue. The first thing to check with the passenger side window problem is the condition of the switches. Slowly work both switches in both directions and pay close attention to the feel. If one of the switches does not have that distinctive little click when depressed in a particular direction, then you will need to replace that switch. Also with the key on but the engine off and in a low light condition, slowly active the switches and look for a slight dimming in the dash warning lights. A slight dimming in both directions would indicate a stuck window motor. A slight dimming in only one direction would be either a switch or wiring issue. No dimming at all could be worn brushes in the power window motor or any number of various other faults.
Sparky, I have a 1998 F150 XL – the power mirrors and the passenger side power window do not work. All other systems normal. passenger side does not work from either driver side or passenger side switch. Not sure where to test to try to figure out the cause. Any suggestions? it does not seem like a GEM, but maybe it is ? all help appreciated…
Chris in Katy, TX
I would recommend doing some testing to find the answer. There is a link to test information in the first paragraph of this repair article.