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. Start with the window issue. Check to see if there is power on the light blue/black wire at the driver’s power window switch with the key on. The wire color may be different. Main point is there should be a power wire, at the switch, with the key turned on.

  2. I just bought a 1999 F150 completely stock (everything). The radio and wipers work when the key is turned backwards (accessories) but not when turned forward (ignition), the windows don’t roll up or down regardless of key position. The “service engine soon” and “ABS” lights don’t work at all either (bulbs and fuses are good). Everything else about the truck is great, runs great too!
    We’ve changed the ignition switch, no change in problem. And we’ve also tried 2 different GEMs out of a salvage yard (honestly, I don’t know if they came out of a truck identical to mine or not), but even with the different GEMs, the problems were exactly the same as with my original GEM (that’s what really puzzled me)? Any suggestions?

    Great tutorial by the way! Helped a ton! Thank you!

    -Ryan

  3. No. The only function that the GEM has in relation to the engine computer on this vehicle will be as part of the anti theft system if present. It will not cause it to run poorly. If you care to tackle these issues yourself, I would start with the easiest. The right rear turn signal. If you want help, email me. My email address is under Contact Sparky link. Only diagnose one problem at a time though.

  4. I am in need of wiring assistance. I have a ground issue/issues with my 98 f150, 4.6L. The right tail light blinker will only come on with the head lights off. I have replaced the connectors (male and female) and have power, just will not blink. I have bypassed the ground to all blinkers individually. Also, I was having problems with the battery losing power over night last week (that strangely went away) and when it did go away the dash wash jumping around; Now my cold/hot gauge is reading hot all the time from a turn of the key. I also have idle problems when I turn the power on for the heater as the engine revs higher. It seems to have a higher idle than normal, is this caused by the hot/cold gauge reading hot all the time. The engine fan thats supposed to slow down as the engine warms, does not seem to do that all the time neither.
    I have just cleaned and greased every ground I could find except the starter, even the positive lead for the alternator.

    Thanks for your time.
    P.S I do not have any engine codes. Also I have replaced the: MAF sensor, TPS, IAC, checked for vac leaks with propane torch and still go through gas like it is water (40-50kms per 18 litres)
    Would the GEM cause these issues.

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