Dodge 2000 DURANGO Service Manual page 501

DN
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)
The electronic compass unit features a self-cali-
brating design, which simplifies the calibration pro-
cedure. This feature automatically updates the
compass calibration while the vehicle is being driven.
This allows the compass unit to compensate for small
changes in the residual magnetism that the vehicle
may acquire during normal use. If the compass read-
ings appear to be erratic or out of calibration, per-
form the following calibration procedure. Also, new
service replacement compass mini-trip computer
modules must have their compass calibrated using
this procedure. Do not attempt to calibrate the com-
pass near large metal objects such as other vehicles,
large buildings, or bridges; or, near overhead or
underground power lines.
NOTE: Whenever the compass is calibrated manu-
ally, the variation number must also be reset. See
Compass Variation Adjustment in the Service Pro-
cedures section of this group.
Calibrate the compass manually as follows:
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the Step
push button to step through the display options until
you have reached the compass/temperature display.
(2) Depress both the U.S./Metric and the Step
push buttons. Hold the push buttons down until
"CAL" appears in the display. This takes about ten
Fig. 2 Variance Settings
seconds, and appears about five seconds after "VAR"
is displayed.
(3) Release both of the push buttons.
(4) Drive the vehicle on a level surface, away from
large metal objects and power lines, through three or
more complete circles in not less than 48 seconds.
The "CAL" message will disappear from the display
to indicate that the compass is now calibrated.
NOTE: If the "CAL" message remains in the dis-
play, either there is excessive magnetism near the
compass, or the unit is faulty. Repeat the calibration
procedure at least one more time.
NOTE: If the wrong direction is still indicated in the
compass display, the area selected for calibration
may be too close to a strong magnetic field. Repeat
the calibration procedure in another location.
COMPASS DEMAGNETIZING
A degaussing tool (Special Tool 6029) is used to
demagnetize, or degauss, the overhead console for-
ward mounting screw and the roof panel above the
overhead console. Equivalent units must be rated as
continuous duty for 110/115 volts and 60 Hz. They
must also have a field strength of over 350 gauss at 7
millimeters (0.25 inch) beyond the tip of the probe.
To demagnetize the roof panel and the overhead
console forward mounting screw, proceed as follows:
OVERHEAD CONSOLE SYSTEMS 8V - 7