My clock doesn't work (stock radio) but when I smack it it turns on for half a second then fades back to black. However, when I smack it it also turns on the airbag light (code 27) but my airbags are fine and the passenger airbag light is working.

I'm thinking of just purchasing a new aftermarket radio and hoping that fixes the problem.

I'm so confused. Why is it flashing code 27? Why does the clock work for a second if I smack it? Why does the airbag light activate when I smack the radio? WTF!

Anyone encounter a problem like this before?

 

In the diagram here for 2002 ranger radio: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...dio_Wiring.pdf

It looks like fuse #29 would be the clock fuse and the light green/violet striped wire is the full time power on the back of the radio.
Clock needs power 24/7 to stay correct, this power is also used to hold radio preset stations in memory.

When the clock comes on for that half second is it the correct time or does it show 12:00?
If time looks correct then issue is IN the radio itself, not a power or ground issue.

Air bag light is probably not related, outside of it having a connection that is effected by hitting the dash, which most likely would be in the switch, and probably won't cause you any problems if you stop hitting the dash :).

Airbag system and radio don't share any grounds or power connections

 

It displays the time.

The airbag light comes up randomly whether or not if I hit the dash or not.

 

If time is correct then problem is IN the radio itself.

Check the airbag switch connector, it is not not related to radio/clock issue.

 

I think you're right. Since the passenger airbag light works I think adding a little extra solder will strengthen the connection so it won't disconnect while I'm driving. I'm pretty sure I'm disconnecting the bulb for half a second when I smack the radio/go over a bump so that's why it's turning the airbag light on.

As for the radio I think I'm going to get a new one. Many of the buttons have stopped working, the clock doesn't work, it lacks a usb connection, and there's no cassette player so there is very little reason to keep it. Maybe I'll pick up some new speakers while I'm at it.. Fixing the radio would be an option if I had the right tool to take it out but honestly I don't think I give that much of a crap about it to spend so much time on it. I'd rather buy a new one. Hopefully I can find one that doesn't look like it came straight out of Tron.

Thanks for all your help.