1996 FORD EXPLORER weight

Driving Your Explorer
281
*
[DR32301(ALL)01/95]
If your vehicle exceeds the GVWR, remove cargo from your
vehicle accordingly. If your vehicle exceeds the GAWR for
either axle, shift the load or remove cargo accordingly.
*
[DR32350(ALL)02/95]
RWARNING
If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle
may be damaged or you may lose control and injure
someone.
*
[DR32401(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended
gross trailer weight could result in engine damage,
transmission/axle damage, structural damage, loss of
control, and personal injury.
*
[DR32450(ALL)05/95]
Use the Safety Compliance Certification Label to find the axle
code number and the engine type for your vehicle.
*
[DR32500(ALL)03/91]
Use the appropriate Maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR) chart to find the Maximum GCWR for your type
engine and rear axle ratio.
*
[DR32551(ALL)03/91]
Subtract your Loaded Vehicle Weight from the Maximum
GCWR found in the chart. This is the maximum trailer weight
your vehicle can tow and must fall below the maximum shown
under Trailer Weight on the chart.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
289
%*
[DR36600(ALL)01/93]
Hitches
*
[DR36800(ALL)12/91]
Do not install a single or multi-clamp type bumper hitch, or a
hitch which attaches to the axle. Underbody mounted hitches
are acceptable if installed properly. Follow towing instructions
of a reputable rental agency.
*
[DR37000(ALL)12/92]
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure
all mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to
prevent noxious gases or water from entering.
[DR37100( X)01/95]
Trailer tow/step bumper
[DR37150( X)03/93]
The rear bumper has an integral hitch and only requires a ball
with a 3/4 inch shank diameter. The bumper has a Class II
capability (3500 lb/1590 kg trailer weight and 350 lb/159 kg
tongue weight).
[DR37250( X)01/95]
Use a frame mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over
3,500 lb. (1590 kg).
*
[DR37550(ALL)03/91]
NOTE: The rated capacities (as shown in this guide) for
trailer towing with the factory bumper are only valid
when the trailer hitch ball is installed directly into the
ball hole in the bumper. Addition of bracketry to
either lower the hitch ball position or extend the hitch
ball rearward will significantly increase the loads on
the bumper and its attachments. This can result in the
failure of the bumper or the bumper attachments. Use
of any type of hitch extensions should be considered
abuse.
*
[DR37575(ALL)03/91]
If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball position a
frame mounted trailer hitch must be installed.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

292
*
[DR38925(ALL)08/95]
Servicing Your Vehicle If You Tow
*
[DR38950(ALL)08/93]
If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need
to be serviced more frequently than usual. Refer to the
Maintenance Schedule and Recordbooklet for additional
information.
[DR39000(ALL)08/95]
Trailer towing tips
*
[DR39100(ALL)11/89]
Before starting on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing
in an area away from heavy traffic. Get to know the ªfeelº of
the vehicle/trailer combination.
*
[DR39200(ALL)05/90]
Practice backing up. Back up very slowly, with someone outside
at the rear of your trailer to guide you. Place your hand at the
bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you
want the rear of the trailer to swing. Slight movement of the
steering wheel results in a much larger movement of the rear of
the trailer.
*
[DR39300(ALL)11/89]
Allow more room for stopping with a trailer attached. Trailer
brakes should be applied first, whether manually or
automatically controlled, when approaching a stop.
*
[DR39400(ALL)11/89]
For a good handling truck-trailer combination, the trailer tongue
load should be approximately 10-15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
*
[DR39500(ALL)05/95]
Make a thorough check of your equipment before starting out
on the road. After you have traveled about 50 miles (80 km)
stop in a protected area and double-check your hitch and
electrical connections. Also check trailer wheel lug nuts for
tightness.
*
[DR39600(ALL)11/89]
When turning, drive slightly beyond the normal turning point
so the trailer wheels will clear curbs or other obstructions.
[DR39750(ALL)01/95]
When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather,
place the gearshift selector lever in P (Park) to increase the
engine idle speed. This aids in engine cooling and air
conditioner efficiency. If the engine overheats, rotate the
function selector control knob to panel position to stop the
compressor and increase the engine speed for a short time.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Accessories
329
*
[AC01900(ALL)01/95]
NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and
luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total
weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear
axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label). Consult your dealer
for specific weight information.
*
[AC02000(ALL)05/95]
NOTE: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or
the Canadian Radio Telecommunications Commission
(CRTC) regulates the use of mobile communications
systems Ð such as two-way radios, telephones, and
theft alarms Ð that are equipped with radio
transmitters. Any such equipment installed in your
vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC regulations
and should be installed only by a qualified technician.
*
[AC02100(ALL)01/95]
NOTE: Mobile communications systems may harm the
operation of your vehicle, particularly if they are not
properly designed for automotive use or are not
properly installed. For example, when operated, such
systems may cause the engine to stumble or stall. In
addition, such systems may themselves be damaged or
their operation affected by operating your vehicle.
(Citizens band [CB] transceivers, garage door openers,
and other transmitters whose power output is 5 watts
or less will not ordinarily affect your vehicle's
operation.)
*
[AC02200(ALL)05/95]
NOTE: Because we have no control over the installation,
design, or manufacture of such systems, Ford cannot
assume responsibility for any adverse effects or
damage that may result if you use this equipment.
File:14unacx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:16:06 1996

362
%*
[SV25200(ALL)03/95]
Tires
*
[SV25300(ALL)03/95]
Look at your tires each time you fill your fuel tank. If one tire
looks lower than the others, check the pressure in all of them.
Always follow these precautions:
*
[SV25400(ALL)03/95]
n
Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressures.
*
[SV25500(ALL)02/95]
n
Stay within the recommended load limits (seeLoad limitsin
the Index).
*
[SV25600(ALL)02/95]
n
Make sure the weight of your load is evenly distributed.
*
[SV25700(ALL)10/89]
n
Drive at safe speeds.
*
[SV25800(ALL)01/95]
If you do not take these precautions, your tires may fail or go
flat.
*
[SV25890(ALL)07/95]
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits.
*
[SV25900(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of
loss of vehicle control. Driving at very high speeds for
extended periods of time may result in damage to vehicle
components.
*
[SV26100(ALL)11/89]
At least once a month, check the pressure in all your vehicle's
tires, including the spare. Use an accurate tire pressure gauge.
Check the tire pressure when tires are cold, that is, after the
vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or has been
driven less than 3 miles (5 km). You can find the proper cold
pressure on the Safety Compliance Certification Label.
*
[SV26150(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and
can fail suddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle
control.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996

431
Index
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
calculating..................... 277
definition....................271, 276
driving with a heavy load.............. 271
location....................271, 276
Gearshift
automatic operation................. 246
column-mounted.................. 246
floor-mounted.................... 251
gearshift override.................. 247
locking the gearshift.................. 67
positions....................246, 251
shifting the gears................246, 251
shift-lock...................... 247
Gearshift:shifting the gears.............246, 251
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
calculating..................... 277
definition....................271, 275
driving with a heavy load.............. 271
location...................... 276
H
Hazard flashers.................... 139
Headlamps
aiming....................... 392
autolamp system.................. 128
checking alignment................. 392
cleaning...................... 132
daytime running lights................ 132
flashing...................... 136
high beam..................... 136
replacing bulbs.................392±393
turning on and off................. 127
warning chime.................... 91
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996

441
Index
Trailer towing
calculating maximum trailer weight.......... 277
safety chains.................... 290
trailer brakes.................... 290
trailer lamps.................... 290
Transaxle
automatic operation................. 246
lubricant specifications................ 406
Transaxle control switch................ 248
Transfer case, fluid checking.............. 376
Transmission
automatic operation................. 246
fluid, checking and adding (automatic)........ 374
fluid, checking and adding (manual)......... 376
lubricant specifications................ 406
Transmission control switch.............. 248
Transmitter (see Remote entry)............. 161
Trip odometer...................... 94
Tune-up specifications (VECI).............. 401
Turn signal...................... 135
indicator lights................... 135
lever........................ 135
U
Used engine oil, disposal............334, 351, 375
V
Vanity mirror..................... 190
Variable interval wipers................ 136
VECI (Vehicle Emission Control Information) decal.... 401
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)........... 318
Vehicle loading.................... 272
calculating the load................. 277
understanding loading information.......... 271
Vehicle storage.................... 408
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996

442
Ventilating your vehicle (see Climate control)...... 110
Viscosity (see Engine oil)................ 348
Voltmeter (see Battery voltage gauge)......... 87,89
W
Warm engine, starting.................. 72
Warning chimes
headlamps on.................... 91
key in ignition.................... 68
safety belt...................... 82
Warning lights (see Lights)................ 79
Warranties
basic......................... 3
Canada....................... 3
radio........................ 243
Warranty Information Booklet.............. 3
Washer fluid
rear window reservoir................ 358
reservoir...................... 358
warning light.................... 104
windshield..................... 358
Weight limits (GAWR, GVWR)............. 271
Wheel and tire matching................ 369
Wheel bearings, lubricant specifications......... 406
Wheel bearings lubricant specifications......... 406
Wheel dollies (see Towing)............... 311
Wheels
cleaning...................... 370
covers.....................304, 307
inspection and maintenance............. 362
lug nuts...................... 304
replacement.................... 369
Windows
manual windows, operating............. 171
one-touch down.................. 172
power windows, operating............171±172
rear, defrosting................... 126
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996