1996 FORD EXPLORER engine

Driving Your Explorer
261
*
[DR20900(ALL)11/89]
When climbing a steep hill, start in a lower gear, rather than
finding it necessary to downshift from a higher gear after the
ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the
possibility of stalling.
*
[DR21000(ALL)11/89]
When descending a steep hill avoid sudden braking. Rapid
pumping of the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still
maintain steering control.
*
[DR21101(ALL)11/89]
Driving on Snow or Ice
*
[DR21200(ALL)12/95]
A four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle has advantages
over two-wheel drive vehicles in snow and ice but can skid like
any other vehicle. If so equipped, keep the vehicle in four-wheel
drive if icy or slippery conditions exist.
*
[DR21300(ALL)11/89]
Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of
direction on snow or ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and
steadily when starting from a full stop.
*
[DR21310(ALL)05/95]
All utility-type and Four-Wheel Drive vehicles have special
design and equipment features to make them capable of
performing in a wide variety of off-road applications. Specific
design characteristics give them higher centers of gravity than
ordinary passenger cars.
*
[DR21325(ALL)08/95]
RWARNING
Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are NOT designed
for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any
more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform
satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp
turns or abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles.
%*
[DR21400(ALL)03/95]
Brakes
*
[DR21500(ALL)01/93]
Front Disc Brakes
*
[DR21600(ALL)06/95]
The front disc brakes are self-adjusting. They do not require
service other than periodic inspection for pad wear.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
263
*
[DR22920(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
The Anti-lock system does NOT assist the vehicle in
stopping quickly on wet or icy surfaces. Heavy braking
combined with poor road conditions could cause you to
lose steering control of your vehicle.
*
[DR22925(ALL)10/94]
Using anti-lock brakes
*
[DR22930(ALL)05/94]
The operation of a vehicle with 4WABS is not similar to the
operation of normal brakes. Some differences exist and are listed
below:
*
[DR22935(ALL)10/94]
n
Apply the brake steadily. In the event of a panic stop, do
NOT ªpumpº the brakes. ªPumpingº the brakes during an
Anti-lock stop will diminish braking effectiveness.
%*
[DR22940(ALL)10/94]
n
During an Anti-lock stop, the driver will notice a brake
pedal pulsation and hear some noise from the engine
compartment. This is an indication that the 4WABS system is
working correctly and is normal.
*
[DR22945(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
The Anti-lock system does NOT decrease the time
necessary to apply the brakes. Always leave enough room
between the vehicle in front of you and your vehicle.
*
[DR22950(ALL)05/95]
4WABS driver warning light
[DR22955(ALL)10/94]
The 4WABS computer continuously monitors the system while
driving for any electrical faults or system malfunctions. In
addition, the 4WABS computer performs an initial system check
called bulb proveout when the vehicle ignition is switched on.
During bulb proveout, the ABS light on the instrument cluster
will momentarily illuminate and then go out.
*
[DR22960(ALL)09/95]
NOTE: After starting the vehicle and upon initial drive-off,
the driver may notice a single pulse of the brake
pedal and a noise from the engine compartment. This
is part of the initial system check and is normal.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
265
*
[DR23500(ALL)07/92]
If Brakes Pull
*
[DR23600(ALL)05/95]
n
Check tire pressure.
[DR23710( X)07/95]
n
If pull occurs during the first 500 miles (800 km), make 10
moderatley fast stops from 40 mph (64 km/h). It may be
necessary to repeat this operation to properly seat new
brakes.
*
[DR23800(ALL)05/95]
If pull occurs during the first 500 miles (800 km), make 10
moderately fast stops from 40 mph (65 km/h) and then
perform the self-adjustment procedure above. It may be
necessary to repeat this operation to properly seat new brake
linings and pads.
%*
[DR24000(ALL)01/93]
Stopping Distances
*
[DR24100(ALL)11/89]
Stopping distances vary with different loads and driving
conditions. Use caution when encountering new conditions and
acquaint yourself with vehicle performance. Take full advantage
of engine braking power when slowing down.
%*
[DR24200(ALL)01/95]
Applying the Brakes
*
[DR24300(ALL)05/95]
Apply the brake pedal gradually. Use the ªsqueezeº technique
Ð push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This
allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing
down, which lets you steer properly.
*
[DR24400(ALL)07/95]
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. This
will increase your vehicle's stopping distance and may also
cause brake damage.
*
[DR24500(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a
lower gear. Do not apply your brakes continuously, as
they may overheat and become less effective.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

268
*
[DR25350(ALL)03/95]
Operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Sudden
acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of these
maneuvers can cause a vehicle to behave differently than
anticipated.
*
[DR25501(ALL)02/95]
Wheel Spin
*
[DR25550(ALL)11/92]
n
Extreme acceleration can cause the rear wheels to spin,
perhaps resulting in reduced steering control.
[DR26350(ALL)12/92]
If the wheels spin, use 2 (Second gear) to gain traction. Move
forward slowly and evenly. If this does not work, try rocking
the vehicle.
*
[DR26401(ALL)05/91]
For 4x4 vehicles, engage 4WD, and try to drive away.
%*
[DR26550(ALL)05/90]
High Speed Driving
*
[DR26590(ALL)07/95]
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits.
*
[DR26601(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.
*
[DR26625(ALL)12/91]
Speed limiter
[DR26652(ALL)01/95]
All models are equipped with a Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) which limits the maximum engine speed and thus road
speed in top gear. Vehicle operation is normal since the
controlled maximum speed is above posted highway speeds in
North America.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

270
*
[DR27601(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off
the ground, such as when changing a tire.
%*
[DR27651(ALL)01/95]
High water
*
[DR27675(ALL)06/92]
Never attempt to cross water that is fast flowing or of unknown
depth.
*
[DR27701(ALL)05/90]
Do not drive through flooded areas unless you are sure that the
water is below the bottom of the wheel hubs.
*
[DR27750(ALL)04/94]
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. You may
have limited traction or wet brakes, so allow extra stopping
distance because your vehicle will not stop as quickly as usual.
*
[DR27801(ALL)01/95]
After you drive through the standing water, apply your brakes
gently several times as your vehicle moves slowly. This helps to
dry the brakes.
*
[DR27820(ALL)06/95]
NOTE: If the transmission and transfer case is submerged in
water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if
necessary.
*
[DR27825(ALL)03/93]
NOTE: All rear axle lube quantities must be replaced every
100,000 miles (160,000 km) or if the axle has been
submerged in water. Otherwise, the lube should not
be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or
repair required.
*
[DR27850(ALL)11/89]
Rocking the vehicle
*
[DR27901(ALL)05/90]
For 4x4 vehicles, engage 4WD LOW, when the vehicle gets
stuck and try to drive away.
*
[DR27950(ALL)05/95]
If your vehicle gets stuck (for example, in mud or snow), you
may rock it out of the spot. Shift in a steady rhythm between
forward and reverse gears. Allow the transmission to fully
engage, then press lightly on the accelerator. Do not rock the
vehicle for more than a few minutes. This may overheat the
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
271 engine and transmission, causing damage to both. In addition,
other vehicle systems and components may also be damaged.
*
[DR27975(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (55 km/h). The
tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
%*
[DR28050(ALL)03/95]
Driving With a Heavy Load
*
[DR28101(ALL)01/95]
There are limits to the amount of weight your vehicle can carry
or tow. The total weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of the
passengers and cargo, should never be more than the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Also, the weight that your
vehicle carries over the front axle and rear axle should never be
more than the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the
respective axle.
*
[DR28150(ALL)08/95]
The weight limits of your vehicle's tires affect the GVWR or
GAWR limitations. Usage of replacement tires with higher
weight limits than originals does not increase GVWR or GAWR.
Usage of lower capacity replacement tires may lower GVWR
and GAWR limitations.
*
[DR28201(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.
*
[DR28750(ALL)01/93]
Vehicle/Trailer Loads
*
[DR28801(ALL)06/92]
All vehicles may tow a Class I trailer provided the Gross
Combined Weight (GCW) is less than or equal to the GVWR
shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. For heavier
trailer applications, refer to the towing information found later
in this chapter.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

272
%*
[DR28950(ALL)02/95]
Trailer Towing (may require trailer tow option package)
*
[DR29001(ALL)03/91]
Towing a trailer puts additional loads on your vehicle's engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. For your safety
and for the good of your vehicle, use the right equipment for
the type of trailer you tow.
*
[DR29025(ALL)09/92]
Your trailer towing capability will vary based on the standard
and optional equipment on your vehicle. Refer to the following
Vehicle Loading/Towing Informationand the Trailer Towing Tables
to determine the specific towing capability of your vehicle.
*
[DR29050(ALL)02/92]
n
Stay within the load limits when you tow.
*
[DR29101(ALL)01/95]
n
Carefully and thoroughly prepare your vehicle for towing,
making sure to use the right equipment and to attach it
properly. (SeePreparing to Towin this chapter.)
*
[DR29151(ALL)01/95]
n
Use extra caution when driving your vehicle while you tow.
(SeeDriving while you towin this chapter.)
*
[DR29201(ALL)01/95]
n
Service your vehicle more frequently if you tow a trailer.
(SeeServicing your vehicle if you towin this chapter.)
*
[DR29350(ALL)05/94]
Do not tow a trailer until your vehicle has been driven at least
500 miles (800 km).
%*
[DR29401(ALL)06/92]
Vehicle Loading/Towing Information
*
[DR29450(ALL)03/91]
Your vehicle's load capacity is designated by weight, not
volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space with
large or heavy loads. Maximum safe vehicle weights as well as
tire, rim sizes and inflation pressures are specified for your
vehicle at the assembly plant on the Safety Compliance
Certification Label. The Certification Label is located on the left
front door lock facing or the door latch post pillar.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
277
*
[DR31120(ALL)06/92]
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)
*
[DR31130(ALL)06/92]
GCWR is the maximum combined weight of the towing
vehicle (including passengers and cargo) and the loaded trailer.
The GCWR is specified by the manufacturer to indicate the
combined maximum loaded weight that the vehicle is designed
to tow.
*
[DR31140(ALL)06/92]
Maximum Trailer Weight Rating
*
[DR31150(ALL)05/95]
The maximum trailer weight rating is the maximum weight of a
trailer the vehicle is permitted to tow. It is specified by the
manufacturer and is determined by subtracting the vehicle curb
weight for each engine/transmission combination, any required
option weight for trailer towing and the weight of the driver
from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.
*
[DR31160(ALL)06/92]
Maximum Trailer Weight
*
[DR31170(ALL)05/95]
The maximum trailer weight is the maximum weight of a trailer
the loaded vehicle is permitted to tow. It is determined by
subtracting the weight of the loaded towing vehicle (including
passengers and cargo) from the GCWR for the towing vehicle.
*
[DR31180(ALL)06/92]
Trailer Weight Range
*
[DR31190(ALL)06/92]
The trailer weight range is a specified range by weight, which
the trailer must fall within, ranging from zero to the maximum
trailer weight rating.
%*
[DR31301(ALL)03/91]
Calculating The Load
*
[DR31350(ALL)03/91]
To know how much weight your vehicle can carry:
*
[DR31401(ALL)12/91]
n
Obtain ratings from your Safety Compliance Certification
Label, and the Trailer towing specifications in the owner
guide (refer to the Index)
*
[DR31450(ALL)07/95]
Ð Refer to the following sample illustration to locate the
various ratings on your Safety Compliance Certification
Label.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996