Page 379 of 444
![FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Explorer
379
[SV37500(ALL)04/94]
7-1/2 pica art:0020382-C
Brake master cylinder
%*
[SV37600(ALL)03/95]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
Check the level of the power steering f FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Explorer
379
[SV37500(ALL)04/94]
7-1/2 pica art:0020382-C
Brake master cylinder
%*
[SV37600(ALL)03/95]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
Check the level of the power steering f](/manual-img/11/4952/w960_4952-378.png)
Servicing Your Explorer
379
[SV37500(ALL)04/94]
7-1/2 pica art:0020382-C
Brake master cylinder
%*
[SV37600(ALL)03/95]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a
year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
%*
[SV37800(ALL)03/95]
Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37900(ALL)02/95]1.
Start the engine and let it run until the power steering fluid
reaches normal operating temperature. The power steering
fluid will be at the right temperature when the engine
coolant temperature gauge in the instrument cluster is near
the center of the NORMAL operating temperature range.
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]2.
While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel back and
forth several times. Make sure that the cap assembly is
installed at this time.
*
[SV38100(ALL)05/95]3.
Turn the engine off.
%*
[SV38200(ALL)03/94]4.
Check the fluid level on the dipstick (which is highlighted in
yellow in your vehicle). The fluid level should be between
the arrows in the FULL HOT range, which is marked on the
side of the dipstick, opposite the side marked FULL COLD.
Do not add fluid if the level is within the FULL HOT range.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996
Page 392 of 444
392
%*
[SV44600(ALL)03/95]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[SV44700(ALL)01/95]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the following lights
frequently:
*
[SV44800(ALL)01/95]
n
headlamps
*
[SV44850(ALL)02/95]
n
high-mount brakelamp
*
[SV44900(ALL)01/95]
n
tail lamps
*
[SV45000(ALL)01/95]
n
brakelamps
*
[SV45100(ALL)01/95]
n
hazard flasher
*
[SV45200(ALL)01/95]
n
turn signals
*
[SV45300(ALL)01/95]
n
license plate lamp
*
[SV45350(ALL)02/95]
n
fog lamps
%*
[SV45400(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if:
*
[SV45500(ALL)01/95]
n
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your
vehicle's high beams when you do not have the high beams
on
*
[SV45600(ALL)01/95]
n
the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see
clearly at night
*
[SV45700(ALL)01/95]
n
the headlamp beams are pointed substantially away from a
position slightly down and to the right
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996
Page 409 of 444
![FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Explorer
409
*
[SV56500(ALL)01/95]
n
If vehicles are stored outside, they require regular
maintenance to protect against rust and damage.
*
[SV56600(ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV56700(ALL)01/95 FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual Servicing Your Explorer
409
*
[SV56500(ALL)01/95]
n
If vehicles are stored outside, they require regular
maintenance to protect against rust and damage.
*
[SV56600(ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV56700(ALL)01/95](/manual-img/11/4952/w960_4952-408.png)
Servicing Your Explorer
409
*
[SV56500(ALL)01/95]
n
If vehicles are stored outside, they require regular
maintenance to protect against rust and damage.
*
[SV56600(ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV56700(ALL)01/95]
n
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or
mud from exterior surfaces, rear wheel housing and
underside of front fenders.
*
[SV56800(ALL)01/95]
n
Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed locations.
*
[SV56900(ALL)01/95]
n
Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent rust.
*
[SV57000(ALL)01/95]
n
Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of
auto wax to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when
the vehicle is washed.
*
[SV57100(ALL)04/95]
n
Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges and latches
with a light grade oil.
*
[SV57200(ALL)01/95]
n
Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
*
[SV57300(ALL)01/95]
n
Keep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents.
%*
[SV57350(ALL)01/95]
Engine
*
[SV57400(ALL)01/95]
n
Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle until it reaches
normal operating temperature.
*
[SV57500(ALL)01/95]
n
With your foot on the brake, shift through all the gears
while the engine is running.
%*
[SV57600(ALL)01/95]
Fuel system
%*
[SV57700(ALL)07/94]
n
Fill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel until the first
automatic shutoff of the fuel pump nozzle.
*
[SV57900(ALL)03/95]
NOTE: During extended periods of vehicle storage (60 days or
more), fuel may deteriorate due to oxidation. This can
damage rubber and other polymers in the fuel system
and may also clog small orifices.
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Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996
Page 410 of 444
![FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual 410
*
[SV58000(ALL)01/95]
Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever actual or
expected storage periods exceed 60 days. Follow the instructions
on the label. The vehicle should then be operated at i FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G Owners Manual 410
*
[SV58000(ALL)01/95]
Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever actual or
expected storage periods exceed 60 days. Follow the instructions
on the label. The vehicle should then be operated at i](/manual-img/11/4952/w960_4952-409.png)
410
*
[SV58000(ALL)01/95]
Ford Gas Stabilizer should be added whenever actual or
expected storage periods exceed 60 days. Follow the instructions
on the label. The vehicle should then be operated at idle speed
to circulate the additive throughout the fuel system.
*
[SV58100(ALL)01/95]
A volatile corrosion inhibitor added to the fuel system will
protect the fuel system's inner surfaces from corrosion. Follow
the instructions packaged with the product.
%*
[SV58200(ALL)01/95]
Cooling system
*
[SV58300(ALL)01/95]
n
Protect against freezing temperatures.
%*
[SV58400(ALL)01/95]
Battery
*
[SV58500(ALL)01/95]
n
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[SV58600(ALL)01/95]
n
Keep connections clean and covered with a light coat of
grease.
%*
[SV58700(ALL)01/95]
Brakes
*
[SV58800(ALL)01/95]
n
Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully released.
%*
[SV58900(ALL)01/95]
Tires
*
[SV59000(ALL)05/95]
n
Maintain recommended air pressure.
*
[SV59100(ALL)01/95]
Miscellaneous
*
[SV59200(ALL)01/95]
n
Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under
vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust.
*
[SV59300(ALL)03/95]
n
Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15 days to
lubricate working parts and prevent corrosion.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996
Page 421 of 444

Index
421
A
Accessory position on the ignition............. 67
Accessory power source, power point outlet....... 204
Additives, engine oil.................. 348
Air bag supplemental restraint system
and child safety seats..............26±27, 52
description.................... 24,28
disposal....................... 32
driver air bag................... 24,28
indicator light..................... 83
operation....................... 28
passenger air bag................. 26,28
proper seating.................... 26
service and information labels............. 28
tone generator.................. 30,32
wearing safety belts.................. 25
Air cleaner filter
location...................... 336
specifications.................... 405
Air suspension, check air ride system warning,
message center................. 100
Alarm, activating remote personal............ 162
All wheel drive.................... 258
Ambulance packages................... 5
Antenna, radio (see Electronic sound system). . . 207, 213, 241
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)............. 352
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)............. 352
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
description..................... 261
noise........................ 263
see also Brake.................... 261
Anti-theft system
arming the system.................. 167
description..................... 167
disarming an untriggered system........... 168
disarming a triggered system............. 168
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Page 423 of 444

423
Index
Brake fluid
brake warning light.................. 81
checking and adding................ 377
description..................... 377
specifications.................... 406
Brakelamp, high-mount brakelamp........... 134
Brakes
adjustment..................... 261
anti-lock...................... 261
applying the brakes................. 265
brake warning light.................. 81
fluid, checking and adding.............. 377
fluid, refill capacities................ 377
fluid, specifications................. 406
front disc...................... 261
if brakes do not grip well.............. 264
master cylinder................... 377
new brake linings................... 5
noise........................ 261
parking...................... 266
power braking................... 261
servicing....................264, 377
stopping distances................265, 267
trailer....................... 290
when storing your vehicle.............. 410
Brake-shift interlock.................. 247
Break-in period..................... 5
Brights (high beams).................91,136
Built-in child seat
cleaning....................... 52
operation....................... 34
Bulbs, replacing.................... 392
halogen...................... 393
headlamps..................... 393
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Page 427 of 444

427
Index
E
Electrical system
fuses......................381, 388
operating when the engine is off............ 67
power point outlet................. 204
relays....................... 389
Electronic message center (see Message center)....... 96
Electronic sound system
accessory delay.................... 67
antenna...................... 213
atenna....................... 213
radio reception................... 241
tuning the radio...............210, 223, 238
warranty and service information........... 243
Electronic stereo cassette radio (see Electronic
sound system)...............209, 222
Electronic stereo radio (see Electronic sound system) . 209, 222
Emergencies, roadside
assistance...................... 317
battery acid spills................295, 373
fuel........................ 344
jump-starting.................... 295
towing....................... 311
Emergency brake (parking brake)............ 266
Emission control system
catalytic converter.................. 399
emissions warranty................ 3,399
Engine
check engine warning light............... 84
does not start................... 72,74
fuel injected engine, starting............70±71
fuel pump shut-off switch............... 74
preparing to start................... 70
service points.................... 336
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Page 432 of 444

432
High beams
indicator light.................... 91
operation....................127, 136
High-mount brakelamp, description........... 134
High-mount brakelamp:location............. 134
Hitch......................... 289
Hood
latch location.................... 335
lubrication specifications............... 406
release lever.................... 335
working under the hood............... 334
Horn......................... 140
Hoses, checking.................... 355
I
Identification Number, Vehicle (VIN).......... 318
Idle
relearning.................298, 334, 372
speed........................ 72
Ignition
chime........................ 68
positions of the ignition................ 67
removing the key................... 68
Indicator lights and chimes (see Lights).......... 79
Infant seats (see Safety seats)............. 32,52
Instrument cluster.................... 79
mechanical...................... 81
Instrument panel
lighting up panel and interior............ 132
location of components............... 109
registers...................... 110
Integrated child seat (see Built-in child seat)........ 34
Interval wipers.................... 136
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996