Page 238 of 321
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 236
*
[SV12300( ALL)05/95]
Comparisons With EPA Estimates
*
[SV12400( ALL)05/95]
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions
and may not reflect the act FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 236
*
[SV12300( ALL)05/95]
Comparisons With EPA Estimates
*
[SV12400( ALL)05/95]
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions
and may not reflect the act](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-237.png)
236
*
[SV12300( ALL)05/95]
Comparisons With EPA Estimates
*
[SV12400( ALL)05/95]
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions
and may not reflect the actual conditions you
experience or your style of driving. The EPA
fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that
you will achieve the fuel economy shown.
*
[SV12650( ALL)05/95]
The following decrease fuel economy:
*
[SV12700( ALL)05/95]
q
Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance
*
[SV12800( ALL)05/95]
q
Rapid acceleration and excessive speed
*
[SV12850( ALL)05/95]
q
Driving with your foot on the brake
*
[SV12900( ALL)05/95]
q
Sudden stops
*
[SV12950( ALL)05/95]
q
Extended engine idling
*
[SV13000( ALL)05/95]
q
Using speed control in hilly terrain
*
[SV13100( ALL)05/95]
q
Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear
window defroster and other accessories
*
[SV13200( ALL)05/95]
q
Underinflated tires
*
[SV13300( ALL)05/95]
q
Heavy loads
*
[SV13400( ALL)05/95]
q
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or
luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc.
*
[SV13510( ALL)02/95]
Self-Service Pointers
*
[SV13520( ALL)01/95]
If you choose to do your own fueling, you
should also perform a few simple maintenance
routines. This extra effort will save you
additional money and contribute to the driving
efficiency of your vehicle.
*
[SV13530( ALL)01/95]
The following procedures require only a tire
gauge, a rag, an oil can spout and windshield
washer fluid.
*
[SV13540( ALL)01/95]
q
Check the engine oil at every refueling stop
*
[SV13550( ALL)01/95]
q
Clean the windshield, outside mirrors and
headlights
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
Page 240 of 321
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 238 %
*
[SV13775( ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800( ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each t FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 238 %
*
[SV13775( ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800( ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each t](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-239.png)
238 %
*
[SV13775( ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800( ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each time you put fuel in
your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
parked on level ground.
%*
[SV13900( ALL)04/95]
Checking the engine oil level:
*
[SV14000( ALL)02/95]
1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up
and allow a few minutes for the engine oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
*
[SV14025( BCGV)03/95]
2. Set the parking brake, making sure the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).
*
[SV14100( ALL)02/95]
3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine
heat.
*
[SV14200( ALL)03/95]
4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in
yellow) and carefully pull it out of the
engine.
*
[SV14300( ALL)01/95]
5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into
position, making sure it is fully seated.
[SV14350( BC )10/95]
one inch art:0011218-A
Engine oil dipstick Ð 4.6 liter engines
[SV14450(MBC )03/95]
one inch art:0000970-A
Engine oil dipstick Ð 3.8 liter engines
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
Page 276 of 321
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 274
*
[SV43300( ALL)08/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the
same amperage rating. To remove a circuit
breaker mounted in the fuse panel, grip it with
your finger and thumb and pull i FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 274
*
[SV43300( ALL)08/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the
same amperage rating. To remove a circuit
breaker mounted in the fuse panel, grip it with
your finger and thumb and pull i](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-275.png)
274
*
[SV43300( ALL)08/95]
If you replace a circuit breaker, use one with the
same amperage rating. To remove a circuit
breaker mounted in the fuse panel, grip it with
your finger and thumb and pull it straight out
of its socket.
%
*
[SV44400( ALL)03/95]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[SV44500( ALL)01/95]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[SV44600( ALL)01/95]
q
headlamps
*
[SV44700( ALL)01/95]
q
tail lamps
*
[SV44800( ALL)01/95]
q
brakelamps
*
[SV44900( ALL)01/95]
q
hazard flasher
*
[SV44950( ALL)02/95]
q
high-mount brakelamp
*
[SV45000( ALL)01/95]
q
turn signals
*
[SV45200( ALL)01/95]
q
license plate lamp
%*
[SV45600( ALL)01/95]
The alignment of your headlamps should be
checked if:
*
[SV45700( ALL)01/95]
q
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to
turn off your vehicle's high beams when you
do not have the high beams on
*
[SV45800( ALL)01/95]
q
the headlamps do not seem to give you
enough light to see clearly at night
*
[SV45900( ALL)01/95]
q
the headlamp beams are pointed substantially
away from a position slightly down and to
the right
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
Page 291 of 321
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 289
*
[SV57600( ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV57700( ALL)01/95]
q
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt,
grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces,
rear wheel housing and underside of front
fenders.
*
[S FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 289
*
[SV57600( ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV57700( ALL)01/95]
q
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt,
grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces,
rear wheel housing and underside of front
fenders.
*
[S](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-290.png)
289
*
[SV57600( ALL)01/95]
Body
*
[SV57700( ALL)01/95]
q
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt,
grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces,
rear wheel housing and underside of front
fenders.
*
[SV57800( ALL)01/95]
q
Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed
locations.
*
[SV57900( ALL)01/95]
q
Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent
rust.
*
[SV58000( ALL)01/95]
q
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.
*
[SV58100( ALL)04/95]
q
Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges
and latches with a light grade oil.
*
[SV58200( ALL)01/95]
q
Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
*
[SV58300( ALL)01/95]
q
Keep all rubber parts free from oil and
solvents.
%*
[SV58350( ALL)01/95]
Engine
*
[SV58400( ALL)01/95]
q
Start engine every 15 days. Run at fast idle
until it reaches normal operating temperature.
*
[SV58500( ALL)01/95]
q
With your foot on the brake, shift through all
the gears while the engine is running.
%*
[SV58600( ALL)01/95]
Fuel system
%*
[SV58700( ALL)07/94]
q
Fill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel
until the first automatic shutoff of the fuel
pump nozzle.
*
[SV58900( 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.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
Page 292 of 321
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 290
*
[SV59000( 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 FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 290
*
[SV59000( 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](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-291.png)
290
*
[SV59000( 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.
%*
[SV59200( ALL)01/95]
Cooling system
*
[SV59300( ALL)01/95]
q
Protect against freezing temperatures.
%*
[SV59400( ALL)01/95]
Battery
*
[SV59500( ALL)01/95]
q
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[SV59600( ALL)01/95]
q
Keep connections clean and covered with a
light coat of grease.
*
[SV59650( ALL)03/95]
q
If storing your vehicle for more than 30 days
without recharging the battery, it may be
advisable to disconnect the battery cables to
ensure battery charge is maintained for quick
starting.
[SV59675( ALL)05/94]
NOTE: If battery cables are disconnected, it
will be necessary to reset memory
features.
%*
[SV59700( ALL)01/95]
Brakes
*
[SV59800( ALL)01/95]
q
Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully
released.
%*
[SV59900( ALL)01/95]
Tires
*
[SV60000( ALL)05/95]
q
Maintain recommended air pressure.
*
[SV60100( ALL)01/95]
Miscellaneous
*
[SV60200( ALL)01/95]
q
Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and
clevis pins under vehicle are covered with
grease to prevent rust.
*
[SV60300( ALL)03/95]
q
Move vehicles at least 25 feet (8 m) every 15
days to lubricate working parts and prevent
corrosion.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
Page 304 of 321

Index 307
Index
A
ABS warning light
(see Anti-lock brake system)....... 58
Accessory position on the ignition..... 45
Additives, engine oil.......... 237
Air bag supplemental restraint system
description............... 18
disposal................ 25
driver air bag............. 18
indicator light............. 60
operation............... 21
proper seating............. 19
tone generator............. 25
wearing safety belts........... 18
Air cleaner filter, location........ 227
Air conditioning
manual heating and air conditioning
system............... 74
semi-automatic temperature control
system............... 77
Alarm, activating remote personal.... 112
Antifreeze (see Engine coolant)...... 240
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
description.............. 173
see also Brake............ 173
warning light.............. 58
Anti-theft lug nuts and key....... 200
Anti-theft system
arming the system.......... 106
description.............. 104
disarming an untriggered system.... 108
disarming a triggered system..... 109
triggering.............. 108
Assistance (see Customer assistance) . . . 203
Audio system
(see Electronic sound system)..... 131
File:rcixb.ex
Update:Thu Feb 15 12:06:08 1996
Page 305 of 321

308 Index
Autolamp system (see Headlamps)..... 84
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic overdrive..... 165
fluid, checking............ 256
fluid, refill capacities......... 285
fluid, specification........... 287
Axle, traction lok............ 170
B
Backing up............... 167
Basic vehicle warranty........... 3
Battery
acid, treating emergencies....... 185
charging system warning light...... 60
disconnecting............. 248
how to service............ 247
jumping a disabled battery....... 185
maintenance-free........... 247
proper disposal, recycling....... 247
replacement, specifications....... 286
voltage gauge.............. 69
when storing your vehicle....... 290
Brake fluid
brake warning light........... 57
specifications............. 287
Brakelamp
bulb replacement........... 279
high-mount brakelamp........ 277
Brakes
adjustment.............. 173
anti-lock............... 173
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light............. 58
applying the brakes.......... 173
brake warning light........... 57
fluid, checking and adding....... 258
fluid, refill capacities......... 259
fluid, specifications.......... 287
File:rcixb.ex
Update:Thu Feb 15 12:06:08 1996
Page 306 of 321

Index 309
Brakes (continued)
front disc.............. 173
new brake linings............ 4
noise................ 174
parking............... 174
trailer................ 183
when storing your vehicle....... 290
Brake-shift interlock........... 166
Break-in period.............. 4
Bulbs, replacing
headlamps.............. 275
specifications............. 279
C
Canada, customer assistance....... 212
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan
(CAMVAP).............. 212
Capacities for refilling fluids....... 285
Carbon monoxide in exhaust........ 51
Car seats for children
(see Child safety seats)......... 27
Cassette tape player
(see Electronic sound system) . . . 141, 150
Catalytic converter........... 280
CD player
(see Electronic sound system)..... 131
Chains, tires.............. 255
Changing a tire............. 191
Charging system gauge.......... 69
Charging system warning light....... 60
Child safety restraints........... 25
child safety belts............ 43
child safety seats............ 27
Child safety seats
and air bags............ 20,27
automatic locking mode (retractor).... 29
in front seat.............. 29
in rear outboard seat.......... 35
in rear seat............... 42
Chime
key in ignition............. 46
File:rcixb.ex
Update:Thu Feb 15 12:06:08 1996