![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 78 [IP13900( BC )05/95]
one third page art:0010662-DThe controls for the Semi-Automatic Temperature Control
system
[IP14000( BC )03/95]
System Controls
[IP14100( BC )03/95]
Digital display
[IP14200( B FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 78 [IP13900( BC )05/95]
one third page art:0010662-DThe controls for the Semi-Automatic Temperature Control
system
[IP14000( BC )03/95]
System Controls
[IP14100( BC )03/95]
Digital display
[IP14200( B](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-80.png)
78 [IP13900( BC )05/95]
one third page art:0010662-DThe controls for the Semi-Automatic Temperature Control
system
[IP14000( BC )03/95]
System Controls
[IP14100( BC )03/95]
Digital display
[IP14200( BC )07/93]
The temperature you select for your driving
comfort is displayed here. You can change the
temperature by pressing either the COOL or the
WARM button. You may also display outside
temperature for four seconds by depressing the
OUTSIDE TEMP button.
[IP14300( BC )03/95]
Cool button
[IP14400( BC )07/93]
This button is used to LOWER the temperature
setting. Press the button once to lower the
displayed temperature one degree. Holding the
button in will continuously reduce the
temperature setting in one degree increments
until you either release it or65ÊF (18ÊC) is
reached.
[IP14500( BC )05/94]
If the button is pressed after65ÊF (18ÊC) is
reached, only60ÊF (16ÊC)will be displayed and
the system will provide continuous maximum
cooling.
File:rcipb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:51:01 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 80 [IP15300( BC )05/95]To cool your car quickly in warm weather, turn
the SELECT knob to MAX A/C and turn the
FAN knob to AUTO. As the vehicle interior
cools down, the discharge air temperature and
fa FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 80 [IP15300( BC )05/95]To cool your car quickly in warm weather, turn
the SELECT knob to MAX A/C and turn the
FAN knob to AUTO. As the vehicle interior
cools down, the discharge air temperature and
fa](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-82.png)
80 [IP15300( BC )05/95]To cool your car quickly in warm weather, turn
the SELECT knob to MAX A/C and turn the
FAN knob to AUTO. As the vehicle interior
cools down, the discharge air temperature and
fan speed will automatically and gradually be
changed to maintain the set temperature with
airflow from the instrument panel registers.
[IP15400( BC )07/93]
If the interior of your vehicle is very warm,
drive for the first few minutes with the windows
open. This will force the hot, stale air out and
allow the air conditioning to work faster.
% [IP15500( BC )05/95]
To cool your vehicle with outside air, turn the
SELECT knob to A/C and turn the FAN knob to
AUTO or to a fixed speed setting as you desire.
Cooling your vehicle in this manner provides a
quieter system operation, but it will not cool as
efficiently and is not as fuel efficient as MAX
A/C which uses recirculated air.
[IP15600( BC )05/95]
To ventilate your vehicle with outside air, turn
the SELECT knob to PANEL and the FAN knob
to AUTO. The fan will remain off until the
engine is warm enough to provide heat.
However, if the interior temperature is above the
set temperature, the fan will turn on
immediately. Temperature may be set as desired
and FAN speed can be selected.
[IP15700( BC )07/93]
A/C compressor override
[IP15800( BC )03/94]
The A/C compressor can be disengaged for
more economical driving. This can be done by
turning the SELECT knob to PANEL. The A/C
compressor is automatically engaged by the
control in MAX A/C, NORM A/C, FLOOR &
DEF, and DEFROST positions if the outside
temperature is above45ÊF (7ÊC).
File:rcipb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:51:01 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 172 [DR09793( BCGV)01/95]If the Traction Assist
TM
system is cycled
excessively, the system will shut down to
prevent the rear brakes from overheating.
During this shutdown period, the word OFF in
the FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 172 [DR09793( BCGV)01/95]If the Traction Assist
TM
system is cycled
excessively, the system will shut down to
prevent the rear brakes from overheating.
During this shutdown period, the word OFF in
the](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-174.png)
172 [DR09793( BCGV)01/95]If the Traction Assist
TM
system is cycled
excessively, the system will shut down to
prevent the rear brakes from overheating.
During this shutdown period, the word OFF in
the traction assist switch will be illuminated
showing that the traction assist system is
inoperative. A cooling down period is required
to prevent damage to the rear brakes. This time
period varies and depends on brake usage
during the cooling down period. Anti-Lock
braking is not affected and will function
normally during the cool down period.
[DR09795( BCGV)05/95]
NOTE: Traction-Lok axles are not an available
option on vehicles equipped with
traction assist.
*
[DR09800( ALL)01/95]
Steering Your Vehicle
%*
[DR09900( ALL)01/95]
Your vehicle comes with power steering. Power
steering uses energy from the engine to help
steer your vehicle.
%*
[DR09950( ALL)04/95]
If the amount of effort needed to steer your
vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have
the power steering system checked. If the power
steering system breaks down (or if the engine is
turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually
but it takes more effort.
*
[DR10000( ALL)01/95]
Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme
right or left for more than five seconds if the
engine is running. This can damage the power
steering pump.
[DR10200( BCGV)12/94]
Speed Sensitive Power Steering
(If equipped)
[DR10401( BC )06/94]
The steering system in 4.6L engine vehicles is
speed sensitive. This means that the steering
effort is light for parking and heavier for
highway driving. However, if you have to
swerve around an object or another vehicle, your
steering will have full power assist.
File:rcdrb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:48:37 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 186
*
[RE00900( ALL)05/95]
If the acid touches someones skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lot FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 186
*
[RE00900( ALL)05/95]
If the acid touches someones skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lot](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-188.png)
186
*
[RE00900( ALL)05/95]
If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or
clothing, immediately flush the area with water
for at least 15 minutes. If someone swallows the
acid, have him or her drink lots of milk or water
first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or
vegetable oil. Call a doctor immediately.
*
[RE01000( ALL)03/95]
To avoid damaging your vehicle or your battery,
and to avoid injury to yourself, follow these
directions for preparing your vehicle to jump-start
and connecting the jumper cables in the order they
are given. If in doubt, call for road service.
*
[RE01100( ALL)03/95]
Preparing Your Vehicle
[RE01150( ALL)11/90]
NOTE: also see label on battery.
*
[RE01200( ALL)03/95]
1. Your vehicle has a 12-volt starting system, so
you need to use a 12-volt jumper system.
You will damage your starting motor,
ignition system, and other electrical parts if
you connect them to a 24-volt power supply
(either two 12-volt batteries in series or a
24-volt generator set).
*
[RE01300( ALL)03/95]
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled
vehicle. You could damage the vehicle's
electrical system.
*
[RE01400( ALL)04/95]
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of
the disabled vehicle.Make sure the vehicles
do not touch each other.Set the parking
brake on both vehicles and stay clear of the
engine cooling fan and other moving parts.
*
[RE01500( ALL)03/95]
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any
excessive corrosion before you attach the
jumper cables.
*
[RE01600( ALL)02/95]
5. Turn on the heater fan in both vehicles.
Turning on the fan helps protect the
electrical system from voltage surges. Turn
off all other switches and lights in both
vehicles to prevent possible damage to either
vehicle's electrical systems.
File:rcreb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:48:15 1996 

224vehicle. In addition to the conditions listed in
theOwner Maintenance Checklist, be alert for any
unusual noise, vibration, or other indication that
your vehicle may need service. If you do notice
something unusual, see that your vehicle is
serviced promptly.
*
[SV01275( ALL)03/95]
Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids,
and service parts conforming to Ford
specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and
built to provide the best performance in your
vehicle. Using these parts for replacement is
your assurance that Ford-built quality stays in
your vehicle.
%*
[SV01400( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
%
*
[SV01600( ALL)06/95]
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicle
*
[SV01700( ALL)06/95]
Be especially careful when inspecting or
servicing your vehicle. Here are some general
precautions for your safety:
%*
[SV01800(MBC )10/95]
q
Do not work on a hot engine. The engine
cooling fan may come on unexpectedly.
Always turn the engine off and let it cool.
*
[SV01850(MBC )10/95]
RWARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may
come on at any time. Always disconnect
the negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 240 %
*
[SV16900( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your communitys standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 240 %
*
[SV16900( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your communitys standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-241.png)
240 %
*
[SV16900( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
*
[SV17275( ALL)07/95]
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil
has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
*
[SV17285( ALL)07/95]
Protect your skin by washing with soap and
water.
%
*
[SV17300( ALL)03/95]
Engine Coolant
%*
[SV17400( ALL)09/95]
Checking the Engine Coolant
*
[SV17500( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Be sure to read and understand
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicleat the beginning of this chapter.
*
[SV17600( BCGV)10/95]
RWARNING
The cooling fan is automatic and may
come on at any time. Always disconnect
the negative terminal of the battery before
working near the fan.
%*
[SV17800( ALL)05/94]
Your vehicle's coolant protects your engine from
overheating in the summer and from freezing in
the winter. Check the level of the coolant at least
once a month. Simply look at the engine coolant
reservoir located in the engine compartment. To
locate the reservoir, see the diagram of your
vehicle's engine underEngine Type, in this
chapter.
*
[SV17850( ALL)05/95]
The coolant additives also protect the entire
cooling system from internal passageway
corrosion and these additives lubricate the water
pump. The coolant should be serviced as noted
in theMaintenance Schedule and Recordbooklet.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 242 [SV19000(MBC )05/95]
RWARNING
Never remove the radiator cap or vent
plug while the engine is running or hot.
[SV19030( ALL)05/95]
Follow these steps to avoid personal injury that
can be caused by  FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 242 [SV19000(MBC )05/95]
RWARNING
Never remove the radiator cap or vent
plug while the engine is running or hot.
[SV19030( ALL)05/95]
Follow these steps to avoid personal injury that
can be caused by](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-243.png)
242 [SV19000(MBC )05/95]
RWARNING
Never remove the radiator cap or vent
plug while the engine is running or hot.
[SV19030( ALL)05/95]
Follow these steps to avoid personal injury that
can be caused by escaping steam or engine
coolant.
[SV19040(MBC )03/95]
1. Before you remove the cap, turn the engine
off and let it cool. Even when the engine is
cool, be careful when you remove the
radiator cap or vent plug.
[SV19145( ALL)03/95]
2. When the engine is cool, wrap a thick towel
around the cap and turn it slowly
counterclockwise to unscrew.
*
[SV19150( ALL)09/95]
3. Step back while the pressure releases.
[SV19160( ALL)12/94]
4. When you are sure that all the pressure has
been released, use the cloth to press the cap
down, turn it, and remove it.
*
[SV19170(MBC )09/95]
5. Stand away from the radiator opening. Hot
steam may blow out or hot engine coolant
may even splash out.
*
[SV19190( ALL)09/95]
To find out how much engine coolant mixture
your vehicle's coolant system can hold, seeRefill
capacities for fluidsin the Index.
% [SV19200( ALL)06/95]
Add engine coolant only to the reservoir.If the
coolant level is low, add a 50/50 or appropriate
mixture of water and the type of engine coolant
that Ford specifies. You may add water by itself
only in an emergency, but you should replace it
with a 50/50 or appropriate mixture as soon as
possible.
*
[SV19300( ALL)01/95]
Have your dealer check the engine cooling
system for leaks if you have to add more than a
quart (liter) of engine coolant more than once a
month.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996 
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 243
*
[SV19350( ALL)09/95]
Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an
optimized formula that will protect all metals and
rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four
years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km). FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 243
*
[SV19350( ALL)09/95]
Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an
optimized formula that will protect all metals and
rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four
years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km).](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-244.png)
243
*
[SV19350( ALL)09/95]
Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid is an
optimized formula that will protect all metals and
rubber elastomers used in Ford engines for four
years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km). It is not
necessary and not recommended to use
supplemental coolant additives in your gasoline
powered vehicle. These additives may harm your
engine cooling system. Follow the recommended
service interval for changing your engine coolant.
*
[SV19450( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: When you change or add engine
coolant, it is important to maintain
your engine coolant concentration
between 40%(-11ÊF [-24ÊC]) and 60%
(-62ÊF [-52ÊC]),depending on your local
climate conditions. Below 40% you will
lose freeze protection and above 60%
your engine may overheat on a warm
day.
[SV19460( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: The use of an improper coolant may
void your warranty for the engine
cooling system. Use only a premium
nationally recognized brand name
engine coolant. Do not use alcohol,
methanol antifreeze or engine coolant
mixed with alcohol or methanol
antifreeze. If you do not use the proper
coolant, the aluminum radiator on your
vehicle will corrode.
*
[SV19470( ALL)09/95]
Ford Motor Company expressly authorizes the
Ford Rotunda engine coolant recycling process
and chemicals. Use only Ford Rotunda recycled
engine coolant or an equivalent recycled engine
coolant that is certified by the supplier to meet
Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A.
%*
[SV19480( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996