![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 49
*
[ST10473( ALL)04/95]
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key
as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking
could damage the starter or flood the engine.
*
[ST10476( ALL)04/95]
After y FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 49
*
[ST10473( ALL)04/95]
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key
as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking
could damage the starter or flood the engine.
*
[ST10476( ALL)04/95]
After y](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-51.png)
49
*
[ST10473( ALL)04/95]
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key
as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking
could damage the starter or flood the engine.
*
[ST10476( ALL)04/95]
After you start the engine, let it idle for a few
seconds. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and
put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the
parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal
and drive away in the normal manner.
[ST10478( ALL)12/94]
NOTE: Your vehicle has an interlock that
prevents you from shifting out of
P (Park) unless your foot is on the
brake pedal.
%*
[ST10480( ALL)04/95]
If the engine does not start after two attempts:
*
[ST10492( ALL)04/95]
1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
*
[ST10494( ALL)04/95]
2. Press the accelerator all the way to the floor
and hold it.
*
[ST10496( ALL)04/95]
3. Turn the ignition key to the START position.
*
[ST10497( ALL)04/95]
4. Release the ignition key when the engine
starts.
*
[ST10498( ALL)04/95]
5. Release the accelerator gradually as the
engine speeds up. Then drive away in the
normal manner.
*
[ST10500( ALL)04/95]
If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump
shut-off switch may have been triggered. For
directions on how to reset the switch seeFuel
Pump Shut-Off Switchlater in this chapter.
%*
[ST11100( ALL)04/95]
A computer system controls the engine's idle
speed. When you start your vehicle, the engine's
idle speed normally runs higher than when it's
warmed up. These faster engine speeds will
make your vehicle move slightly faster than its
normal idle speed. It should, however, slow
down after a short time. If it does not, have the
idle speed checked.
File:rcstb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:52:09 1996
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 53
%*
[ST17100( ALL)03/95]
If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start or Does Not Start After
a Collision
%*
[ST17110( ALL)04/95]
Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
*
[ST17200( ALL)03/95]
If the engine cranks but FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 53
%*
[ST17100( ALL)03/95]
If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start or Does Not Start After
a Collision
%*
[ST17110( ALL)04/95]
Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
*
[ST17200( ALL)03/95]
If the engine cranks but](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-55.png)
53
%*
[ST17100( ALL)03/95]
If the Engine Cranks but Does
Not Start or Does Not Start After
a Collision
%*
[ST17110( ALL)04/95]
Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
*
[ST17200( ALL)03/95]
If the engine cranks but does not start or does
not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off
switch may have been triggered. The shut-off
switch is a device intended to stop the fuel
pump when your vehicle has been involved in a
substantial jolt.
*
[ST17400( BCGV)01/95]
Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must
reset the switch by hand before you can start
your vehicle. The switch is on the left side of the
trunk.
[ST17700( BC )05/94]
one third page art:0010013-E
The fuel pump shut-off switch
*
[ST18700( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the
switch or try to start your vehicle. Have
all the passengers get out of the vehicle
and call the local fire department or a
towing service.
File:rcstb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:52:09 1996
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 201
*
[RE13500(MBC )03/95]
Replacing the anti-theft lug nut
*
[RE13600(MBC )03/95]
Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Place the
lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and, while
applying pressure o FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 201
*
[RE13500(MBC )03/95]
Replacing the anti-theft lug nut
*
[RE13600(MBC )03/95]
Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Place the
lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and, while
applying pressure o](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-203.png)
201
*
[RE13500(MBC )03/95]
Replacing the anti-theft lug nut
*
[RE13600(MBC )03/95]
Insert the key over the locking lug nut. Place the
lug nut wrench over the lug nut key and, while
applying pressure on the key, install the lug nut.
*
[RE13800( ALL)02/95]
If the Engine Cranks But Does
Not Start or Does Not Start After
a Collision
*
[RE13810( ALL)04/95]
The Fuel Pump Shut-off Switch
*
[RE13900( ALL)03/95]
If the engine cranks but does not start or if you
have had a collision, the fuel pump shut-off
switch may have been triggered. The shut-off
switch is a device that stops the fuel pump
when your vehicle has been involved in a
substantial jolt.
*
[RE14000( ALL)01/95]
For information on how to check and reset the
fuel pump shut-off switch, seeFuel pump shut-off
switchin the Index.
%
*
[RE14100( ALL)05/95]
Towing Your Vehicle
*
[RE14201( ALL)05/95]
If you need to have your vehicle towed, contact
a professional towing service or, if you are a
member, your roadside assistance center.
Recommended towing options include wheel lift
towing or flat bed towing.
[RE14210( BC)01/96]
DO NOT TOW WITH SLINGBELT EQUIPMENT
WHEN TOWING YOUR THUNDERBIRD FROM
THE REAR. Ford Motor Company has not
developed or approved a T-hook sling-type
procedure. When slingbelt towing from the front,
the towbar will deform the soft fascia (bumper).
However, it will return to an acceptable shape.
In both cases, wheel lift or flatbed equipment is
recommended.
File:rcreb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:48:15 1996
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 230 %
*
[SV05850( ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the Engine
*
[SV06000( ALL)04/95]
A clean engine is more efficient because a
buildup of grease and dirt acts as an insulator,
keeping the engine warmer than usual FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 230 %
*
[SV05850( ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the Engine
*
[SV06000( ALL)04/95]
A clean engine is more efficient because a
buildup of grease and dirt acts as an insulator,
keeping the engine warmer than usual](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-231.png)
230 %
*
[SV05850( ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the Engine
*
[SV06000( ALL)04/95]
A clean engine is more efficient because a
buildup of grease and dirt acts as an insulator,
keeping the engine warmer than usual.
*
[SV06020( ALL)07/95]
q
Extreme care must be used if a power washer
is used to clean the engine. The high pressure
fluid could penetrate sealed parts and
assemblies causing damage or malfunctions.
*
[SV06040( ALL)08/95]
q
In order to avoid possible cracking of the
engine block or fuel injection pump, do not
spray a hot engine or injection pump with
cold water.
*
[SV06060( ALL)07/95]
q
The alternator, distributor and air intake must
be covered. Covering these components will
help prevent water damage.
*
[SV06080( ALL)04/95]
q
Never wash or rinse the engine while it is
running. Water getting into the engine may
cause internal damage.
%
*
[SV06100( ALL)03/95]
Filling the Fuel Tank
*
[SV06240(MBC )05/95]
The fuel door is outside the car on the passenger
side near the back. To fill the fuel tank:
*
[SV06550( ALL)05/95]
1. After opening the fuel filler door, remove
the cap carefully and slowly by turning it
counterclockwise 1/2 to 3/4 turn.
*
[SV06650( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound while disengaging
the fuel cap, wait until it stops before
completely removing the cap. Otherwise,
fuel may spray out and injure you or
others.
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 231
*
[SV06700( ALL)05/95]
2. Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe before pumping the fuel.
*
[SV06800( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of
your vehicle, clean it o FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 231
*
[SV06700( ALL)05/95]
2. Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe before pumping the fuel.
*
[SV06800( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of
your vehicle, clean it o](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-232.png)
231
*
[SV06700( ALL)05/95]
2. Put the nozzle all the way inside the fuel
filler pipe before pumping the fuel.
*
[SV06800( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: If you spill any fuel on the body of
your vehicle, clean it off immediately.
The fuel may dull or soften the paint
if you do not wash it off.
%*
[SV06850( ALL)08/95]
3. Replace the fuel cap completely when you
are finished. Turn it clockwise 1/4 turn until
it is tight. It will click when it is fully
tightened.
*
[SV06875( ALL)10/95]
4. Push the fuel door closed.
[SV06900( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with a
Motorcraft or equivalent fuel cap. If you
do not use the proper fuel cap, the
pressure in the fuel tank can damage the
fuel system or cause it to work improperly
in a collision, endangering you and your
passengers.
*
[SV06950( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
%*
[SV07500( ALL)06/95]
Choosing the Right Fuel
[SV07600( ALL)02/96]
Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded
fuel is prohibited by law and could damage
your vehicle. The damage may not be covered
by your warranty.
[SV07701( ALL)02/96]
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel
containing manganese-based additives such as
MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to
California emission standards (indicated on the
underhood Vehicle Emissions Control
Information label) are designed to operate on
California reformulated gasolines. If California
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
![FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 235 %
*
[SV11300( ALL)05/95]
Running Out of Fuel
*
[SV11350( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
situation may have an adverse effect on
modern powertrain components.
*
[SV11500( A FORD THUNDERBIRD 1996 10.G Owners Manual 235 %
*
[SV11300( ALL)05/95]
Running Out of Fuel
*
[SV11350( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
situation may have an adverse effect on
modern powertrain components.
*
[SV11500( A](/manual-img/11/5382/w960_5382-236.png)
235 %
*
[SV11300( ALL)05/95]
Running Out of Fuel
*
[SV11350( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: Avoid running out of fuel because this
situation may have an adverse effect on
modern powertrain components.
*
[SV11500( ALL)07/95]
You may need to crank the engine several times
before the fuel system starts to pump fuel from
the tank to the engine.
[SV11600( ALL)05/95]Calculating Fuel Economy
*
[SV11700( ALL)05/95]
Fuel economy is an estimate of the efficiency of
your vehicle, and can be calculated as Miles Per
Gallon (MPG) or Liters Per 100 Kilometers
(L/100K).
*
[SV11750( ALL)05/95]
Do not calculate fuel economy during your
vehicle's break-in period. This would not be an
accurate estimate of how much fuel your vehicle
will normally use.
*
[SV11800( ALL)05/95]
To calculate fuel economy:
*
[SV11900( ALL)05/95]
1. Fill the fuel tank completely and record the
initial odometer reading.
*
[SV12000( ALL)05/95]
2. Every time you buy fuel, record the
amount (in gallons or liters) purchased.
*
[SV12100( ALL)05/95]
3. After at least 3-5 tankfuls, fill the fuel tank
and record the final odometer reading.
*
[SV12200( ALL)10/95]
4. Use these equations to calculate your fuel
economy:
*
[SV12250( ALL)10/95]
q
English: MPG = (total miles driven)v
(gallons used)
*
[SV12275( ALL)10/95]
q
Metric: L/100k = (liters used)v
(100 kilometers)
File:rcsvb.ex
Update:Mon Feb 19 10:46:54 1996
![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

312 Index
Emergency brake (parking brake)..... 174
Emission control system,
catalytic converter........... 280
Engine
check engine warning light....... 63
does not start.............. 49
fuel injected engine, starting....... 47
fuel pump shut-off switch........ 53
preparing to start............ 47
service points............. 227
starting................. 48
starting after a collision......... 53
storing your vehicle.......... 289
Engine block heater............ 50
Engine coolant
checking and adding......... 240
checking hoses............ 241
disposal............... 243
low coolant warning light........ 72
preparing for storage......... 290
proper solution............ 242
recovery reservoir........... 240
refill capacities............ 285
specifications............. 287
Engine coolant temperature gauge
description............... 66
mechanical............... 66
Engine fan............... 224
Engine oil
changing oil and oil filter....... 239
checking and adding......... 238
dipstick............... 238
disposal............... 240
engine oil pressure gauge........ 69
filter, specifications.......... 286
refill capacities............ 285
specifications............. 287
synthetic oil............. 237
ªbreak-inº oils............. 5
viscosity............... 237
File:rcixb.ex
Update:Thu Feb 15 12:06:08 1996