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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 148
%*
[TO06200(R)01/96]
Starting Your Engine
*
[TO06300(R)01/96]
To start your engine:
*
[TO06400(R)01/96]1.
Follow the steps underPreparing to Start Your Vehicleat the
beginning of this section.
*
[ FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 148
%*
[TO06200(R)01/96]
Starting Your Engine
*
[TO06300(R)01/96]
To start your engine:
*
[TO06400(R)01/96]1.
Follow the steps underPreparing to Start Your Vehicleat the
beginning of this section.
*
[](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-148.png)
148
%*
[TO06200(R)01/96]
Starting Your Engine
*
[TO06300(R)01/96]
To start your engine:
*
[TO06400(R)01/96]1.
Follow the steps underPreparing to Start Your Vehicleat the
beginning of this section.
*
[TO06425(R)01/96]2.
Turn the ignition key to the ON position.
*
[TO06451(R)01/96]3.
DO NOT depress the accelerator pedal when starting your
engine. DO NOT use the accelerator while the vehicle is
parked.
*
[TO06475(R)01/96]4.
Turn the key to the START position (cranking) until the
engine starts. Allow the key to return to the ON position
after the engine has started.
*
[TO06501(R)01/96]
If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering
wheel slightly because it may be binding.
%*
[TO06510(R)01/96]
For a cold engine:
*
[TO06515(R)01/96]
n
At temperatures10ÊF (-12ÊC) andbelow:If the engine does
not start infifteen (15) secondson the first try, turn the key
to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not
flood the engine, then try again.
*
[TO06520(R)01/96]
n
At temperaturesabove10ÊF(-12ÊC):If the engine does not
start infive (5) secondson the first try, turn the key to OFF,
wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the
engine, then try again.
%*
[TO06521(R)01/96]
For a warm engine:
*
[TO06522(R)01/96]
n
Do not hold the key in the START position for more than
five (5) secondsat a time. If the engine does not start within
five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to the OFF
position. Wait a few seconds after the starter stops, then try
again.
*
[TO06575(R)01/96]
Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the
engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.
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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual Starting
153
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[TO10400(R)01/96]
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area
for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch
(2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air co FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual Starting
153
*
[TO10400(R)01/96]
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area
for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch
(2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air co](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-153.png)
Starting
153
*
[TO10400(R)01/96]
If the engine is idling while you are stopped in an open area
for long periods of time, open the windows at least one inch
(2.5 cm). Also, adjust the heating or air conditioning system to
bring in outside air.
[TO10650(R)01/96]
n
HEATING Ð Set fan speed to medium or high, the function
control knob on any position except OFF and the
temperature control knob on any desired position.
[TO10700(R)01/96]
n
AIR CONDITIONING Ð Set fan speed to medium or high
with the function control knob on any position (except OFF
or MAX A/C) and the temperature control knob at a
comfortable level.
*
[TO13076(R)03/96]
Removing the Key From the Ignition
*
[TO13100(R)03/96]
Procedures for removing your key from the ignition will vary,
depending on the type of gearshift your vehicle has. Gearshift
levers may be mounted on the steering column or on the floor
or console.
[TO13117(R)01/96]
If you have a manual transmission, you have a key release lever
which allows you to remove your key from the ignition. The
key release lever is on the upper right of the steering column,
just above the key lock cylinder.
*
[TO13300(R)03/96]
If your vehicle's gearshift lever is mounted on the
column:
*
[TO13400(R)03/96]1.
Put the gearshift in P (Park).
*
[TO13500(R)03/96]2.
Set the parking brake fully before removing your foot from
the service brake. (This will avoid ªbindingº or ªloadingº the
park gear if you park on a grade.)
*
[TO13600(R)03/96]3.
Turn the ignition key to LOCK.
*
[TO13700(R)03/96]4.
Remove the key.
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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 164
*
[GF08742(R)05/96]
Speed limiter
[GF08744(R)05/96]
All models are equipped with a Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) which limits the maximum engine speed and thus road
speed in top gear. Vehicle op FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 164
*
[GF08742(R)05/96]
Speed limiter
[GF08744(R)05/96]
All models are equipped with a Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) which limits the maximum engine speed and thus road
speed in top gear. Vehicle op](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-164.png)
164
*
[GF08742(R)05/96]
Speed limiter
[GF08744(R)05/96]
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.
*
[GF08746(R)05/96]
Power Braking
*
[GF08748(R)05/96]
Increasing the engine speed above idle without vehicle
movement (such as holding the brake) in a forward or reverse
gear causes transmission stall.
*
[GF08749(R)05/96]
NOTE: Continued operation in the stall condition can result
in transmission overheat, malfunction or fluid
expulsion.
*
[GF08752(R)05/96]
Automatic Overdrive Transmission
%*
[GF08755(R)05/96]
Putting Your Vehicle in Gear
[GF08800(R)01/96]
Your vehicle's gearshift is on the steering column. The
transmission control switch is located on the end of the gearshift
lever. You can put the gearshift in any of the several positions.
[GF08915(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0021373-A
The positions of the column-mounted gearshift
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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 186
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[GF20600(R)01/96]
Additional Special Driving Instructions for
4-Wheel Drive Vehicle Operators
*
[GF20701(R)01/96]
Driving on Hill or Slope Terrain
[GF20800(R)03/96]
When driving on a hill, avoi FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 186
%*
[GF20600(R)01/96]
Additional Special Driving Instructions for
4-Wheel Drive Vehicle Operators
*
[GF20701(R)01/96]
Driving on Hill or Slope Terrain
[GF20800(R)03/96]
When driving on a hill, avoi](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-186.png)
186
%*
[GF20600(R)01/96]
Additional Special Driving Instructions for
4-Wheel Drive Vehicle Operators
*
[GF20701(R)01/96]
Driving on Hill or Slope Terrain
[GF20800(R)03/96]
When driving on a hill, avoid driving crosswise or turning on
steep slopes; you could lose traction and slip sideways. Drive
straight up, straight down or avoid the hill completely. Know
the conditions on the other side of a hill before driving over the
crest.
*
[GF20900(R)01/96]
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.
*
[GF21000(R)01/96]
When descending a steep hill avoid sudden braking. Rapid
pumping of the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still
maintain steering control.
*
[GF21101(R)01/96]
Driving on Snow or Ice
[GF21200(R)01/96]
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.
*
[GF21300(R)01/96]
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.
*
[GF21310(R)01/96]
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.
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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 214
*
[GF38800(R)03/96]
When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive
rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift the
automatic transmission gearshift into the 2 (Se FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 214
*
[GF38800(R)03/96]
When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive
rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift the
automatic transmission gearshift into the 2 (Se](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-214.png)
214
*
[GF38800(R)03/96]
When descending a steep grade with a trailer, operate in Drive
rather than Overdrive. If additional braking is needed, shift the
automatic transmission gearshift into the 2 (Second) or 1 (Low)
position.
[GF38925(R)05/96]
Servicing Your Vehicle If You Tow
*
[GF38950(R)05/96]
If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need
to be serviced more frequently than usual. Refer to the
Maintenance Schedulebooklet for additional information.
[GF39000(R)01/96]
Trailer towing tips
*
[GF39100(R)01/96]
Before starting on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing
in an area away from heavy traffic. Get to know the ªfeelº of
the vehicle/trailer combination.
*
[GF39200(R)01/96]
Practice backing up. Back up very slowly, with someone outside
at the rear of your trailer to guide you. Place your hand at the
bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you
want the rear of the trailer to swing. Slight movement of the
steering wheel results in a much larger movement of the rear of
the trailer.
*
[GF39300(R)01/96]
Allow more room for stopping with a trailer attached. Trailer
brakes should be applied first, whether manually or
automatically controlled, when approaching a stop.
*
[GF39400(R)01/96]
For a good handling truck-trailer combination, the trailer tongue
load should be approximately 10-15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
*
[GF39500(R)01/96]
Make a thorough check of your equipment before starting out
on the road. After you have traveled about 50 miles (80 km)
stop in a protected area and double-check your hitch and
electrical connections. Also check trailer wheel lug nuts for
tightness.
*
[GF39600(R)01/96]
When turning, drive slightly beyond the normal turning point
so the trailer wheels will clear curbs or other obstructions.
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Page 268 of 361
![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 268
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[MC22800(R)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC22810(R)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a
year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
%*
[MC22900(R)01/96]
Checking and Add FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 268
%*
[MC22800(R)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC22810(R)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a
year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
%*
[MC22900(R)01/96]
Checking and Add](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-267.png)
268
%*
[MC22800(R)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC22810(R)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a
year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
%*
[MC22900(R)01/96]
Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC22910(R)04/96]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.
*
[MC22912(R)01/96]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.
*
[MC22914(R)01/96]3.
Turn the engine off.
%*
[MC22916(R)01/96]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.
[MC22918(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0021195-A
Power steering dipstick
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Page 269 of 361
Maintenance and Care
269
[MC22930(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica art:0020384-E
Power steering reservoir
[MC22934(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0020383-C
Power steering reservoir
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![FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 270
[MC22936(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0090155-A
Power steering dipstick location
*
[MC22940(R)01/96]5.
If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small
amounts, continuously checking the level, FORD RANGER 1997 2.G Owners Manual 270
[MC22936(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0090155-A
Power steering dipstick location
*
[MC22940(R)01/96]5.
If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small
amounts, continuously checking the level,](/manual-img/11/5332/w960_5332-269.png)
270
[MC22936(R)01/96]
10-1/2 pica
art:0090155-A
Power steering dipstick location
*
[MC22940(R)01/96]5.
If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small
amounts, continuously checking the level, until you reach the
FULL HOT range. Do not overfill.
*
[MC22942(R)03/96]6.
When you are finished, put the dipstick back in and make
sure that it fits snugly.
[MC22944(R)05/96]
Use only power steering fluid that meets Ford specification such
as MERCONHMulti-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX (or equivalent).
*
[MC22946(R)01/96]
If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for
a long period of time before adding fluid. This can damage the
power steering pump.
*
[MC22948(R)03/96]
If you check the power steering fluid when it is cold, make sure
that the fluid reaches the FULL COLD range on the dipstick.
The reading will only be accurate if the fluid temperature is
approximately 50 to85ÊF (10 to 30ÊC).
*
[MC22950(R)01/96]
NOTE: Do not turn the steering wheel of your vehicle with
the engine off. It could force power steering fluid out
from the reservoir cap or in extreme cases, it could
unseat the cap.
File:11unmcr.ex
Update:Thu Mar 20 08:58:43 1997