1998 FORD RANGER automatic transmission

Mud and water
If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake
capability may be limited.
When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher
than the bottom of the hubs (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the
ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall.
Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the
vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving
your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal.
After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts
and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an
imbalance that could damage drive components.
If the transmission and transfer case are submerged in water, their fluids
should be checked and changed, if necessary.
Water intrusion into the transmission may damage the
transmission.
If the rear axle is submerged in water, the rear axle lubricant should be
checked and changed, if necessary. The rear axle is filled with a
synthetic lubricant and does not normally require a lubricant change for
the life of the vehicle. Rear axle lubricant quantities should not need to
be checked unless a leak is suspected.
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
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.
When climbing a steep hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting
to a lower gear from a higher gear once the ascent has started. This
reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling.
When descending a steep hill, avoid sudden braking. Rapid pumping of
the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still maintain steering
control.
When speed control is on and you are driving uphill, your vehicle speed
may drop considerably, especially if you are carrying a heavy load.
If vehicle speed drops more than 16 km/h (10 mph), the speed control
will cancel automatically. Resume speed with accelerator pedal.
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If speed control cancels after climbing the hill, reset speed by pressing
and holding the SET ACCEL button to resume speeds over 50 km/h
(30 mph).
Automatic transmissions may shift frequently while driving up steep
grades. Eliminate frequent shifting by shifting out of
(Overdrive) into
D (Drive).
Driving on snow and ice
A 4WD vehicle has advantages over 2WD vehicles in snow and ice but
can skid like any other vehicle.
Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of direction on
snow and ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and steadily when starting
from a full stop.
When braking, apply the brakes as you normally would. In order to allow
the anti-lock brake system (ABS) to operate properly, keep steady
pressure on the brake pedal.
Allow more stopping distance and drive slower than usual. Consider
using one of the lower gears.
TRACTION-LOK AXLE (IF EQUIPPED)
This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when
one wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions, the
Traction-Lok axle functions like a standard rear axle.
Extended use of other than the manufacturer's specified size tires on a
Traction-Lok rear axle could result in a permanent reduction in
effectiveness. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal driving
and should not be noticeable to the driver.
To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off the
ground, such as when changing a tire.
VEHICLE LOADING
Before loading a vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms:
²Base Curb Weight: Weight of the vehicle including any standard
equipment, fluids, lubricants, etc. It does not include passengers or
aftermarket equipment.
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Trailer tow table (4x4 manual transmission)
Regular Cab (Splash)
3.0L 3.73 2 721 (6 000) 0-1 070 (0-2 360) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 2 721 (6 000) 0-907 (0-2 000) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 3 175 (7 000) 0-1 497 (0-3 300) 4.64 (50)
SuperCab
3.0L 3.73 2 721 (6 000) 0-1 007 (0-2 220) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 2 721 (6 000) 0-907 (0-2 000) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 3 175 (7 000) 0-1 442 (0-3 180) 4.64 (50)
SuperCab (Splash)
3.0L 3.73 2 721 (6 000) 0-998 (0-2 200) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 2 721 (6 000) 0-907 (0-2 000) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 3 175 (7 000) 0-1 424 (0-3 140) 4.64 (50)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1 000 ft.) of elevation.
For definition of terms used in this table, seeVehicle loadingearlier
in this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your vehicle, see
Calculating the loadearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
Trailer towing table (4x2 automatic transmission)
Engine Rear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR-kg
(lbs.)Maximum trailer
weight-kg (lbs.)
(0-maximum)Maximum frontal
area of trailer-m
2
(ft2)
Regular Cab 4x2
2.5L 4.10 2 494 (5 500) 0-1 007 (2 220) Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
3.0L 3.45 3 175 (7 000) 0-1 660 (0-3 660) 4.64 (50)
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 814 (0-4 000) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.08 2 721 (6 000) 0-1 179 (0-2 600) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.55 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 721 (0-6 000) 4.64 (50)
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Trailer towing table (4x2 automatic transmission)
Regular Cab 4x2 (Splash or Special Suspension)
2.5L 3.73 2 449 (5 400) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
3.0L 3.73 2 449 (5 400) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
4.0L 3.08 2 495 (5 500) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
4.0L 3.55 2 495 (5 500) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
SuperCab 4x2
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 796 (0-3 960) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.08 2 721 (6 000) 0-1 080 (0-2 380) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.55 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 676 (0-5 900) 4.64 (50)
SuperCab 4x2 (Splash or Special Suspension)
3.0L 3.73 2 540 (5 600) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
4.0L 3.08 2 586 (5 700) 0-907 (0-2 000)* Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
4.0L 3.55 2 586 (5 700) 0-907 (0-2 000) Equal to frontal
area of base vehicle
*Optional payload is not available on 4x2 Splash or Special Suspension,
therefore maximum trailer weight is 907 kg. (2 000 lbs.).
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1 000 ft.) elevation.
For definition of terms used in this table seeVehicle Loadingearlier
in this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your particular
vehicle, seeCalculating the loadearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
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Trailer tow table (4x4 automatic transmission)
Engine Rear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR-kg
(lbs.)Maximum
trailer
weight-kg (lbs.)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer-m
2(ft2)
Regular Cab
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 741 (0-3 840) 4.64 (50)
3.0L 4.10 3 628 (8 000) 0-1 969 (0-4 340) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 724 (0-3 800) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 631 (0-5 800) 4.64 (50)
Regular Cab (Splash)
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 733 (0-3 820) 4.64 (50)
3.0L 4.10 3 628 (8 000) 0-1 960 (0-4 320) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 706 (0-3 760) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 613 (0-5 760) 4.64 (50)
SuperCab
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 669 (0-3 680) 4.64 (50)
3.0L 4.10 3 628 (8 000) 0-1 896 (0-4 180) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 651 (3 640) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 558 (0-5 640) 4.64 (50)
SuperCab (Splash)
3.0L 3.73 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 660 (0-3 660) 4.64 (50)
3.0L 4.10 3 628 (8 000) 0-1 887 (0-4 160) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.27 3 401 (7 500) 0-1 633 (0-3 600) 4.64 (50)
4.0L 3.73 4 309 (9 500) 0-2 540 (0-5 600) 4.64 (50)
For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1 000 ft.) of elevation.
For definition of terms used in this table, seeVehicle loadingearlier
in this chapter.
To determine maximum trailer weight designed for your vehicle, see
Calculating the loadearlier in this chapter.
Maximum trailer weight is shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle (including hitch, passengers and cargo) and
the loaded trailer must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating
(GCWR).
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86

Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label.
Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer
weight could result in engine damage, transmission/axle damage,
structural damage, loss of control, and personal injury.
Preparing to tow
Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer, and make sure it is
properly attached to your vehicle. See your dealer or a reliable trailer
dealer if you require assistance.
Hitches
For towing trailers up to 907 kg (2 000 lb), use a weight carrying hitch
and ball which uniformly distributes the trailer tongue loads through the
underbody structure. Use a frame-mounted weight distrubuting hitch for
trailers over 907 kg (2 000 lb).
Do not install a single or multi-clamp type bumper hitch, or a hitch
which attaches to the axle. Underbody mounted hitches are acceptable if
they are installed properly. Follow the towing instructions of a reputable
rental agency.
Whenever a trailer hitch and hardware are removed, make sure all
mounting holes in the underbody are properly sealed to prevent noxious
gases or water from entering.
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer's safety chains to the vehicle. To connect the
trailer's safety chains, cross the chains under the trailer tongue and allow
slack for turning corners.
If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency
gives to you.
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type brakes are safe if
installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's specifications. The
trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.
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Trailer towing tips
²Practice turning, stopping and backing up in an area before starting on
a trip to get the feel of the vehicle trailer combination. When turning,
make wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other
obstacles.
²Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
²The trailer tongue weight should be 10±15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
²After you have traveled 80 km (50 miles), thoroughly check your
hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.
²When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place
the gearshift in P (Park) (automatic transmissions) or 1 (First)
(manual transmissions) and increase idle speed. This aids engine
cooling and air conditioner efficiency.
²Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must
park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer's wheels.
Launching or retrieving a boat
When backing down a ramp during boat launching or retrieval,
²Do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of
the rear bumper and
²Do not allow waves to break higher than 15 cm (six inches) above the
bottom edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter critical vehicle
components, adversely affecting driveability, emissions and reliability.
If the rear axle is submerged in water, the rear axle lubricant should be
changed. Axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked unless a leak is
suspected.
Recreational towing (all wheels on the ground)
Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow
your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (such as behind a
recreational vehicle).
These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not
damaged due to insufficient lubrication.
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2WD (automatic transmissions)
²Release the parking brake and place the transmission in N (Neutral).
²Maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph).
²Maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles).
If a distance of 80 km (50 miles) or a speed of 56 km/h (35 mph) must
be exceeded, you must disconnect the driveshaft. Mark the driveshaft
and axle flanges to ensure proper position when reconnecting the
driveshaft. Refer to the ªWorkshop Manualº for proper fastener torque
specifications.
When disconnecting/installing the driveshaft, the parking brake
must be set and the wheels blocked to ensure the vehicle does
not roll.
With the driveshaft disconnected, the maximum speed is 88 km/h
(55 mph) and there are no mileage restrictions.
See your dealer for help with disconnecting the driveshaft.
2WD (manual transmissions)
²Release the parking brake and place the transmission in the neutral
position.
²Maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph).
²Maximum distance is limited by towing equipment manufacturer's
recommendation, unlimited distance.
4WD ± Electronic shift transfer case
²Release the parking brake and place transmission in the neutral
position.
²Shift the transfer case to 2H (2WD high).
Both the 4WD HIGH and 4WD LOW indicator lights in the instrument
cluster will be off when the 4WD control is in 2WD.
For automatic transmissions,maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph)
and maximum distance is 80 km (50 miles).
²If you must exceed the distance or 80 km (50 miles) and/or speed of
56 km/h (35 mph), you must remove the rear driveshaft. Mark the
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