1998 Mercury Villager Owner's Manuals

Vehicle Storage
Maintenance Tips
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an extended period of
time (60 days or more), refer to the following maintenance
recommendations to keep your vehicle in good operating condition.
General
mStore your vehicle in a dry, ventilated place.
mProtect from sunlight, if possible.
mWhen your vehicle is stored outside, it will require regular
maintenance to protect against rust and damage.
Body
mWash your vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, oil, tar
or mud from exterior surfaces, rear wheel housings and
underside of front fenders.
mTouch-up raw or primed metal to prevent rust.
mCover chrome and stainless steel parts with a thick coat of
auto wax to prevent discoloration. Re-wax as necessary
when your vehicle is washed.
mLubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges and latches with
a light grade oil.
mCover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
mKeep all rubber parts free from oil and solvents.
Maintenance and Care
333

Engine
mStart the engine every 15 days. Run it at fast idle until it
reaches normal operating temperature.
mWith your foot on the brake, shift the transaxle into all gears
while the engine is running.
Fuel system
mFill fuel tank with high-quality unleaded fuel until the first
automatic shutoff of the fuel pump nozzle.
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.
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.
A volatile corrosion inhibitor added to the fuel system will
protect the fuel system's inner surfaces from corrosion. Follow
the instructions packaged with the product.
334

Cooling system
mProtect your vehicle against freezing temperatures.
Battery
mCheck and recharge the battery as necessary.
mKeep connections clean and covered with a light coat of
grease.
Brakes
mMake sure the brakes and parking brake are fully released.
Tires
mMaintain recommended air pressure.
Miscellaneous
mMake sure all linkages, cables, levers and clevis pins under
the vehicle are covered with grease to prevent rust.
mLubricate working parts to prevent corrosion.
Maintenance and Care
335

Notes
336

Refill Capacities, Motorcraft Parts, and
Lubricant Specifications
Motorcraft Parts
Capacities and Specifications
337

338

Lubricant Specifications
Automatic
Transmission Fluid
Capacities and Specifications
339

340