2000 FORD RANGER brakes

Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain.
Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel
motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not
grip the spokes.
Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as
rocks and stumps.
You should either know the terrain or examine maps of the area before
driving. Map out your route before driving in the area. For more
information on driving off-road, read the ªFour Wheelingº supplement in
your owner's portfolio.
If your vehicle gets stuck
If the vehicle is stuck it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and
reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly
on the accelerator in each gear.
Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage
to the transmission and tires may occur or the engine may
overheat.
Do not spin the wheels at over 56 km/h (35 mph). The tires may
fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid
area of the trail. Do not reduce the tire pressures but shift to a lower
gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly
and avoid spinning the wheels.
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.
Driving
122

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.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Do not drive quickly through standing water, especially if the depth is
unknown. Traction or brake capability may be limited and if the ignition
system gets wet, your engine may stall. Water may also enter your
engine's air intake and severely damage your engine.
If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very
slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the
hubs (for trucks) or the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars).
Once through the 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.
Driving through deep water where the transmission vent tube is
submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause
internal transmission damage.
Driving
124

Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow
1.
Use the appropriate maximum gross combined weight rating (GCWR)
chart to find the maximum GCWR for your type engine and rear axle ratio.
2. Weigh your vehicle as you customarily operate the vehicle without
cargo. To obtain correct weights, try taking your vehicle to a shipping
company or an inspection station for trucks.
3. Subtract your loaded vehicle weight from the maximum GCWR on the
following charts. This is the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow
and must fall below the maximum shown under maximum trailer weight
on the chart.
TRAILER TOWING
Your vehicle may tow a class I, II or III trailer provided the maximum
trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed
for your engine and rear axle ratio on the following charts.
Your vehicle's load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so
you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading a vehicle.
Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle's engine,
transmission, axle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these
components carefully after any towing operation.
Driving
127

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 frame or hook retainers
of 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.
Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.
Trailer brakes
Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are
safe if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer's
specifications. The trailer brakes must meet local and Federal
regulations.
Driving
132

BRAKE FLUID
Checking and adding brake fluid
Brake fluid should be checked and
refilled as needed. Refer to the
Scheduled Maintenance Guide for
the service interval schedules.
1. Clean the reservoir cap before
removal to prevent dirt or water
from entering the reservoir.
2. Visually inspect the fluid level.
3. If necessary, add brake fluid from
a clean un-opened container until
the level reaches MAX. Do not fill
above this line.
4. Use only a DOT 3 brake fluid
certified to meet Ford specifications. Refer toLubricant specifications
in theCapacities and specificationschapter.
Brake fluid is toxic. If brake fluid contacts the eyes, flush eyes
with running water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if
irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention immediately.
If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause
permanent damage to your brakes.
Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This
may cause the brakes to fail.
MAX
Maintenance and care
166

CLEANING AND CARING FOR YOUR VEHICLE
Refer to the Customer Assistance chapter for a list of Ford-approved
cleaners, polishes and waxes.
Washing your vehicle
Wash your vehicle regularly with
cold or lukewarm water. Never use
strong detergents or soap. If your
vehicle is particularly dirty, use a
quality car wash detergent. Always
use a clean sponge, washing glove
or similar device and plenty of water
for best results. To avoid spots,
avoid washing when the hood is still
warm, immediately after or during
exposure to strong sunlight.
During winter months, it is especially important to wash the vehicle on a
regular basis. Large quantities of dirt and road salt are difficult to
remove and also cause damage to the vehicle.
Any gasoline spilled on the vehicle or deposits such as bird droppings
should be washed and sponged off as soon as possible. Deposits not
removed promptly can cause damage to the vehicle's paintwork.
Remove any exterior accessories, such as antennas, before entering a car
wash. If you have wax applied to the vehicle at a commercial car wash, it
is recommended that you clean the wiper blades and windshield as
described inCleaning the wiper blades and windshield.
After washing, apply the brakes several times to dry them.
Waxing your vehicle
Waxing your vehicle on a regular basis will reduce minor scratches and
paint damage.
Wax when water stops beading on the surface. This could be every three
or four months, depending on operating conditions.
Use only carnauba or synthetic-based waxes. Use a cleaning fluid with a
clean cloth to remove any bugs before waxing your vehicle. Use tar
remover to remove any tar spots.
Avoid getting wax on the windshield, or on any surfaces which appear
coarse or bumpy. If you have wax applied at a commercial car wash, it is
Maintenance and care
203

Air bag supplemental
restraint system ..........................84
and child safety seats ..............85
description ................................84
disposal ......................................88
driver air bag ............................86
indicator light ......................10,87
operation ...................................86
passenger air bag .....................86
passenger
deactivation switch ..............25,88
Air cleaner filter .......................209
Air conditioning ..........................19
manual heating and air
conditioning system .................21
Ambulance packages ....................3
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................168
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) .......................107,108
Anti-theft system
warning light .............................11
Audio system (see Radio) .........26
Automatic transmission ............111
driving an automatic
overdrive ..........................112,114
fluid, adding ............................173
fluid, checking ........................173
fluid, refill capacities ..............209
fluid, specification ..................214
Auxiliary power point .................25
Axle
lubricant specifications ...212,214
refill capacities ........................209
traction lok ..............................124
Battery .......................................178
acid, treating emergencies .....178
charging system
warning light .............................11
jumping a disabled battery ....152
maintenance-free ....................178
replacement, specifications ...209servicing ..................................178
voltage gauge ............................17
Belt minder .................................80
Brakes ........................................106
anti-lock .....................106,107,108
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ......................10,108
brake warning light ..................10
fluid, checking and adding ....166
fluid, refill capacities ..............209
fluid, specifications ..........212,214
lubricant specifications ...212,214
parking ....................................108
shift interlock ..........................111
Break-in period .............................2
Capacities for refilling fluids ....209
Cargo area shade ........................63
Cargo net .....................................63
Certification Label ....................217
Child safety restraints ................93
child safety belts ......................93
Child safety seats ........................94
attaching with tether straps ....99
in front seat ..............................96
in rear seat ................................96
tether anchorage hardware .....99
Cleaning your vehicle ...............203
engine compartment ..............204
exterior .............................204,207
exterior lamps .........................206
instrument panel ....................207
instrument panel lens ............207
interior .....................................207
mirrors .....................................208
plastic parts ............................206
safety belts ..............................207
washing ....................................203
waxing .....................................203
wheels ......................................204
windows ..................................208
wiper blades ............................206
Index
231

air bag ........................................10
anti-lock brakes (ABS) .....10,108
anti-theft ...................................11
brake ..........................................10
charging system ........................11
check coolant ............................12
check engine ...............................8
cruise indicator .........................12
door ajar ....................................12
fuel reset ...................................10
high beam .................................11
overdrive off ..............................11
safety belt .................................10
speed control ............................59
turn signal indicator .................11
Load limits .................................125
GAWR ......................................125
GVWR ......................................125
trailer towing ..........................125
Loading instructions .................126
Lubricant specifications ....212,214
Lumbar support, seats ...............71
Manual transmission .................116
fluid capacities ........................209
lubricant specifications ..........214
reverse .....................................118
Mirrors
cleaning ...................................208
side view mirrors (power) .......62
Motorcraft parts .................192,209
Octane rating ............................190
Odometer .....................................16
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................163
Overdrive .....................................59
Panic alarm feature, remote
entry system ................................64
Parking brake ............................108
Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....209
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................144
Power door locks ........................62
Power steering ..........................109fluid, checking and adding ....173
fluid, refill capacity ................209
fluid, specifications ..........212,214
Preparing to
drive your vehicle .....................110
Radio ............................................26
Relays ........................................140
Remote entry system ............63,64
illuminated entry ......................67
locking/unlocking doors ...........64
panic alarm ...............................64
replacement/additional
transmitters ...............................66
replacing the batteries .............65
Safety belts (see Safety
restraints) ...........13,72,73,74,75,76
Safety defects, reporting ..........230
Safety restraints ......72,73,74,75,76
belt minder ...............................80
cleaning the safety belts ...83,207
extension assembly ..................79
for adults ....................73,74,75,76
for children ...............................93
lap belt ......................................78
warning light
and chime ........................10,13,79
Safety seats for children ............94
Seat belts
(see Safety restraints) ...............72
Seats ............................................70
child safety seats ......................94
SecuriLock passive
anti-theft system ...............67,68,69
Servicing your vehicle ..............158
Snowplowing .................................3
Spark plugs,
specifications ...............209,214,215
Special notice ................................3
ambulance conversions ..............3
utility-type vehicles ....................3
Specification chart,
lubricants ............................212,214
Index
234