2002 FORD RANGER flat tire

Pull the release lever to release the
brake. Driving with the parking
brake on will cause the brakes to
wear out quickly and reduce fuel
economy.
STEERING
Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy
from the engine to help steer the vehicle.
To prevent damage to the power steering pump:
²Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left
for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.
²Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level
(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).
If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.
If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of
the following:
²underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)
²uneven vehicle loading
²high crown in center of road
²high crosswinds
²wheels out of alignment
²loose or worn suspension components
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.BRAKE
RELEASE
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151

4WD Systems (if equipped)
4WD (when you select the 4WD mode), uses all four wheels to power
itself. This increases traction, enabling you to drive over terrain and road
conditions that a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle can't.
Power is supplied to all four wheels
through a transfer case. On 4WD
vehicles, the transfer case allows
you to select 4WD when necessary.
Information on transfer case
operation and shifting procedures
can be found in theDriving
chapter. Information on transfer
case maintenance can be found in theMaintenance and specifications
chapter. You should become thoroughly familiar with this information
before you operate your vehicle.
Normal characteristics
On some 4WD models, the initial shift from two-wheel drive to 4x4 while
the vehicle is moving can cause some momentary clunk and ratcheting
sounds. This is the front drivetrain coming up to speed and the
automatic locking hubs engaging and is not cause for concern.
Sand
When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid
area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower
gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly
and avoid spinning the wheels.
If you must reduce the tire pressure for whatever reason in sand, make
sure you re-inflate the tires as soon as possible.
Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you
and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may
be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back
out the way you came if you proceed with caution.
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167

Never drive with chains on the front tires of 4WD vehicles without also
putting them on the rear tires. This could cause the rear to slide and
swing around during braking.
Tires, Replacement Requirements
4WD vehicles are equipped with tires designed to provide for safe ride
and handling capability.
Do not use a size and type of tire and wheel other than that originally
provided by Ford because it can affect the safety and performance of
your vehicle, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or roll over and
serious injury. Make sure all tires and wheels on the vehicle are of the
same size, type, tread design, brand and load-carrying capacity. If you
have questions regarding tire replacement, see an authorized Ford or
Lincoln/Mercury dealer.
If you nevertheless decide to equip your 4WD for off-road use with tires
larger than what Ford recommends, you should not use these tires for
highway driving.
If you use any tire/wheel combination not recommended by Ford, it may
adversely affect vehicle handling and could cause steering, suspension,
axle or transfer case failure.
Do not useºaftermarket lift kitsº or other suspension modifications,
whether or not they are used with larger tires and wheels.
These ªaftermarket lift kitsº could adversely affect the vehicle's handling
characteristics, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or roll over
and serious injury.
Tires can be damaged during off-road use. For your safety, tires that are
damaged should not be used for highway driving because they are more
likely to blow out or fail.
You should carefully observe the recommended tire inflation pressure
found on the safety compliance certification label attached to the left
front door lock facing or door latch post pillar. Failure to follow tire
pressure recommendations can adversely affect the way your vehicle
handles. Do not exceed the Ford recommended pressure even if it is less
than the maximum pressure allowed for the tire.
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171

Each day before you drive, check
your tires. If one looks lower than
the others, use a tire gauge to check
pressure of all tires, and adjust if
required. Check tire pressure with a
tire gauge every few weeks
(including spare). Safe operation
requires tires that are neither
underinflated nor overloaded.
Periodically inspect the tire treads and remove stones, nails, glass or
other objects that may be wedged in the tread grooves. Check for holes
or cuts that may permit air leakage from the tire and make necessary
repairs.
Inspect the tire side walls for cuts, bruises and other damage. If internal
damage to the tire is suspected, have the tire demounted and inspected
in case it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Maintenance and Modifications
The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed
and tested to provide both reasonably safe, predictable performance
whether loaded or empty and durable load carrying capability. For this
reason, Ford strongly recommends that you do not make modifications
such as adding or removing parts (such as lift kits or stabilizer bars) or
by using replacement parts not equivalent to the original factory
equipment.
Any modifications to a vehicle that raise the center of gravity can make
it more likely the vehicle will roll over as a result of a loss of control.
Ford recommends that caution be used with any vehicle equipped with a
high load or device (such as ladder racks or pickup box cover).
Failure to maintain your vehicle properly may void the warranty, increase
your repair cost, reduce vehicle performance and operational capabilities
and adversely affect driver and passenger safety. Frequent inspection of
vehicle chassis components is recommended if the vehicle is subjected to
heavy off-road usage.
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172

GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
To fully assist if you should have a vehicle concern, Ford Motor Company
offers a complimentary roadside assistance program. This program is
separate from the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. The service is available:
²24±hours, seven days a week
²for the Basic warranty period (Canada) or New Vehicle Limited
Warranty period (U.S.) of three years or 60 000 km (36 000 miles),
whichever comes first on Ford and Mercury vehicles, and four years or
80 000 km (50 000 miles) on Lincoln vehicles
Roadside assistance will cover:
²changing a flat tire
²jump-starts
²lock-out assistance
²limited fuel delivery*
²towing of your disabled vehicle to the nearest Ford Motor Company
dealership, or your selling dealer if within 25 kms (15.5 miles) of the
nearest Ford Motor Company dealership (one tow per disablement).
Even non-warranty related tows, like accidents or getting stuck in the
mud or snow, are covered (some exclusions apply, such as impound
towing or repossession).
* Canadian customers refer to yourRoadside Assistance supplement
for exact fuel amounts.
USING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Complete the roadside assistance identification card and place it in your
wallet for quick reference. In the United States, this card is found in the
Owner Guide portfolio in the glove compartment in Ford vehicles and is
mailed to you if you own a Mercury or Lincoln. In Canada, the card is
found in the Roadside Assistance book in the glove compartment.
U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicle customers who require roadside assistance,
call 1±800±241±3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1±800±521±4140.
Canadian customers who require roadside assistance, call 1±800±665±2006.
If you need to arrange roadside assistance for yourself, Ford Motor
Company will reimburse a reasonable amount. To obtain reimbursement
information, U.S. Ford or Mercury vehicles customers call
1-800-241-3673; Lincoln vehicle customers call 1±800±521±4140.
Canadian customers who need to obtain reimbursement information, call
1±800±665±2006.
Roadside Emergencies
187

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPower Distribution Box
Description
44 Ð Not Used
45A Ð Wiper High/Low
45B Ð Wiper Park/Run
46A Ð Fuel Pump
46B Ð Trailer Tow
47A Ð A/C Clutch Solenoid
47B Ð Front Washer Pump
48A Ð Fog Lamps
48B Ð Fog Lamp Relay
51 Ð Not Used
52 Ð Not Used
53 Ð Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Diode
54 Ð Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
55 Ð Blower
56 Ð Starter
* Mini Fuses ** Maxi Fuses
CHANGING THE TIRES
If you get a flat tire while driving, do not apply the brake heavily.
Instead, gradually decrease your speed. Hold the steering wheel firmly
and slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road.
Temporary spare tire information
Your vehicle is equipped with a conventional spare tire that may be
different in size (smaller diameter and narrower width) than other tires
on your vehicle. If this is the case, your spare tire is considered
ªtemporaryº and the spare wheel will be labeled as such. Replace this
tire with a tire of the same size, speed rating and load carrying capacity
as the other road tires as soon as possible.
It is not recommended that the vehicle be operated in 4WD modes with
a ªtemporaryº (i.e. dissimilar size) spare. If 4WD operation is necessary,
do not operate above speeds of 16 km/h (10 mph) or for distances above
80 km (50 miles).
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200

3. Insert the straight end of the jack
handle into the rear access hole
located just above the rear bumper
and below the tailgate.
Forward motion will stop and
resistance to turning will be felt
when properly engaged.
4. Turn the handle counterclockwise
until tire is lowered to the ground
and the cable is slightly slack.
5. Remove the retainer from the spare tire.
Stowing the spare tire
1. Lay the tire on the ground with the valve stem facing up.
2. Install the retainer through the
wheel center and slide the wheel
under the vehicle.
3. Turn the spare handle clockwise
until the tire is raised to its original
position underneath the vehicle. The
spare handle ratchets when the tire
is raised to the stowed position. It
will not allow you to overtighten.
4. If your vehicle is equipped with P265/75 R15 AT tires, do not stow a
flat or inflated full size spare tire in the spare tire carrier. The flat full
size tire should be stowed and tied down in the pickup box bed until it
can be repaired.
5. If removed, install the spare tire carrier lock on the access hole above
the bumper.
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203

8. Replace the flat tire with the spare tire, making sure the valve stem is
facing outward. Reinstall the lug nuts until the wheel is snug against the
hub. Do not fully tighten the lug nuts until the wheel has been lowered.
9. Lower the wheel by turning the jack handle counterclockwise.
10. Remove the jack and fully
tighten the lug nuts in the order
shown.
11. Stow the flat tire. Refer to
Stowing the spare tire.
12. Stow the jack and lug wrench.
Make sure the jack is fastened so it
does not rattle when you drive.
13. Unblock the wheels.
JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames,
sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or
vehicle damage.
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can burn skin, eyes, and
clothing, if contacted.
Do not attempt to push-start your vehicle. Automatic
transmissions do not have push-start capability; also, the
catalytic conveter may become damaged.
Preparing your vehicle
When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, the
transmission must relearn its adaptive strategy. As a result of this, the
transmission may shift firmly. This operation is considered normal and
will not affect function or durability of the transmission. Over time, the
adaptive learning process will fully update transmission operation to its
optimum shift feel.
1.Use only a 12±volt supply to start your vehicle.
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle as this could
damage the vehicle's electrical system.
1
4 3
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