2003 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC Owners Manual

4x2 w/automatic transmission
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR-kg
(lbs.)Trailer Weight
Range-kg
(lbs.)
0-MaximumMaximum
frontal area of
trailer-m
2(ft2)
4.0L
SOHCAll 4354 (9600)0-2404
(0-5300)4.64 (50)
Notes:For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1,000 ft) elevation. For definition of terms and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer toVehicle loadingin this chapter.
Maximum trailer weights shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle and the loaded trailer must not exceed the
GCWR.
Towing a trailer over 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs.) requires a weight
distributing hitch.
4x2 w/manual transmission
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR-kg
(lbs.)Trailer Weight
Range-kg
(lbs.)
0-MaximumMaximum
frontal area of
trailer-m
2(ft2)
4.0L
SOHCAll 3175 (7000)0-1243
(0-2740)4.64 (50)
Notes:For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1,000 ft) elevation. For definition of terms and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer toVehicle loadingin this chapter.
Maximum trailer weights shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle and the loaded trailer must not exceed the
GCWR.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
Driving
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4x4 w/automatic transmission
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - kg
(lbs.)Trailer Weight
Range
(0-Maximum)
-kg(lbs.)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - m
2
(ft2)
4.0L
SOHCAll 4354 (9600)0-2304
(0-5080)4.64 (50)
Notes:For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1,000 ft) elevation. For definition of terms and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer toVehicle loadingin this chapter.
Maximum trailer weights shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle and the loaded trailer must not exceed the
GCWR.
Towing a trailer over 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs.) requires a weight
distributing hitch.
4x4 w/manual transmission
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights
EngineRear
axle
ratioMaximum
GCWR - kg
(lbs.)Trailer Weight
Range
(0-Maximum)
-kg(lbs.)Maximum
frontal area of
trailer - m
2
(ft2)
4.0L
SOHCAll 3175 (7000)0-1143
(0-2520)4.64 (50)
Notes:For high altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 300 meters
(1,000 ft) elevation. For definition of terms and instructions on
calculating your vehicle’s load, refer toVehicle loadingin this chapter.
Maximum trailer weights shown. The combined weight of the
completed towing vehicle and the loaded trailer must not exceed the
GCWR.
Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the
certification label.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
Driving
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Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer
weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in
engine damage, transmission damage, structural damage, loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover 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
Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load
carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that 10% of
the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.
Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over
1,588 kg (3,500 lb).
Safety chains
Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers
of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.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.
Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your
vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough
braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.
The braking system of the towing vehicle is rated for operation at the
GVWR not GCWR.
Trailer lamps
Make sure your trailer lamps conform to local and Federal regulations.
See your dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and
equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.
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Never connect any trailer lighting to the vehicle’s taillamp
circuits, because it may damage the electrical system resulting in
fire. Contact your local Ford dealership for assistance in proper trailer
tow wiring installation. Additional electrical equipment may be
required.
Using a step bumper
The rear bumper is equipped with an integral hitch and requires only a
ball with a 19 mm (3/4 inch) shank diameter. The bumper has a 1,590 kg
(3,500 lb.) trailer weight and 159 kg (350 lb.) tongue weight capability.
Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over 1,590 kg
(3,500 lb).
Driving while you tow
When towing a trailer:
•Turn off your speed control. The speed control may shut off
automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.
•Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.
•Use a lower gear when towing up or down steep hills.
•Anticipate stops and brake gradually.
Servicing after towing
If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more
frequent service intervals. Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide for
more information.
Trailer towing tips
•Practice turning, stopping and backing up 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.
•Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.
•The trailer tongue weight should be no more than 10–15% of the
loaded trailer weight.
•After you have traveled 80 km (50 miles), thoroughly check your
hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.
•When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place
the gearshift in P (Park) (automatic transmissions) or N (Neutral)
(manual transmissions). This aids engine cooling and air conditioner
efficiency.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
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•Vehicles 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:
•do not allow the static water level to rise above the bottom edge of
the rear bumper.
•do not allow waves to break higher than 15 cm (6 inches) above the
bottom edge of the rear bumper.
Exceeding these limits may allow water to enter critical vehicle
components, adversely affecting driveability, emissions, reliability and
causing internal transmission damage. Replace the rear axle lubricant
any time the axle has been submerged in water.
Disconnect the wiring to the trailer before backing the trailer into the
water. Reconnect the wiring to the trailer after the trailer is removed
from the water.
Camper bodies
Your Explorer Sport Trac is not recommended for slide–in camper
bodies.
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.
All vehicles equipped with a manual transmission:
Before you have your vehicle towed:
•Release the parking brake.
•Move the gearshift to the neutral position.
•Turn the key in the ignition to the OFF/UNLOCKED position.
•The maximum recommended speed is 88 km/h (55 mph).
•The maximum recommended distance is unlimited.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
Driving
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4x2 vehicles with an automatic transmission and 4x4 vehicles
with an automatic transmission but without the Neutral tow kit
accessory:
•Release parking brake.
•Place the transmission in N (Neutral).
•Maximum speed is 56 km/h (35 mph).
•Maximum 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 front (on 4x4 vehicles) and rear
driveshafts. Ford recommends the driveshaft(s) be removed/installed
only by a qualified technician. See your local dealer for driveshaft
removal/installation.
Improper removal/installation of the driveshaft can cause
transmission fluid loss, damage to the driveshaft and internal
transmission components.
4x4 vehicles with automatic transmission and the Neutral tow kit
accessory:
•Release the parking brake.
•Place transmission in N (Neutral).
•Engage the neutral tow.
On vehicles equipped with 4WD, an accessory is available that allows you
to tow your vehicle, with unlimited mileage (maximum speed of 88 km/h
[55 mph]) behind another vehicle, with all the wheels on the ground.
Contact your dealer for more details. Do not tow your vehicle with all
wheels on the ground more than 80 km (50 miles) (with a maximum
speed of 56 km/h [35 mph]) unless you install the neutral tow kit as
vehicle damage may occur.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
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GETTING ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
To fully assist you should you 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:
•24–hours, seven days a week
•
for the New Vehicle Limited Warranty period of three years or 60,000 km
(36,000 miles), whichever occurs first on Ford and Mercury vehicles, and
four years or 80,000 km (50,000 miles) on Lincoln vehicles*.
Roadside assistance will cover:
•changing a flat tire
•jump-starts
•lock-out assistance
•limited fuel delivery*
•towing 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 your Owner Information Guide for
information on coverage period and 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.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Emergencies
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Canadian customers who need to obtain reimbursement information, call
1–800–665–2006.
Roadside coverage beyond basic warranty
In the United States, you may purchase additional roadside assistance
coverage beyond this period through the Ford Auto Club by contacting
your Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer.
Similarly in Canada, for uninterrupted Roadside Assistance coverage, you
may purchase extended coverage prior to your Basic Warranty’s Roadside
Assistance expiring. For more information and enrollment, contact
1–877–294–2582 or visit our website at www.ford.ca.
HAZARD FLASHER
The hazard flasher is located on the
steering column, just behind the
steering wheel. The hazard flashers
will operate when the ignition is in
any position.
Push in the flasher control and all
front and rear direction signals will
flash. Press the flasher control again
to turn them off. Use it when your
vehicle is disabled and is creating a
safety hazard for other motorists.
Note:With extended use, the flasher may run down your battery.
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
FUEL
RESET
This device stops the electric fuel pump from sending fuel to the engine
when your vehicle has had a substantial jolt.
After an accident, if the engine cranks but does not start, this switch
may have been activated.
2003 P207 Explorer Sport Trac(p27)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
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