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STARTING THE ENGINE
Read all starting instructions carefully before you start your vehicle.
For temperatures below 0°C (32°F), the use of the correct grade engine
oil is essential for proper operation.
If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, make sure the
parking brake is set fully before you turn the key. Depress the clutch
pedal and place the gearshift in the neutral position. The clutch must be
fully depressed in order to operate the starter. Do not press the
accelerator during starting.
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, ensure the
gearshift lever is in P (Park) and the parking brake is set before you turn
the key. Do not press the accelerator during starting.
COLD WEATHER STARTING
Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds at a time as starter
damage may occur. If the engine fails to start, turn the key to OFF and
wait 30 seconds before trying again.
Do not use starting fluid such as ether in the air intake system (see Air
Cleaner Decal). Such fluid could cause immediate explosive damage to
the engine and possible personal injury.
Do not add gasoline, gasohol or alcohol to Diesel fuel. This practice
creates a serious fire hazard and causes engine performance problems.
1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts. For
more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer toSeating
and safety restraintschapter in the owner guide.
2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off.
3. Turn the key to the ON position. When the WAIT TO START light
goes off, turn the key to START. (For Canadian vehicles, the daytime
running lamps will be on if the parking brake is not applied and the key
is turned to ON.)
•E-Series
•F-250/350/450/550, Excursion
Starting
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SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
The Scheduled Maintenance Services in the scheduled maintenance
guide are required because they are considered essential to the life and
performance of your vehicle.
Use only recommended fuel, lubricants, fluids and service parts
conforming to Ford specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and
built for best performance in your vehicle.
CLEANING THE ENGINE
Engines are more efficient when they are clean because grease and dirt
buildup keep the engine warmer than normal. When washing:
•The engine must be cool to the touch before spraying with water.
•Never spray a hot engine with cold water, as damage to the
engine block or engine components may occur.
•Use caution when using a self-serve power washer (1,000 psi
maximum pressure) to clean the engine, as the high-pressure fluid
could penetrate the sealed parts and cause damage.
•Never apply anything to any exposed belts in the engine
compartment, including the belt dressing.
For general cleaning of the engine and engine compartment, spray
Engine Shampoo (ZC-20) on all parts that require cleaning and pressure
rinse the area with cool water.
Cover the highlighted areas to prevent water damage when cleaning the
engine(never wash or rinse the engine while it is running; water
in the running engine may cause internal damage):
General maintenance information
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IF THE ENGINE RUNS HOT
The following could cause the engine to overheat:
•Lack of coolant.
•Dirty cooling system.
•Plugged radiator fins, charge air cooler, A/C condenser and/or oil
cooler.
•Driving with frozen coolant.
•Sticking thermostat.
•Overloading or pulling heavy trailers during hot weather.
•Grill or radiator air blockage.
•Slipping or missing drive belt.
•Plugged or very dirty air cleaner element.
IF FUSES BURN OUT
Burned-out or blown fuses usually indicate an electrical short-circuit,
although a fuse may occasionally burn out from vibration. Insert a second
fuse. If this fuse immediately burns out and you cannot locate the cause,
return your vehicle to your dealer for a circuit check.
Replacement fuses and circuit breakers must always be the same
rating as the original equipment shown. Never replace a fuse or
circuit breaker with one of a higher rating. Higher rated fuses or circuit
breakers could allow circuit overloading in the event of a circuit
malfunction, resulting in severe vehicle damage or personal injury.
Refer to the“Owner Guide”for replacement of fuses.
Minor troubleshooting guide
47