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STARTING THE ENGINE
Read all starting instructions carefully before you start your vehicle.
For temperatures below 32°F(0°C), 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
When operating in cold weather, use a minimum of 45 Cetane Diesel fuel
or use Cetane Index improvers from a reputable manufacturer.
Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds as starter damage
may occur. If the engine fails to start, turn the key to 3 (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.
Note:Do not add gasoline, gasohol or alcohol to diesel fuel. This
practice creates a serious fire hazard and causes engine performance
problems.
1. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without
turning the key to 5 (START).Do
not start the engineuntil the
glow-plug pre-heat indicator
turns off.
3
2
1
5
4
Driving
Driving
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F-Super Duty/Excursion
1. Automatic transmission dipstick (if equipped)
2. Engine oil fill
3. Engine oil filter
4. Engine-mounted fuel filter assembly
5. Engine coolant reservoir
6. Brake fluid reservoir
7. Clutch fluid reservoir (if equipped)
8. Underhood relay box
9. Battery (dual batteries shown)
10. Power steering fluid reservoir
11. Air filter assembly
12. Engine oil dipstick
13. Windshield washer fluid reservoir
Maintenance and Specifications
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out, the battery connections may be loose or corroded, or the battery
may be discharged. If there is a clicking or stuttering sound coming from
the engine compartment when you turn the key to 5 (START), this may
also indicate a loose or corroded battery connection.
Check the battery connections at the battery posts, cable connection to
the engine grounding point and at the starter connection.
If a discharged battery is suspected, have it checked and corrected.
•For vehicles with manual transmissions,the clutch pedalmustbe
fully depressed in order for the starter to operate.
•For vehicles with automatic transmissions,the gearshift lever
must be in P (Park) or N (Neutral) in order for the starter to operate.
•Try operating the starter switch several times. Should the switch be
corroded, this operation may clean the contacts or make the switch
temporarily operable until you can reach the dealer.
•If all electrical connections are tight and you need assistance to start,
refer toJump startingin theRoadside Emergencieschapter of your
Owner Guide(F-Super Duty and Excursion) or refer to theJump
startingsection of this supplement (E-Series).
If engine cranks but won’t start
Prolonged starter cranking (in excess of 30 seconds) could cause
damage to the starter motor.
•Check the fuel gauge. You may be out of fuel. If the gauge shows that
there is fuel in the tank, the trouble may be in the electrical system or
the fuel system. If equipped with an auxiliary tank, be sure that the
tank control switch is set for the tank with fuel and not on an empty
tank.
•Leaving the ignition key turned to 4 (ON) for over two minutes
without starting may make starting difficult because the glow plugs
will cease activation. Reset the system by turning the ignition key to 3
(OFF) and then back to 4 (ON) again.
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.
Maintenance and Specifications
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•Check power steering fluid level
•Check washer spray, wiper operation and clean all wiper blades
(replace as necessary)
•Check parking brake for proper operation
•Check and lubricate all hinges, latches and outside locks
•Check and lubricate door rubber weatherstrips
•Check and clean body and door drain holes
•Check safety warning lamps (brake, ABS, air bag, safety belt) for
operation
•Check cooling system fluid level and coolant strength
•Check battery connections and clean if necessary
•Check clutch fluid level, if equipped
Multi-point Inspection
In order to keep your vehicle running right, it is important that you have
the systems on your vehicle checked regularly. This can help identify any
potential issue before there are any problems. Ford Motor Company
suggests the following multi-point inspection to be performed at every
scheduled maintenance as the way to ensure your vehicle keeps running
right.
Multi-point inspection - Recommended at every visit
•Check and top up fluid levels: brake, coolant recovery reservoir,
manual and automatic transmission, power steering and window
washer.
•Inspect tires for wear and check air pressure, including spare.
•Check exhaust system for leaks, damage, loose parts and foreign
materials.
•Check battery performance.
•Check operation of horn, exterior lamps, turn signals and hazard
warning lights.
•Check radiator, coolers and heater and air conditioning hoses.
•Inspect windshield washer spray and wiper operation.
•Check windshield for cracks, chips and pitting.
•Inspect for oil and fluid leaks.
•Inspect air cleaner filter.
General Owner’s Information
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