Air brakes
Inspection and adjustment
A regular schedule for periodic cleaning, lubrication and adjustment
inspection should be established based on the type of vehicle operation.
It is difficult to predetermine an exact maintenance interval (time or
mileage), since vehicles will be used in a wide variety of applications and
conditions. If you are uncertain of the proper schedule and procedures
for your vehicle, contact your dealer.
Periodic checking of push rod travel or brake adjustment is essential for
effective braking. Push rod travel should be checked every service
interval to determine if adjustment is correct. Brake chamber push rods
on original equipment chambers now incorporate a stroke indicator to
aid in adjustment checks; an orange paint marker near the base of the
push rod. If the push rod is clean and the brakes are out of adjustment,
the orange marker can be seen protruding from the chamber when the
brakes are applied.
WARNING:Do not manually adjust the automatic slack
adjusters to correct excessive push rod stroke as it may result in
reduced brake effectiveness and a vehicle crash. Excessive push rod
stroke indicates that a problem exists with the automatic adjuster, with
the installation of the adjuster, or with foundation brake components
that manual adjustment will not remedy. Seek service from a qualified
facility for excessive push rod stroke.
Inspect the brake lining every maintenance interval. When brake lining or
blocks are worn to within 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of rivets, brake lining must
be replaced. This inspection or adjustment should only be performed by
a qualified technician and must be in accordance with instructions
provided by the service manual.
Do not back off or disconnect the front brakes so that they are less
effective, letting the rear brakes do all the stopping of the vehicle. Do
not overlook the brakes on the trailer, either. Brake condition on the
trailer is just as important as the tractor. Proper brake balance on trucks
and tractor-trailers is essential for effective braking.
Once a year, the entire brake system must be inspected. Check the
following:
•Any rubber as it may deteriorate whenever used. Rubber brake
components should be inspected by a qualified technician and
replaced as necessary. Replacement intervals vary according to the
severity and length of vehicle service.
Maintenance and Specifications
186
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
•Condition of brake drums, brake chambers and slack adjusters.
•System for air leaks.
•Hose or pipes for rust, damage and deterioration.
•Operation of service and parking brakes.
Some parts such as air brake chamber diaphragm, air compressor and air
cleaner should be inspected periodically and replaced if considered
unserviceable.
Air dryer
Performance of desiccant or after-cooler type air dryers is dependent on
climatic conditions in which your vehicle is operating. Maintenance
schedules must be established for each specific operation.
The use of an air dryer on a vehicle does not eliminate the need to
periodically drain the air reservoirs.
Desiccant air dryer
Inspect for moisture in the air system by opening reservoirs, draincocks
or valves and checking for presence of water. The presence of small
amounts of water due to condensation is normal and should not be
considered as an indication that the dryer is not functioning properly.
The desiccant cartridge should be replaced or rebuilt when it has been
determined that the desiccant is contaminated and does not have
adequate water absorption capacity. The desiccant change interval may
vary; it is generally recommended that the desiccant be replaced every
12 months (yearly). If experience has shown that extended or shortened
life has resulted for a particular installation, then the yearly interval can
be increased or decreased accordingly.
Hydraulic brakes
Inspection and adjustment
A regular schedule for periodic cleaning, lubrication, adjustment and
inspection should be established based on the type of vehicle operation.
It is difficult to predetermine an exact maintenance interval (time or
mileage), since vehicles will be used in a wide variety of applications and
conditions. If you are uncertain of the proper schedule and procedures
for your vehicle, contact your dealer.
Inspect the brake lining every maintenance interval. Establish inspection
intervals that provide for lining replacement before damage to the disc
occurs. Excessive lining wear may expose the backing plate to the disc
causing scoring of the disc faces.
Maintenance and Specifications
187
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
2. Visually inspect the fluid level; the level should be at the bottom of
the fill ports.
3. If necessary, add brake fluid from a clean unopened container until the
level reaches the bottom of the fill ports. Do not fill above this line.
4. Use only a DOT 3 brake fluid certified to meet manufacturer
specifications. Refer toLubricant specificationsin this chapter.
WARNING: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.
WARNING:If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will
cause permanent damage to your brakes.
WARNING:Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run
dry. This may cause the brakes to fail.
CLUTCH FLUID/LINKAGE ADJUSTMENTS
Clutch fluid (if equipped)
Check the clutch fluid level. Refer to theScheduled Maintenance
Guidechapter for the service interval schedules.
During normal operation, the fluid level in the clutch reservoir should
remain constant. If the fluid level drops, maintain the fluid level at the
step in the reservoir.
Use only a DOT 3 brake fluid designed to meet manufacturer
specifications. Refer toLubricant specificationsin this chapter.
WARNING:Carefully read cautionary information on product
label. For MEDICAL EMERGENCY INFORMATION, contact a
physician or Poison Control Center immediately; on Ford-Motorcraft
products call: 1-800-959-3673 (FORD). Failure to follow these
instructions may result in personal injury.
Maintenance and Specifications
216
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
Draining and refilling the rear axle lubricant
1. Drain the rear axle while the lubricant is warm.
2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Set the parking brake and shift into N (Neutral) (automatic
transmission) or 1 (First) (manual transmission) and turn the engine off.
4. Clean any dirt from around the rear axle filler and drain plugs.
5. Remove the filler and drain plugs and drain the lubricant into a
suitable container. Dispose of all used automotive fluids in a responsible
manner following your local authorized standards.
6. Clean and install the drain plug securely.
7. Add enough lubricant through the filler plug opening so that the
lubricant level is up to the bottom of the opening.
8. Clean and install the filler plug securely.
WHEELS
General
Wheel bearings should be inspected, lubricated and adjusted at regular
intervals. This is especially important if operating in deep sand, mud, or
water. Refer toLubricant specificationsin this chapter.
When installing wheel balance weights, they must be mounted on the
dome-side of the wheel only. Failure to do so may result in loss of wheel
weight and/or damage to brakes or wheels.
Important:Remember to replace the wheel air valves when the road
tires are replaced at the end of their useful life.
Oil-lubricated front wheel bearings
During normal vehicle duty cycle, the lube and air inside the hub/wheel
cavity expands and if not vented, causes pressure build-up that could
cause accelerated seal wear.
There are two venting methods:
•a slit or small hole in the rubber check vent or
•the window
You can use either of these methods to prevent pressure build-up.
Maintenance and Specifications
224
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
Daily owner checks
U.S. Department
of Transportation,
Federal Highway
Administration
requirements
(ensure that the
entire system is
functioning
properly)Service brakes
Parking brake
Steering mechanism
Lighting devices and reflectors
Tires
Horn
Windshield wipers
Rear vision mirrors
Wheels and rims
Emergency equipment
Every oil change
EngineInspect engine cooling system hoses, clamps and
protection.*
Inspect drive belts.
Exhaust systemInspect entire exhaust system (including the
inlet pipe(s), muffler(s), outlet pipe(s), clamps
and fasteners) for holes, leakage, breakage,
corrosive damage and separation from other
components. Adjust, service or replace with the
same or the equivalent part. (Also a noise
emission control service.)
SuspensionTighten the front and rear spring U-bolts to the
specified torque.
Driveline and rear
axleLubricate the U-joints and the slip yoke.
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
256
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
Every oil change
BrakesLubricate the air brake foot control valve, hinge
and roller.
Inspect the drum brake linings through the
inspection holes.
Lubricate the rear caliper slide rails.
Lubricate the brake camshafts (air brakes only).
Lubricate the brake slack adjuster (air brakes
only).
Inspect the disc brake pads and the piston boots
(hydraulic brakes only).
ClutchLubricate the clutch release cross shaft and all
linkages.
Check the clutch fluid level.
Fuel systemDrain the accumulated water or sediment from
the fuel tank(s).
Steering systemLubricate the steering shaft(s), U-joints and
splines if equipped with grease fittings.
Lubricate the front axle spindle pins.
Lubricate the steering linkage when equipped
with grease fittings.
Lubricate the power steering gear output shaft.
* Coolant protection checks should be made just prior to the onset of
freezing weather, where applicable. If coolant is dirty or rusty in
appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and refilled with the
prescribed solution of cooling system fluid and distilled water. Use only
permanent type coolant that meets specifications as listed in your
engine operator’s manual. See the engine manufacturer’s operating
guide for supplemental corrosion inhibitor specifications.
Periodic component/system checks
The following are vehicle checks that should be made periodically either
by the owner or a qualified technician. It is recommended that
deficiencies be brought to the attention of your dealer or another
qualified service outlet as soon as possible in order that advice regarding
the need for service or replacement can be obtained.
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
257
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
Maintenance operation Frequency/Observation
Inspect the automatic slack
adjuster functionInsufficient power shown in loaded
practice stop.
Check the operation of the
brakes, the clutch, and the
steering
(1),(2)
Vehicle handling qualities not up to
par.
Inspect the vehicle for missing,
damaged, or mislocated noise
shieldsExcessive noise emanates from under
the cab or engine compartment.
Check the engine performance
and the engine governorExcessive engine noise.
Inspect the fan, the fan shroud,
and the fan clutchEngine overheats, fan runs at high
speed constantly, excessive fan noise,
or fan wobble due to worn bearings.
Check for operation of ABS
warning lampAt each engine start up.
Inspect the entire exhaust
system (including inlet pipe,
muffler, outlet pipe and all
exhaust clamps and fasteners)
for holes, leakage, breakage,
looseness and corrosive
damageExcessive noise or the smell of fumes
is experienced.
Inspect the engine air
induction system (including the
air ducts and the air filter) for
loose fitting, damaged or
missing componentsExcessive noise emanates from the
engine compartment.
Inspect the tires and check the
air pressure
(3)Poor steering, wandering or excessive
tire wear.
Balance the wheels and the
tiresVibration or abnormal tire wear
indicates imbalance.
Check the front end alignment
(3)Poor steering, wandering or excessive
tire wear.
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
258
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)
appropriate mileage for replacement of oils and fluids to protect your
vehicle at the lowest overall cost to you and recommends against
maintenance schedules that deviate from the scheduled maintenance
information.
The maintenance or replacement of the emission control devices (or
systems) in your new Ford Motor Company vehicle (or engine) may be
performed at your expense. These services may be performed by any
automotive repair establishment or individual using automotive parts
equivalent to those with which your vehicle or engine was originally
equipped. If any parts other than Ford, Motorcraft, or Ford-authorized,
remanufactured parts are used for maintenance replacements (or for the
service) of components effecting the emission control, the owner should
be ensured that such parts are warranted by their manufacturer to be
equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company parts in performance and
durability. Please consult yourWarranty Guidefor complete warranty
information.
Air brake adjustment
WARNING:Failure to maintain proper air brake adjustment can
result in reduction or loss of braking ability.
Air brake inspection and adjustment or repairs should be performed by a
qualified service technician in accordance with the instructions in the
service manual.
Cam brakes - automatic slack adjusters
Inspect standard air brakes equipped with automatic slack adjusters for
proper brake adjustment as listed in the maintenance schedule charts.
However, more frequent inspection is required if your vehicle’s brakes
are subjected to heavy use or adverse operating conditions such as:
•Frequent brake applications while fully loaded.
•Operation on hilly or mountainous terrain.
•Frequent operation on dirt, gravel or mud.
Some aftermarket brake linings also require more frequent inspections.
WARNING:Do not manually adjust the automatic slack
adjusters to correct excessive push rod stroke as it may result in
reduced brake effectiveness and a vehicle crash. Excessive push rod
stroke indicates that a problem exists with the automatic adjuster, with
the installation of the adjuster, or with foundation brake components
that manual adjustment will not remedy. Seek service from a qualified
facility for excessive push rod stroke.
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
263
2011 F-650/750(f67)
Supplement, 2nd Printing
USA(fus)