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Engine Compartment (with Engine Stopped)
Engine OilUse the dipstick to verify the oil level is in the
proper operating range. SeeEngine oil checkin
theMaintenancechapter.
Engine CoolantLook through the plastic reservoir or the clear
sight glass on the reservoir (depending upon
vehicle equipment) and verify the coolant level is
within the proper operating range.Do not
remove the pressure cap until the coolant
has cooled.SeeEngine coolant checkin the
Maintenancechapter.
Power Steering
FluidVerify that the fluid level is in the proper
operating range. SeePower steering fluid check
in theMaintenancechapter.
Brake FluidRemove the master cylinder caps and inspect the
fluid level. SeeBrake fluid checkin the
Maintenancechapter.
Clutch FluidRemove the cap and inspect the fluid level. See
Clutch fluid and linkagein theMaintenance
chapter.
Belts (Fan,
Alternator, Water
Pump and A/C
Compressor)Inspect for glazing, fraying or cracking. There
should be no more than 5-7 cracks per rib, per
inch (2.5 cm).
Fluid LeaksInspect for signs of fluid puddles or dripping fluid
on the ground under the engine, or the underside
of the engine.
HVAC Air InletInspect for debris that may have collected on the
HVAC air inlet grille or inside the exterior module
as this may reduce system performance.
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Engine Starting (Parking Brake Applied)
VoltmeterCheck the gauge (diesel engine) or indicator light
(gasoline engine) to verify the alternator is
charging.
Steering Linkage
Free PlayInspect for excessive free play in the steering
linkages. The steering wheel should have less
than 2 in. (5 cm) of free play at its rim.
Full Power
Hydraulic Brake
InspectionPump the brake pedal several times with the
ignition in the off or run position. The
motor/pumps can be heard momentarily
replenishing the accumulators.
Parking BrakeVerify the parking brake holds the vehicle by
gently trying to pull forward with the parking
brake applied.
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Page 106 of 378

STARTING A DIESEL ENGINE
WARNING:Operation of a diesel engine near flammable vapors
in the air may cause the engine speed to increase uncontrollably
and over speed. If this situation occurs, mechanical damage, fire,
explosion, personal injury or death could result.Turning off the
ignition key does not slow or stop the engine due to uncontrollable
fueling of the engine through flammable vapors being drawn into
the engine air inlet.Operation of components such as starter,
alternator, electric motors, etc. and static electricity could also ignite
flammable vapors.
Do not operate the truck in the possible presence of flammable vapors
unless both a complete hazard analysis is performed and necessary
additional safety processes and/or equipment such as vapor testing, air
intake shutoff devices, ventilation, etc. are utilized. The operator is
responsible for using those processes and/or equipment to ensure that
the diesel engine and all other components on the truck can be
operated safely under the specific conditions and hazards that may be
encountered.
WARNING:If equipped with an air intake heater, DO NOT use
ether or any other starting fluids. The use of starting fluids
(ether) in an engine equipped with an air intake heater could cause an
explosion and result in property damage and/or personal injury.
Switch the ignition on and wait until the glow plug indicator
goes off.
Note:You can only operate the starter for a maximum of 30 seconds at
a time. Allow two minutes before cranking the starter again.
Note:On some engines, the glow plug indicator illuminates after the
engine starts. Allow the engine to idle about three minutes, or until the
engine coolant temperature gauge begins to rise. Maintain idle speed
until the glow plug indicator goes off. Operating the engine at higher
speeds reduces the effectiveness of the air inlet heater.
Note:When starting a cold engine, increase the engine RPM slowly to
make sure adequate lubrication is available to the bearings.
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WARNING:The use of inferior parts can adversely affect the
quality and reliability of your vehicle which, in turn, can result in
property damage, personal injury or death.
To avoid damage to the vehicle’s electrical components prior to electric
welding:
•disconnect both battery cables.
•attach the welder ground cable as close as possible to the part being
welded.
•it is recommended that the component be temporarily removed if
welding close to an electrical component.
Follow the checks and services in theScheduled Maintenancechapter.
Have your dealer or service center inspect your vehicle at least once a
year. Remember that regular maintenance and inspections usually
prevent serious problems from developing later.
If the owner or operator of the vehicle is a skilled technician and intends
on performing the vehicle maintenance and service, he is strongly urged
to purchase a service manual.
Electrical System
Periodically inspect electrical connectors on the outside of the cab and
on the engine and frame for corrosion and tightness. Exposed terminals,
such as the fuel sender, cranking motor, alternator and feed-through
studs, should be cleaned and re-coated with a lubricant sealing grease
such as Motorcraft® Silicone Brake Caliper Grease and Dielectic
Compound XG-3, or equivalent. This should include the ground cable
connector for batteries, engine and cab as well as the jump starting stud.
Accessory Feed Connections
Vehicle electrical systems are complex and often include powertrain
components, such as engine and transmission controls, instrument
panels, ABS, etc. While most systems operate on battery voltage
(12 volts), some systems can be as high as 90 volts or as low as five
volts. See theElectrical Circuit Diagram Manuals,available from your
vehicle’s manufacturer, to make sure that any additional body lights and
accessories are connected to circuits that are both appropriate and not
overloaded. No modification should be made to any vehicle control
system without first contacting your dealer.
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