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. Refer toEngine oil specifications
in theMaintenancechapter for more information.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a cold weather starting strategy that
prevents severe engine damage by assisting in engine lubrication
warm-up. In extremely cold ambient temperatures, this strategy activates
and prevents the accelerator pedal from being used for 30 seconds after
starting the vehicle. By not allowing the accelerator pedal to be used, the
engine oil is allowed to properly lubricate the bearings preventing engine
damage due to lack of proper lubrication. After the 30 second warm-up
period, the accelerator pedal will be operational again as long as the
pedal is not being pressed when the 30 second time limit expires. When
starting the engine in extremely cold temperatures (-15°F [–26°C]), it is
recommended to allow the engine to idle for several minutes before
driving the vehicle.
Make sure the gearshift lever is in P (Park) and the parking brake is fully
set before you turn the key. Do not press the accelerator during starting.
Cold Weather Starting
WARNING:Do not use starting fluid, such as ether, in the air
intake system (see air filter decal). Such fluid could cause
immediate explosive damage to the engine and possible personal injury.
WARNING:Do not add gasoline, gasohol or alcohol to diesel
fuel. This practice creates a serious fire hazard and causes
engine performance problems.
It is recommended that the engine block heater be used for starting
when the temperature is -10°F (-23°C) or colder. Refer toEngine block
heater (if equipped)in theStarting and Stopping the Enginechapter
of yourOwner’s Manual.
When operating in cold weather, Motorcraft® cetane improvers or
non-alcohol-based cetane improvers from a reputable manufacturer may
be used as needed.
Starting and Stopping the Engine
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MINOR TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Air purge procedure
Turn the key on for 30 seconds, then turn off. Repeat the procedure six
times.
If the engine won’t crank
WARNING:Battery posts, terminals and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds.Wash hands after handling.
Turn on the headlights. If the lights are dim, do not go on at all or when
the ignition is turned to START the lights become dim or go 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 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.
•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’s Manual.
If engine cranks but won’t start
Prolonged starter cranking (in excess of 10 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 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 off and
then back to on again.
Maintenance
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