2019 FORD F-53 maintenance

Driving Hints
Breaking-In......................................................56
Reduced Engine Performance.................56
Economical Driving......................................56
Driving Through Water.................................57
Roadside Emergencies
Roadside Assistance...................................59
Hazard Flashers............................................60
Jump Starting the Vehicle.........................60
Transporting the Vehicle............................62
Customer Assistance
Getting the Services You Need................64
In California (U.S. Only)..............................65
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) AutoLine Program (U.S. Only).......................66
Utilizing the Mediation/ArbitrationProgram (Canada Only).........................67
Getting Assistance Outside the U.S. andCanada..........................................................67
Ordering Additional Owner's Literature..........................................................................69
Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)..........................................................................69
Reporting Safety Defects (Canada Only)..........................................................................69
Fuses
Fuse Specification Chart.............................71
Changing a Fuse...........................................90
Maintenance
General Information.....................................92
Under Hood Overview - CommercialChassis..........................................................93
Under Hood Overview - MotorhomeChassis..........................................................94
Engine Oil Dipstick........................................95
Engine Oil Check...........................................95
Oil Change Indicator Reset.......................96
Engine Coolant Check.................................96
Automatic Transmission Fluid Check..........................................................................101
Brake Fluid Check........................................102
Power Steering Fluid Check....................104
Fuel Filter........................................................105
Changing the 12V Battery.........................105
Changing the Engine Air Filter.................107
Vehicle Care
General Information...................................109
Cleaning the Exterior.................................109
Cleaning the Engine....................................110
Cleaning the Wheels...................................110
Vehicle Storage...............................................111
Wheels and Tires
Tire Care...........................................................113
Using Snow Chains.....................................129
Changing a Road Wheel...........................129
Technical Specifications...........................133
Capacities and Specifications
Engine Specifications................................134
Motorcraft Parts...........................................134
Vehicle Identification Number................136
Vehicle Certification Label........................137
Transmission Code Designation.............137
Capacities and Specifications................138
Ford Protect
Ford Protect...................................................143
Scheduled Maintenance
General Maintenance Information.......145
Normal Scheduled Maintenance..........148
Special Operating Conditions ScheduledMaintenance.............................................150
Scheduled Maintenance Record............152
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For more information visit:
Web Address
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazard-ouswaste/perchlorate
FORD CREDIT
US Only
Ford Credit offers a full range of financingand lease plans to help you acquire yourvehicle. If you have financed or leased yourvehicle through Ford Credit, thank you foryour business.
For assistance call 1-800-727-7000, or formore information about Ford Credit andaccess to the online Account Manager tool,visit www.ford.com/finance.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
RECOMMENDATION
We have built your vehicle to the higheststandards using quality parts. Werecommend that you demand the use ofgenuine Ford and Motorcraft partswhenever your vehicle requires scheduledmaintenance or repair. You can clearlyidentify genuine Ford and Motorcraft partsby looking for the Ford, FoMoCo orMotorcraft branding on the parts or theirpackaging.
Scheduled Maintenance andMechanical Repairs
One of the best ways for you to make surethat your vehicle provides years of serviceis to have it maintained in line with ourrecommendations using parts thatconform to the specifications detailed inthis Owner’s Manual. Genuine Ford andMotorcraft parts meet or exceed thesespecifications.
Collision Repairs
We hope that you never experience acollision, but accidents do happen.Genuine Ford replacement collision partsmeet our stringent requirements for fit,finish, structural integrity, corrosionprotection and dent resistance. Duringvehicle development we validate thatthese parts deliver the intended level ofprotection as a whole system. A great wayto know for sure you are getting this levelof protection is to use genuine Fordreplacement collision parts.
Warranty on Replacement Parts
Genuine Ford and Motorcraft replacementparts are the only replacement parts thatbenefit from a Ford Warranty. The FordWarranty may not cover damage causedto your vehicle as a result of failednon-Ford parts. For additional information,refer to the terms and conditions of theFord Warranty.
SPECIAL NOTICES
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
For a detailed description of what iscovered and what is not covered by yourvehicle’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty,see the Warranty Manual that is providedto you along with your Owner’s Manual.
Special Instructions
For your added safety, your vehicle is fittedwith sophisticated electronic controls.
WARNING: You risk death orserious injury to yourself and others if youdo not follow the instruction highlightedby the warning symbol. Failure to followthe specific warnings and instructionscould result in personal injury.
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WARNING: NEVER use a rearwardfacing child restraint on a seat protectedby an ACTIVE AIRBAG in front of it,DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY to the CHILDcan occur.
Fleet Telematics Modem (If Equipped)
The onboard modem provides access todata to support telematics services suchas location, speed, idle time, fuel, vehiclediagnostics and maintenance alerts. Toexplore data, telematics services, thirdparty service provider support and tomanage existing telematics accounts, referto www.commericalsolutions.ford.com orcall 833-FCS-FORD.
Note:This is not available with FordPassConnect.
FordPass Connect (If Equipped)
With a FordPass-equipped vehicle, you canuse FordPass to track your vehicle’slocation and remotely access vehiclefeatures such as start, lock and unlock andvehicle status including fuel level andapproximate mileage. Message and datarates may apply. Services may be limitedby mobile phone network coverage area.For additional information, refer towww.fordpass.com.
On Board Diagnostics Data LinkConnector
WARNING: Do not connectwireless plug-in devices to the data linkconnector. Unauthorized third partiescould gain access to vehicle data andimpair the performance of safety relatedsystems. Only allow repair facilities thatfollow our service and repair instructionsto connect their equipment to the datalink connector.
Your vehicle has an OBD Data LinkConnector (DLC) that is used inconjunction with a diagnostic scan tool forvehicle diagnostics, repairs andreprogramming services. Installing anaftermarket device that uses the DLCduring normal driving for purposes such asremote insurance company monitoring,transmission of vehicle data to otherdevices or entities, or altering theperformance of the vehicle, may causeinterference with or even damage tovehicle systems. We do not recommendor endorse the use of aftermarket plug-indevices unless approved by Ford. Thevehicle Warranty will not cover damagecaused by an aftermarket plug-in device.
MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS
EQUIPMENT
WARNING: Driving whiledistracted can result in loss of vehiclecontrol, crash and injury. We stronglyrecommend that you use extremecaution when using any device that maytake your focus off the road. Yourprimary responsibility is the safeoperation of your vehicle. Werecommend against the use of any
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If the light remains on while the engine isrunning, this indicates inadequate hydraulicbooster pressure or reserve pump systemfailure. Stop the vehicle as soon aspossible and seek service immediately byyour authorized dealer.
Cruise Control Indicator
Illuminates when you switch thisfeature on. See Using CruiseControl (page 43).
Direction Indicator
Illuminates when the left or rightdirection indicator or the hazardwarning flasher is turned on. Ifthe indicators stay on or flash faster, checkfor a burned out bulb.
Electronic Throttle Control
Illuminates when the engine hasdefaulted to a limp-homeoperation. See your authorizeddealer as soon as possible.
Fasten Seatbelt Warning Lamp
It illuminates and a chimesounds until you fasten theseatbelts.
Headlamp High Beam Indicator
Illuminates when you switch thehigh beam headlamps on. It willflash when you use theheadlamp flasher.
Service Engine Soon
If it illuminates when the engineis running this indicates amalfunction. The On BoardDiagnostics system has detected amalfunction of the vehicle emission controlsystem.
If it flashes, engine misfire may beoccurring. Increased exhaust gastemperatures could damage the catalyticconverter or other vehicle components.Drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavyacceleration and deceleration) and haveyour vehicle immediately serviced.
It illuminates when you switch the ignitionon prior to engine start to check the bulband to indicate whether your vehicle isready for Inspection and Maintenance(I/M) testing.
Normally, it illuminates until the engine iscranked and automatically turns off if nomalfunctions are present. However, if after15 seconds it flashes eight times, thisindicates that your vehicle is not ready forInspection and Maintenance (I/M) testing.See Emission Law (page 34).
Tow Haul Indicator
Illuminates when the tow/haulfeature has been activated. If thelight flashes steadily, have thesystem serviced immediately, damage tothe transmission could occur.
AUDIBLE WARNINGS AND
INDICATORS
Fail-Safe Cooling Warning Chime
Sounds when the coolant gauge pointerhas moved to hot. There are three stagesof chimes:
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Engine
ActionMessage
The engine is overheating. Stop your vehicle as soonas safely possible, turn off the engine. If the warningstays on followed by an indicator chime or continuesto come on, contact an authorized dealer as soon aspossible. Never remove the coolant reservoir cap whilethe engine is running or hot.
REDUCED ENGINE POWER
The engine is overheating. Stop your vehicle as soonas safely possible, turn off the engine. If the warningstays on followed by an indicator chime or continuesto come on, contact an authorized dealer as soon aspossible.
STOP ENGINE SAFELY
The engine coolant is overheating. Stop your vehicleas soon as safely possible, turn off the engine and letit cool. Check the coolant and coolant level. If thewarning stays on or continues to come on, contact anauthorized dealer as soon as possible.
CHECK ENGINE TEMPERATURE
A early reminder of a low fuel condition.FUEL LEVEL LOW
Maintenance
ActionMessage
The engine oil pressure is low. Check the level of theengine oil. If the oil level is OK and this warning persists,shut down the engine immediately and contact anauthorized dealer as soon as possible. See Engine OilCheck (page 95).
LOW OIL PRESSURE
The brake fluid level is low and the brake systemshould be inspected immediately. See Brake FluidCheck (page 102).
BRAKE FLUID LEVEL LOW
The fuel cap is loose, not seated properly or off. Stopyour vehicle when convenient, turn off the engine andcheck that you inserted the fuel cap properly. Rotatethe cap until you hear a click. The warning messageswitches off after a proper drive cycle is completed.See Emission Law (page 34). If the warning messageremains on or continues to comes back on, see anauthorized dealer as soon as possible.
CHECK FUEL CAP
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EMISSION LAW
WARNING: Do not remove or alterthe original equipment floor covering orinsulation between it and the metal floorof the vehicle. The floor covering andinsulation protect occupants of thevehicle from the engine and exhaustsystem heat and noise. On vehicles withno original equipment floor coveringinsulation, do not carry passengers in amanner that permits prolonged skincontact with the metal floor. Failure tofollow these instructions may result infire or personal injury.
U.S. federal laws and certain state lawsprohibit removing or rendering inoperativeemission control system components.Similar federal or provincial laws mayapply in Canada. We do not approve of anyvehicle modification without firstdetermining applicable laws.
Tampering with emissionscontrol systems includingrelated sensors or the DieselExhaust Fluid system can result in reducedengine power and the illumination of theservice engine soon light.
Tampering With a Noise ControlSystem
Federal laws prohibit the following acts:
•Removal or rendering inoperative byany person other than for purposes ofmaintenance.
•Repair or replacement of any device orelement of the design incorporated intoa new vehicle for the purpose of noisecontrol prior to its sale or delivery tothe ultimate purchaser or while it is inuse.
•The use of the vehicle after any personremoves or renders inoperative anydevice or element of the design.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agencymay presume to constitute tampering asfollows:
•Removal of hood blanket, fender apronabsorbers, fender apron barriers,underbody noise shields or acousticallyabsorptive material.
•Tampering or rendering inoperative theengine speed governor, to allow enginespeed to exceed manufacturerspecifications.
If the engine does not start, runs rough,experiences a decrease in engineperformance, experiences excess fuelconsumption or produces excessiveexhaust smoke, check for the following:
•A plugged or disconnected air inletsystem hose.
•A plugged engine air filter element.
•Water in the fuel filter and waterseparator.
•A clogged fuel filter.
•Contaminated fuel.
•Air in the fuel system, due to looseconnections.
•An open or pinched sensor hose.
•Incorrect engine oil level.
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•Incorrect fuel for climatic conditions.
•Incorrect engine oil viscosity forclimactic conditions.
Note:Some vehicles have a lifetime fuelfilter that is integrated with the fuel tank.Regular maintenance or replacement is notneeded.
Note:If these checks do not help youcorrect the concern, have your vehiclechecked as soon as possible.
Noise Emissions Warranty,Prohibited Tampering Acts andMaintenance
On January 1, 1978, Federal regulationbecame effective governing the noiseemission on trucks over 10,000 lb(4,536 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR). The preceding statementsconcerning prohibited tampering acts andmaintenance, and the noise warrantyfound in the Warranty Guide, areapplicable to complete chassis cabs over10,000 lb (4,536 kg) GVWR.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
WARNING: Do not park, idle ordrive your vehicle on dry grass or otherdry ground cover. The emission systemheats up the engine compartment andexhaust system, creating the risk of fire.
WARNING: The normal operatingtemperature of the exhaust system isvery high. Never work around or attemptto repair any part of the exhaust systemuntil it has cooled. Use special care whenworking around the catalytic converter.The catalytic converter heats up to a veryhigh temperature after only a shortperiod of engine operation and stays hotafter the engine is switched off.
WARNING: Exhaust leaks mayresult in entry of harmful and potentiallylethal fumes into the passengercompartment. If you smell exhaustfumes inside your vehicle, have yourvehicle inspected immediately. Do notdrive if you smell exhaust fumes.
Your vehicle has various emission controlcomponents and a catalytic converter thatenables it to comply with applicableexhaust emission standards.
To make sure that the catalytic converterand other emission control componentscontinue to work properly:
•Do not crank the engine for more than10 seconds at a time.
•Do not run the engine with a spark pluglead disconnected.
•Do not push-start or tow-start yourvehicle. Use booster cables. See JumpStarting the Vehicle (page 60).
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Do not switch the ignition off when yourvehicle is moving.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Have the items listed in scheduledmaintenance information performedaccording to the specified schedule.
Note:Resulting component damage maynot be covered by the vehicle Warranty.
The scheduled maintenance items listedin scheduled maintenance information areessential to the life and performance ofyour vehicle and to its emissions system.
If you use anything other than Ford,Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts formaintenance replacements or for serviceof components affecting emission control,such non-Ford parts should be equivalentto genuine Ford Motor Company parts inperformance and durability.
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Illumination of the service engine soonindicator, charging system warning light orthe temperature warning light, fluid leaks,strange odors, smoke or loss of enginepower could indicate that the emissioncontrol system is not working properly.
An improperly operating or damagedexhaust system may allow exhaust toenter the vehicle. Have a damaged orimproperly operating exhaust systeminspected and repaired immediately.
Do not make any unauthorized changes toyour vehicle or engine. By law, vehicleowners and anyone who manufactures,repairs, services, sells, leases, tradesvehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehiclesare not permitted to intentionally removean emission control device or prevent itfrom working. Information about yourvehicle’s emission system is on the VehicleEmission Control Information Decallocated on or near the engine. This decalalso lists engine displacement.
Please consult your warranty informationfor complete details.
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Your vehicle has a computer known as theon-board diagnostics system (OBD-II) thatmonitors the engine’s emission controlsystem. The system protects theenvironment by making sure that yourvehicle continues to meet governmentemission standards. The OBD-II systemalso assists a service technician in properlyservicing your vehicle.
When the service engine soonindicator illuminates, the OBD-IIsystem has detected amalfunction. Temporary malfunctions maycause the service engine soon indicator toilluminate. Examples are:
1.Your vehicle has run out of fuel—theengine may misfire or run poorly.
2.Poor fuel quality or water in thefuel—the engine may misfire or runpoorly.
3.The fuel fill inlet may not have closedproperly. See Refueling (page 31).
4.Driving through deep water—theelectrical system may be wet.
You can correct these temporarymalfunctions by filling the fuel tank withgood quality fuel, properly closing the fuelfill inlet or letting the electrical system dryout. After three driving cycles without theseor any other temporary malfunctionspresent, the service engine soon indicatorshould stay off the next time you start theengine. A driving cycle consists of a coldengine startup followed by mixed city andhighway driving. No additional vehicleservice is required.
If the service engine soon indicator remainson, have your vehicle serviced at the firstavailable opportunity. Although somemalfunctions detected by the OBD-II maynot have symptoms that are apparent,continued driving with the service enginesoon indicator on can result in increasedemissions, lower fuel economy, reducedengine and transmission smoothness andlead to more costly repairs.
Readiness for Inspection andMaintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state and provincial and localgovernments may haveInspection/Maintenance (I/M) programsto inspect the emission control equipmenton your vehicle. Failure to pass thisinspection could prevent you from gettinga vehicle registration.
If the service engine soonindicator is on or the bulb doesnot work, your vehicle may needservice. See On-Board Diagnostics.
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