suspension FORD F SERIES MOTORHOME AND COMMERCIAL CHASSIS 1997 10.G Owners Manual

49 [GF04650( M)01/96]
Checking Parking Brake and Transmission
Park Mechanism
[GF04700( M)01/96]
Periodically check the holding ability of the
parking brake by stopping on a steep hill and
restraining the vehicle by using only the parking
brake with the transmission in N (Neutral).
Check the holding ability of the P (Park)
mechanism (automatic transmissions) by
releasing all brakes after moving the
transmission selector lever to the P (Park)
position.
%
*
[GF05200( ALL)01/96]
Steering Your Vehicle
%*
[GF05300( ALL)01/96]
Your vehicle comes with power steering. Power
steering uses energy from the engine to help
steer your vehicle.
%*
[GF05350( ALL)01/96]
If the amount of effort needed to steer your
vehicle changes at a constant vehicle speed, have
the power steering system checked. If the power
steering system breaks down (or if the engine is
turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually
but it takes more effort.
*
[GF05400( ALL)01/96]
Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme
right or left for more than five seconds if the
engine is running. This can damage the power
steering pump.
*
[GF05450( ALL)01/96]
NOTE: After any severe impact such as
striking large potholes, sliding into
curbs on icy roads, or a collision
involving the front end, observe the
steering wheel alignment. If the spokes
of the steering wheel seem to be in a
different position while going straight
down the road, have the front
suspension and steering checked for
possible damage.
File:09ltgfm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:22:54 1996

56
*
[GF08550( ALL)01/96]
Forced Downshifts
*
[GF08575( ALL)01/96]
To gain extra acceleration injOverdrive or
Drive (O/D OFF), push the accelerator to the
floor. The transmission will automatically
downshift to the appropriate gear: third, second
or first.
*
[GF08600( ALL)01/96]
Power Braking
*
[GF08625( ALL)01/96]
Increasing the engine speed above idle without
vehicle movement (such as holding the brake) in
a forward or reverse gear causes transmission
stall.
*
[GF08650( ALL)01/96]
NOTE: Continued operation in the stall
condition can result in transmission
overheat, malfunction or fluid
expulsion.
%
*
[GF20765( M)01/96]
Trailer Towing
*
[GF20770( ALL)01/96]
All vehicles may tow a Class I trailer provided
the Gross Combined Weight (GCW) is less than
or equal to the GVWR shown on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label. For heavier
trailer applications, refer to the towing
information found later in this chapter.
*
[GF20775( ALL)01/96]
Towing a trailer puts additional loads on your
vehicle's engine, transmission, axle, brakes, tires
and suspension. For your safety and for the
good of your vehicle, use the right equipment
for the type of trailer you tow.
*
[GF20785( ALL)01/96]
Your trailer towing capability will vary based on
the standard and optional equipment on your
vehicle. Refer to the followingVehicle
Loading/Towing Informationand the Trailer
Towing Tables to determine the specific towing
capability of your vehicle.
File:09ltgfm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:22:54 1996

60 %
*
[GF21020( ALL)01/96]
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
*
[GF21030( ALL)01/96]
To avoid overloading a vehicle, the owner
should observe the manufacturer's specified
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The GVWR is the
maximum total weight of base vehicle,
passengers, optional components and cargo that
a particular vehicle was designed to carry.
%*
[GF21040( ALL)01/96]
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
*
[GF21050( ALL)01/96]
We have all seen a car or a truck that is loaded
down in the rear and riding high in the front.
This is a dangerous condition that usually means
that the rear suspension components are under
severe strain and that vehicle handling is
impaired. There is more to carrying a load than
just payload or GVWR.
*
[GF21060( ALL)01/96]
Your Safety Compliance Certification Label not
only gives the GVWR, it also gives the Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) which is the
carrying capacity for each axle system. For
trucks, the rear axle will be designed to carry
more weight than the front.
*
[GF21070( ALL)01/96]
The rating is based on the carrying capacity of
thelowest ratedaxle and suspension component
as well as other factors. This is why it's so
important to observe vehicle loading ratings.
Overloading a vehicle punishes components and
can lead to shortened service life or outright
failure.
*
[GF21080( ALL)01/96]
The capacity of the tires is included as part of
the axle and suspension system, which is to be
considered when determining the lowest rated
component. Tires are rated to carry a specific
maximum load at a specific maximum tire
pressure.
File:09ltgfm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:22:54 1996

115
*
[MC19350( ALL)01/96]
If you check the power steering fluid when it is
cold, make sure that the fluid reaches the FULL
COLD range on the dipstick. The reading will
only be accurate if the fluid temperature is
approximately 50 to85ÊF (10 to 30ÊC).
*
[MC19400( ALL)01/96]
NOTE: Do not turn the steering wheel of your
vehicle with the engine off. It could
force power steering fluid out from the
reservoir cap or in extreme cases, it
could unseat the cap.
[MC19500( M)01/96]Suspension and Steering
[MC19600( M)01/96]
Modifications
[MC19700( M)01/96]
The suspension and steering systems on your
vehicle have been designed and tested to
provide both safe, predictable performance
whether loaded or empty as well as durable
load carrying capability. Any modifications to
the suspension or steering systems can reduce
your vehicle's performance capability and
adversely affect driver and passenger safety.
Ford recommends that you do not make
modifications such as adding or removing parts
(like lift kits or stabilizer bars) or by using
replacement parts not equivalent to the original
factory equipment.
[MC19800( M)01/96]
RWARNING
The low pressure gas shock absorbers are
charged with nitrogen gas to 90 psi (620
kPa). Do not attempt to heat, puncture or
open.
File:11ltmcm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:24:54 1996

116 [MC19900( M)01/96]Inspecting for Road Damage
[MC20000( M)01/96]
The suspension and steering linkage in your
vehicle should be inspected periodically for
abnormal looseness and damaged seals. Also be
alert for changes in steering action. Hard
steering, excessive free play or unusual sounds
when turning or parking indicate a need for
inspection or servicing.
[MC20100( M)01/96]
NOTE: After any severe impact such as
striking large potholes, inadvertent
sliding into curbs on icy roads, or a
collision involving the front end,
observe the steering wheel alignment.
If the steering wheel spokes seem to
be in a different position while going
down the road, have the front
suspension and steering checked for
possible damage.
%
*
[MC21300( ALL)01/96]
Automatic Transmission Fluid
[MC21400( M)01/96]
Under normal driving conditions automatic
transmission fluid should not need changing.
Under severe duty conditions automatic
transmission fluid should be changed every
21,000 miles (34,000 km). However, if the
transmission is not working properly, for
instance, the transmission may slip or shift
slowly, or you may notice some sign of fluid
leakage, the fluid level should be checked.
[MC21500( ALL)01/96]
Transmission fluid, filter and seal assembly
should be changed every 21,000 miles
(34,000 km) only under any of the following
conditions.
[MC21550( ALL)01/96]
q
Extended periods of high speed driving
during hot weather at/or above+90ÊF
(+30ÊC).
[MC21600( ALL)01/96]
q
Towing a trailer for distances over 1,000 miles
(1,600 km) per trip.
File:11ltmcm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:24:54 1996

127 [MC27600( M)01/96]
RWARNING
Use only wheel assemblies approved and
released by Ford Motor Company for your
vehicle model.
[MC27650( M)01/96]
A wheel or tire of the wrong size or type may
adversely affect such things as load carrying
capacity, wheel and bearing life, brake cooling,
speedometer/odometer calibration, stopping
ability, headlight aim, bumper height, vehicle
ground clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance
to the body and chassis. Replacement with used
wheels is not advised: they may have been
treated harshly or have high mileage, and they
could fail without warning.
[MC27700( M)01/96]
The use of wheels with load carrying limits
higher than the limits of the wheels originally
installed on your vehicle does not in itself
increase the GAWR or GVWR of the vehicle.
[MC27750( M)01/96]
RWARNING
Use only wheel assemblies approved and
released by Ford Motor Company for your
vehicle model.
[MC27800( M)01/96]
RWARNING
Alterations to the vehicle suspension or
steering by raising the chassis (i.e., use of
aftermarket ªlift kitsº) may adversely
affect vehicle handling and braking
performance.
File:11ltmcm.ex
Update:Fri Dec 13 11:24:54 1996

Severe Duty Schedule 173
*
[BK50100( ALL)01/95]
3,000 MILES (5,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK50200( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK50450( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK50501( ALL)01/95]
6,000 MILES (10,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK50601( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK50650( ALL)08/95]
q
Rotate tires and adjust air pressure. (3)(5)(6)
*
[BK50801( ALL)09/95]
q
Inspect and lubricate automatic transmission
shift linkage.
*
[BK50901( ALL)06/95]
q
Inspect exhaust system for leaks, damage or
loose parts. Remove any foreign material
trapped by exhaust system shielding.
*
[BK50910( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: It is normal for a certain amount of
moisture and staining to be present
around the muffler seams. The
presence of soot, light surface rust or
moisture does not indicate a faulty
muffler.
*
[BK51001( ALL)08/95]
q
Lubricate steering linkage suspension,
driveshaft U-joint if equipped with grease
fittings and lubricate slip yoke (if equipped).
(2)
*
[BK51150( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
File:18ltbkm.ex
Update:Thu Dec 12 13:32:30 1996

174 Severe Duty Schedule
*
[BK51201( ALL)01/95]
9,000 MILES (15,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK51301( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK51350( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK51401( ALL)01/95]
12,000 MILES (20,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK51501( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK52001( ALL)09/95]
q
Inspect and lubricate automatic transmission
shift linkage.
*
[BK52101( ALL)06/95]
q
Inspect exhaust system for leaks, damage or
loose parts. Remove any foreign material
trapped by exhaust system shielding.
*
[BK52110( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: It is normal for a certain amount of
moisture and staining to be present
around the muffler seams. The
presence of soot, light surface rust or
moisture does not indicate a faulty
muffler.
*
[BK52201( EFM)08/95]
q
Lubricate steering linkage suspension,
driveshaft U-joint if equipped with grease
fittings and lubricate slip yoke (if equipped).
(2)
*
[BK52350( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
File:18ltbkm.ex
Update:Thu Dec 12 13:32:30 1996

176 Severe Duty Schedule
*
[BK53801( ALL)08/95]
q
Lubricate steering linkage suspension,
driveshaft U-joint if equipped with grease
fittings and lubricate slip yoke (if equipped).
(2)
*
[BK54050( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK54101( ALL)01/95]
21,000 MILES (35,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK54201( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK54225( ALL)10/95]
q
Change automatic transmission fluid.
*
[BK54250( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK54301( ALL)01/95]
24,000 MILES (40,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK54401( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK54501( ALL)08/95]
q
Rotate tires and adjust air pressure. (3)(5)(6)
*
[BK54801( ALL)09/95]
q
Inspect and lubricate automatic transmission
shift linkage.
*
[BK54901( ALL)06/95]
q
Inspect exhaust system for leaks, damage or
loose parts. Remove any foreign material
trapped by exhaust system shielding.
*
[BK54910( ALL)09/95]
NOTE: It is normal for a certain amount of
moisture and staining to be present
around the muffler seams. The
presence of soot, light surface rust or
moisture does not indicate a faulty
muffler.
File:18ltbkm.ex
Update:Thu Dec 12 13:32:30 1996

Severe Duty Schedule 177
*
[BK55101( ALL)08/95]
q
Lubricate steering linkage suspension,
driveshaft U-joint if equipped with grease
fittings and lubricate slip yoke (if equipped).
(2)
*
[BK55301( ALL)09/95]
q
Lubricate throttle kickdown or TV lever ball
studs.
*
[BK55350( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK55401( ALL)01/95]
27,000 MILES (45,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK55501( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK55550( ALL)04/93]
four pica chart:0060627-A
*
[BK55601( ALL)01/95]
30,000 MILES (50,000 Kilometers)
*
[BK55701( ALL)11/95]
q
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
*
[BK55800( ALL)08/95]
q
Replace air cleaner filter every 30,000 miles
(50,000 km) or 30 months. If operating in dusty
conditions consult your dealer and/or follow severe
duty maintenance schedule. (1)
*
[BK55950( ALL)06/95]
q
Inspect engine cooling system, hoses, and clamps;
and check coolant strength every 15,000 miles
(25,000 km) or 12 months.
*
[BK55985( ALL)04/93]
q
Replace crankcase emission air filter. If operating
in dusty conditions consult your dealer and/or
follow severe duty maintenance schedule.
*
[BK56200( ALL)09/95]
q
Inspect and lubricate automatic transmission
shift linkage.
File:18ltbkm.ex
Update:Thu Dec 12 13:32:30 1996