steering wheel FORD EXPLORER 1996 2.G User Guide

Driving Your Explorer
261
*
[DR20900(ALL)11/89]
When climbing a steep hill, start in a lower gear, rather than
finding it necessary to downshift from a higher gear after the
ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the
possibility of stalling.
*
[DR21000(ALL)11/89]
When descending a steep hill avoid sudden braking. Rapid
pumping of the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still
maintain steering control.
*
[DR21101(ALL)11/89]
Driving on Snow or Ice
*
[DR21200(ALL)12/95]
A four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle has advantages
over two-wheel drive vehicles in snow and ice but can skid like
any other vehicle. If so equipped, keep the vehicle in four-wheel
drive if icy or slippery conditions exist.
*
[DR21300(ALL)11/89]
Avoid sudden applications of power and quick changes of
direction on snow or ice. Apply the accelerator slowly and
steadily when starting from a full stop.
*
[DR21310(ALL)05/95]
All utility-type and Four-Wheel Drive vehicles have special
design and equipment features to make them capable of
performing in a wide variety of off-road applications. Specific
design characteristics give them higher centers of gravity than
ordinary passenger cars.
*
[DR21325(ALL)08/95]
RWARNING
Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are NOT designed
for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any
more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform
satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp
turns or abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles.
%*
[DR21400(ALL)03/95]
Brakes
*
[DR21500(ALL)01/93]
Front Disc Brakes
*
[DR21600(ALL)06/95]
The front disc brakes are self-adjusting. They do not require
service other than periodic inspection for pad wear.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

268
*
[DR25350(ALL)03/95]
Operate your vehicle within reasonable limits. Sudden
acceleration, deceleration, turning, or combinations of these
maneuvers can cause a vehicle to behave differently than
anticipated.
*
[DR25501(ALL)02/95]
Wheel Spin
*
[DR25550(ALL)11/92]
n
Extreme acceleration can cause the rear wheels to spin,
perhaps resulting in reduced steering control.
[DR26350(ALL)12/92]
If the wheels spin, use 2 (Second gear) to gain traction. Move
forward slowly and evenly. If this does not work, try rocking
the vehicle.
*
[DR26401(ALL)05/91]
For 4x4 vehicles, engage 4WD, and try to drive away.
%*
[DR26550(ALL)05/90]
High Speed Driving
*
[DR26590(ALL)07/95]
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying posted speed limits.
*
[DR26601(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Driving too fast for conditions creates the possibility of
loss of vehicle control. Driving at very high speeds for
extended periods of time may result in damage to vehicle
components.
*
[DR26625(ALL)12/91]
Speed limiter
[DR26652(ALL)01/95]
All models are equipped with a Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) which limits the maximum engine speed and thus road
speed in top gear. Vehicle operation is normal since the
controlled maximum speed is above posted highway speeds in
North America.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Driving Your Explorer
269
%*
[DR26701(ALL)01/95]
Driving in Bad Weather
%*
[DR26750(ALL)01/95]
Slippery roads
*
[DR26801(ALL)03/95]
Drive cautiously on wet or snowy roads:
*
[DR26850(ALL)03/95]
n
Do not quickly move the steering wheel unless necessary.
*
[DR26901(ALL)01/95]
n
Drive slower than you normally would.
*
[DR26951(ALL)01/95]
n
Give your vehicle more distance to stop.
[DR27001(ALL)01/95]
n
Pump the brake pedal steadily and evenly to avoid locking
your front wheels (except with 4WABS).
[DR27025(ALL)05/95]
n
To stop on ice, shift to N (Neutral) below 10 mph (15 km/h)
and gently pump brakes (except with 4WABS).
*
[DR27050(ALL)02/93]
n
Consider using one of the lower gears.
*
[DR27101(ALL)05/91]
n
For 4x4 vehicles, engage 4WD, and try to drive slowly away.
*
[DR27150(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
To avoid losing control on slippery roads, do not
downshift into Low with the automatic transmission
when moving faster than 20 mph (32 km/h). Do not
downshift into First with the manual transmission when
moving faster than 5 mph (8 km/h).
%*
[DR27450(ALL)03/95]
Traction-Lok Rear Axle (If equipped)
*
[DR27501(ALL)03/95]
This axle provides added drive away traction on slippery
surfaces, particularly when one or more wheels are on a surface
with poor traction.
*
[DR27550(ALL)03/93]
Extended use of other than matching size tires on a
Traction-Lok rear axle could result in a permanent reduction in
effectiveness. This loss of effectiveness does not affect normal
driving and should not be noticeable to the driver.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

292
*
[DR38925(ALL)08/95]
Servicing Your Vehicle If You Tow
*
[DR38950(ALL)08/93]
If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need
to be serviced more frequently than usual. Refer to the
Maintenance Schedule and Recordbooklet for additional
information.
[DR39000(ALL)08/95]
Trailer towing tips
*
[DR39100(ALL)11/89]
Before starting on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing
in an area away from heavy traffic. Get to know the ªfeelº of
the vehicle/trailer combination.
*
[DR39200(ALL)05/90]
Practice backing up. Back up very slowly, with someone outside
at the rear of your trailer to guide you. Place your hand at the
bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you
want the rear of the trailer to swing. Slight movement of the
steering wheel results in a much larger movement of the rear of
the trailer.
*
[DR39300(ALL)11/89]
Allow more room for stopping with a trailer attached. Trailer
brakes should be applied first, whether manually or
automatically controlled, when approaching a stop.
*
[DR39400(ALL)11/89]
For a good handling truck-trailer combination, the trailer tongue
load should be approximately 10-15% of the loaded trailer
weight.
*
[DR39500(ALL)05/95]
Make a thorough check of your equipment before starting out
on the road. After you have traveled about 50 miles (80 km)
stop in a protected area and double-check your hitch and
electrical connections. Also check trailer wheel lug nuts for
tightness.
*
[DR39600(ALL)11/89]
When turning, drive slightly beyond the normal turning point
so the trailer wheels will clear curbs or other obstructions.
[DR39750(ALL)01/95]
When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather,
place the gearshift selector lever in P (Park) to increase the
engine idle speed. This aids in engine cooling and air
conditioner efficiency. If the engine overheats, rotate the
function selector control knob to panel position to stop the
compressor and increase the engine speed for a short time.
File:10undrx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:12:36 1996

Roadside Emergencies
299
*
[RE03400(ALL)05/95]4.
Remove the other end of the positive (+) cable from the
discharged battery.
*
[RE03500(ALL)1/96]
After the vehicle is started, let it idle for a while to let the
engine ªrelearnº its idle conditions. Drive it around for a while
with all electrical accessories turned off to let the battery
recharge. Driveability may be deteriorated slightly until all drive
modes are ªrelearned.ºYou may need to use a battery charger
to fully recharge the battery.
*
[RE03525( X)01/95]
If you need to replace your battery, seeBatteryin theServicing
Your Explorerchapter.
%*
[RE03600(ALL)03/95]
Changing a Tire
*
[RE03700(ALL)01/95]
If you get a flat tire while you are driving, do not apply the
brake heavily. Instead, gradually decrease the speed. Hold the
steering wheel firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the
side of the road. Park on a level spot, turn off the ignition, set
the parking brake, and turn on the hazard flashers.
%*
[RE03800(ALL)03/95]
The Conventional Spare Tire
[RE03915( X)10/94]
Your vehicle may be equipped with a conventional spare tire,
which you can use as a spare or as a regular tire. This spare tire
is identical to the other tires that come with your vehicle,
although the wheel may not match.
*
[RE03930(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
To avoid injury, never run the engine with one wheel off
the ground, such as when changing a tire.
%*
[RE04000(ALL)03/95]
The Temporary Spare Tire
*
[RE04100(ALL)03/95]
You may have a high pressure temporary spare tire. This spare
tire is smaller than a regular tire and is designed for emergency
use only. Use it only when you get a flat tire and replace it as
soon as you can. This spare tire is marked with the words
ªTEMPORARY USE ONLYº so that you can easily identify it.
File:12unrex.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:14:34 1996

Servicing Your Explorer
335
*
[SV02750(ALL)03/95]
Working with the engine on:
[SV02775(ALL)03/95]1.
Set the parking brake fully, and make sure the gearshift is
securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or
Neutral (manual transmission) and block the wheels.
*
[SV02825(ALL)03/95]2.
Block the wheels. This will prevent your vehicle from
moving unexpectedly.
*
[SV02900(ALL)02/95]
RWARNING
Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed
and do not remove it while the engine is running.
%*
[SV02950(ALL)03/95]
Opening the Hood
[SV03035(ALL)12/91]1.
Pull the hood release handle, located below the steering
column.
[SV03040(ALL)01/95]
7-1/2 pica art:0020332-B
Hood release handle
*
[SV03050( X)12/91]2.
While applying downward pressure on the hood, push the
hood latch handle located behind the grille near the center
front of the vehicle to the left.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996

Servicing Your Explorer
379
[SV37500(ALL)04/94]
7-1/2 pica art:0020382-C
Brake master cylinder
%*
[SV37600(ALL)03/95]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37700(ALL)01/95]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a
year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
%*
[SV37800(ALL)03/95]
Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid
*
[SV37900(ALL)02/95]1.
Start the engine and let it run until the power steering fluid
reaches normal operating temperature. The power steering
fluid will be at the right temperature when the engine
coolant temperature gauge in the instrument cluster is near
the center of the NORMAL operating temperature range.
*
[SV38000(ALL)01/95]2.
While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel back and
forth several times. Make sure that the cap assembly is
installed at this time.
*
[SV38100(ALL)05/95]3.
Turn the engine off.
%*
[SV38200(ALL)03/94]4.
Check the fluid level on the dipstick (which is highlighted in
yellow in your vehicle). The fluid level should be between
the arrows in the FULL HOT range, which is marked on the
side of the dipstick, opposite the side marked FULL COLD.
Do not add fluid if the level is within the FULL HOT range.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996

Servicing Your Explorer
381
*
[SV39200(ALL)01/95]
If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for
a long period of time before adding fluid. This can damage the
power steering pump.
*
[SV39400(ALL)02/95]
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).
*
[SV39405(ALL)06/93]
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.
%*
[SV39495(ALL)03/95]
Fuses
[SV39600(ALL)03/95]
Fuses protect your vehicle's electrical system from overloading.
If electrical parts in your vehicle are not working, the system
may have been overloaded and blown a fuse. Before you
replace or repair any electrical parts, check the appropriate
fuses.
[SV39700(ALL)07/94]
The following charts tell you which fuses protect each electrical
part of your vehicle. If a fuse blows, all the parts of your
vehicle that use that circuit will not work.
*
[SV39800(ALL)05/95]
Once you have determined which fuses to check, follow the
procedures underChecking and replacing fuseslater in this
chapter.
File:15unsvx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:20:34 1996

425
Index
Cleaning your vehicle (continued)
instrument panel................. 7,110
interior....................... 186
interior lamps.................... 133
leather seats.................... 186
mirrors....................... 191
plastic parts..................... 7
polishing....................... 6
rear windows.................... 126
rustproofing..................... 7
safety belts...................... 24
tail lamps..................... 132
upholstery and interior trim............. 186
washing....................... 6
waxing........................ 6
wheels....................... 370
windows...................... 126
Climate control system................. 110
Clock.....................219, 229, 241
Clutch
adjusting...................... 376
fluid........................ 376
fluid reservoir................... 376
operation while driving............... 251
recommended shift speeds.............. 253
shifting the gears.................. 251
specifications.................... 406
Cold engine starting................... 71
Combination lap and shoulder belts...........9,11
Compact disc radio (see Electronic sound system).... 209
Compass, electronic.................. 197
Compass/temperature display............. 197
Controls
instrument panel.................. 109
mirrors.....................188, 191
power seat..................... 183
steering column................... 135
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996

439
Index
Snowplowing..................... 294
Snow tires and chains................. 369
Spare tire
changing the tire................299, 304
conventional spare...............299, 301
finding the spare.................. 301
removing the spare tire............... 301
storing the flat tire...............301, 307
temporary spare................... 299
Spark plugs, specifications............... 405
Special driving conditions............... 267
Special notice...................... 4
E-4WD vehicles.................... 4
utility-type vehicles.................. 4
Specification chart, lubricants.............. 406
Speed control
accelerating..................... 144
canceling a set speed................ 146
resetting...................... 144
resuming a set speed................ 146
tap up/tap down.................. 144
when towing a trailer................ 291
Speedometer...................... 93
Starting your vehicle
preparing to start your vehicle............. 70
starting a cold engine................. 71
starting after a collision................ 74
starting a warm engine................ 72
starting your vehicle if the battery is disabled..... 295
Steering, power.................... 255
Steering wheel
horn........................ 140
locking........................ 67
speed controls................... 141
tilting....................... 140
Storage compartments, overhead storage compartment . . 201
File:unixx.ex
Update:Thu Feb 29 09:21:09 1996