service FORD EXPLORER 2006 4.G Workshop Manual

Adding engine coolant
When adding coolant, make sure it is a 50/50 mixture of engine coolant
and distilled water. Add the mixture to the coolant reservoir,when the
engine is cool, until the appropriate fill level is obtained.
Do not add engine coolant when the engine is hot. Steam and
scalding liquids released from a hot cooling system can burn you
badly. Also, you can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.
Do not put engine coolant in the windshield washer fluid
container. If sprayed on the windshield, engine coolant could
make it difficult to see through the windshield.
²Add Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant
(yellow-colored), VC-7±A (U.S., except CA, OR and NM),
VC-7±B (CA, OR and NM), meeting Ford Specification
WSS-M97B51±A1.
Note:Use of Motorcraft Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets, VC-6, may
darken the color of Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant from
yellow to golden tan.
²Do not add/mix an orange-colored, extended life coolant such
as Motorcraft Specialty Orange Engine Coolant, VC-2 (US) or
CXC-209 (Canada), meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B44±D
with the factory-filled coolant.Mixing Motorcraft Specialty Orange
Engine Coolant or any orange-colored extended life product with your
factory filled coolant can result in degraded corrosion protection.
²A large amount of water without engine coolant may be added, in case
of emergency, to reach a vehicle service location. In this instance, the
cooling system must be drained and refilled with a 50/50 mixture of
engine coolant and distilled water as soon as possible. Water alone
(without engine coolant) can cause engine damage from corrosion,
overheating or freezing.
²Do not use alcohol, methanol, brine or any engine coolants
mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze (coolant).Alcohol
and other liquids can cause engine damage from overheating or
freezing.
²Do not add extra inhibitors or additives to the coolant.These
can be harmful and compromise the corrosion protection of the engine
coolant.
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290

Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 50/50
mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system
and engine protection.
What you should know about fail-safe cooling (4.6L V8 engine only)
If the engine coolant supply is depleted, this feature allows the vehicle to
be driven temporarily before incremental component damage is incurred.
The ªfail-safeº distance depends on ambient temperatures, vehicle load
and terrain.
Fail-safe cooling and engine oil temperature sensor (4.6L V8 only)
If the engine coolant and/or engine oil overheat, the vehicle limits engine
power before engine damage can occur. The instrument cluster can
provide up to four indicators to warn of coolant and/or oil overheat.
Warning lights/indicators Fail Safe cooling Oil Overheat Only*
(Engine oil pressure)OnOffÐwith normal
oil pressure
(Service engine soon)On Off
(Engine coolant temperature)On On
Engine coolant temperature gage Hot (H) area Hot (H) area
*Oil overheat warnings can be triggered in severe driving conditions, such as
towing heavy loads over mountainous terrain in extreme hot temperatures.
If the engine fluids reach even hotter temperatures, fail-safe cooling
protects the engine by limiting engine power further and may disable the
air conditioning system. The engine will automatically switch to
alternating cylinder operation. Each disabled cylinder acts as an air
pump and cools the engine. During this mode, the engine will run rough.
If continued operation increases the engine temperature to a critical
range, the engine will shut down. Steering and braking effort will
increase. Once engine temperature cools, the engine can be restarted.
When fail-safe mode is activated
You have limited engine power when in the fail-safe mode, so drive the vehicle
with caution. The vehicle will not be able to maintain high speed operation and
the engine will run rough. Remember that the engine is capable of completely
shutting down automatically to prevent engine damage, therefore:
1. Pull off the road as soon as safely possible and turn off the engine.
2. Arrange for the vehicle to be taken to an authorized dealer.
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293

²Theindicator may come on. For more information on the ªCheck
Engineº or the ªService engine soonº indicator, refer toWarning
lights and chimesin theInstrument Clusterchapter.
ESSENTIALS OF GOOD FUEL ECONOMY
Measuring techniques
Your best source of information about actual fuel economy is you, the
driver. You must gather information as accurately and consistently as
possible. Fuel expense, frequency of fill-ups or fuel gauge readings are
NOT accurate as a measure of fuel economy. We do not recommend taking
fuel economy measurements during the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of
driving (engine break-in period). You will get a more accurate
measurement after 2,000 miles-3,000 miles (3,000 km±5,000 km).
Filling the tank
The advertised fuel capacity of the fuel tank on your vehicle is equal to
the rated refill capacity of the fuel tank as listed in theRefill capacities
section of this chapter.
The advertised capacity is the amount of the indicated capacity and the
empty reserve combined. Indicated capacity is the difference in the
amount of fuel in a full tank and a tank when the fuel gauge indicates
empty. Empty reserve is the small amount of fuel remaining in the fuel
tank after the fuel gauge indicates empty.
The amount of usable fuel in the empty reserve varies and should
not be relied upon to increase driving range. When refueling your
vehicle after the fuel gauge indicates empty, you might not be
able to refuel the full amount of the advertised capacity of the
fuel tank due to the empty reserve still present in the tank.
For consistent results when filling the fuel tank:
²Turn the engine/ignition switch to the off position prior to refueling,
an error in the reading will result if the engine is left running.
²Use the same filling rate setting (low Ð medium Ð high) each time
the tank is filled.
²Allow no more than two automatic click-offs when filling.
²Always use fuel with the recommended octane rating.
²Use a known quality gasoline, preferably a national brand.
²Use the same side of the same pump and have the vehicle facing the
same direction each time you fill up.
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299

²Close windows for high speed driving.
EPA window sticker
Every new vehicle should have the EPA window sticker. Contact your
authorized dealer if the window sticker is not supplied with your vehicle.
The EPA window sticker should be your guide for the fuel economy
comparisons with other vehicles.
It is important to note the box in the lower left corner of the window
sticker. These numbers represent the Range of MPG (L/100 km)
expected on the vehicle under optimum conditions. Your fuel economy
may vary depending upon the method of operation and conditions.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with various emission control components and a
catalytic converter which will enable your vehicle to comply with
applicable exhaust emission standards. To make sure that the catalytic
converter and other emission control components continue to work
properly:
²Use only the specified fuel listed.
²Avoid running out of fuel.
²Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
²Have the items listed inscheduled maintenance information
performed according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed inscheduled maintenance
informationare essential to the life and performance of your vehicle
and to its emissions system.
If other than Ford, Motorcraft or Ford-authorized parts are used for
maintenance replacements or for service of components affecting
emission control, such non-Ford parts should be equivalent to genuine
Ford Motor Company parts in performance and durability.
Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry
ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine
compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.
Illumination of the
indicator, charging system warning light or the
temperature warning light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss of
engine power, could indicate that the emission control system is not
working properly.
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302

An improperly operating or damaged exhaust system may allow exhaust
to enter the vehicle. Have a damaged or improperly operating exhaust
system inspected and repaired immediately.
Exhaust leaks may result in entry of harmful and potentially
lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your vehicle or engine. By
law, vehicle owners and anyone who manufactures, repairs, services,
sells, leases, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles are not
permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or prevent
it from working. Information about your vehicle's emission system is on
the Vehicle Emission Control Information Decal located on or near the
engine. This decal identifies engine displacement and gives some tune up
specifications.
Please consult yourWarranty Guidefor complete emission warranty
information.
On board diagnostics (OBD-II)
Your vehicle is equipped with a computer that monitors the engine's
emission control system. This system is commonly known as the On
Board Diagnostics System (OBD-II). This OBD-II system protects the
environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet
government emission standards. The OBD-II system also assists your
authorized dealer in properly servicing your vehicle. When the
indicator illuminates, the OBD-II system has detected a malfunction.
Temporary malfunctions may cause your
indicator to illuminate.
Examples are:
1. The vehicle has run out of fuelÐthe engine may misfire or run poorly.
2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.
3. The fuel cap may not have been securely tightened. SeeFuel filler
capin this chapter.
These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank
with good quality fuel and/or properly tightening the fuel cap. After three
driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions
present, the
indicator should turn offÐA driving cycle consists of a
cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving. No additional
vehicle service is required.
If the
indicator remains on, have your vehicle serviced at the first
available opportunity.
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303

Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an I/M test of
the on-board diagnostics system. If your
indicator is on, refer to
the description in theWarning lights and chimessection of the
Instrument Clusterchapter. Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test with
the
indicator on.
If the vehicle's powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced,
the on-board diagnostics system is reset to a ªnot ready for I/M testº
condition. To ready the on-board diagnostics system for I/M testing, a
minimum of 30 minutes of city and highway driving is necessary as
described below:
²First, at least 10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway.
²Next, at least 20 minutes driving in stop-and-go, city-type traffic with
at least four idle periods.
Allow the vehicle to sit for at least eight hours without starting the
engine. Then, start the engine and complete the above driving cycle. The
engine must warm up to its normal operating temperature. Once started,
do not turn off the engine until the above driving cycle is complete.
POWER STEERING FLUID
Check the power steering fluid. Refer to thescheduled maintenance
guidefor the service interval schedules. If adding fluid is necessary, use
only MERCONtAT F.
1. Start the engine and let it run
until it reaches normal operating
temperature (the engine coolant
temperature gauge indicator will be
near the center of the normal area
between H and C).
2. While the engine idles, turn the
steering wheel left and right several
times.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
5. The fluid level should be between the MIN and MAX lines. Do not add
fluid if the level is in this range.
6. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking
the level until it reaches the correct operating range. Be sure to put the
cap back on the reservoir.
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304

BRAKE FLUID
The fluid level will drop slowly as
the brakes wear, and will rise when
the brake components are replaced.
Fluid levels below the ªMAXº line
that do not trigger the brake system
warning lamp are within the normal
operating range, there is no need to
add fluid. If the fluid levels are
outside of the normal operating
range, the performance of your
brake system could be
compromised, seek service from your authorized dealer immediately.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid
The automatic transmission does not have an underhood transmission
fluid dipstick.
Refer to yourscheduled maintenance informationfor scheduled
intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not
consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the
transmission is not working properly, (i.e., if the transmission slips or
shifts slowly) or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.
Transmission fluid should be checked and, if required, fluid
should be added by an authorized dealer.
Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or
cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission
operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.
Maintenance and Specifications
305

an automatic transmission application requiring MERCONtSP may cause
transmission damage. Use of a transmission fluid other than the
recommended fluid may cause transmission damage. Refer to your
scheduled maintenance informationto determine the correct service
interval.
2Indicates only approximate dry-fill capacity. Some applications may vary
based on cooler size and if equipped with an in-tank cooler. The amount
of transmission fluid and fluid level should be checked by a qualified
technician.
3Add the coolant type originally equipped in your vehicle.
5Use of synthetic or synthetic blend motor oil is not mandatory. Engine
oil need only have the API Certification mark and meet the requirements
of Ford specification WSS-M2C929-A (4.0L) or WSS-M2C930-A (4.6L).
LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS
ItemFord Part
Name or
equivalentFord Part
NumberFord
Specification
Brake fluidMotorcraft High
Performance
DOT 3 Motor
Vehicle Brake
FluidPM-1 ESA-M6C25-A
Body hinges,
latches, door
striker plates
and rotors, seat
tracks, fuel filler
door hinge and
spring, hood
latch, auxiliary
latch, seat
tracksMulti-Purpose
GreaseXG±4 or XL±5 ESB-M1C93±B
Door
weatherstripsSilicone Spray
LubricantXL-6 ESR-M13P4-A
Lock cylindersMotorcraft
Penetrating and
Lock LubricantXL-1 n one
Maintenance and Specifications
310

ItemFord Part
Name or
equivalentFord Part
NumberFord
Specification
Rear axleMotorcraft
75W-140 High
Performance
Synthetic Rear
Axle LubricantXY-75W140±QL WSL-M2C192±A
Front axle
(4WD)Motorcraft SAE
80W-90
Premium Rear
Axle LubricantXY-80W90-QL WSP-M2C197-A
Transfer case
(4WD)Motorcraft
MERCONt
Multi-Purpose
AT FXT-2-QDX MERCONt
Transfer case
Front Output
Slip Shaft
(4WD)Premium
Long-Life GreaseXG-1-C ESA-M1C75-B
Windshield
washer fluidMotorcraft
Premium
Windshield
Washer
ConcentrateZC±32±A WSB-M8B16±A2
1Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. MERCONt,
MERCONtV and MERCONtSP are not interchangeable. DO NOT mix
MERCONt, MERCONtV and MERCONtSP. Use of dual usage fluids in
an automatic transmission application requiring MERCONtSP may cause
transmission damage. Use of a transmission fluid other than the
recommended fluid may cause transmission damage. Refer to your
scheduled maintenance informationto determine the correct service
interval.
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312

Interior style
Electrochromatic compass/temperature interior mirrors
Floor mats
Scuff plates
Lifestyle
Bike racks
Cargo organization and management
Neutral tow kit
Rear seat entertainment systems
Trailer hitches, wiring harnesses and accessories
Peace of mind
First aid and highway safety kits
Full vehicle covers
Locking gas cap
Remote start
Vehicle security systems
Keyless entry keypad
For maximum vehicle performance, keep the following information in
mind when adding accessories or equipment to your vehicle:
²When adding accessories, equipment, passengers and luggage to your
vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of
the front or rear axle (GVWR or GAWR as indicated on the Safety
Compliance Certification label). Consult your authorized dealer for
specific weight information.
²The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Canadian Radio
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulate the use of mobile
communications systems Ð such as two-way radios, telephones and
theft alarms - that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such
equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC or CRTC
regulations and should be installed only by a qualified service
technician.
Accessories
318