maintenance FORD F250 1996 User Guide

301
Servicing Your F-Series
%*
[SV00300( ALL)03/95]
Service Made Easy
*
[SV00400(BEF )01/95]
Ford has two goals for servicing your vehicle.
*
[SV00500(BEF )01/95]
1. When we can, we design parts that do not
need to be serviced.
*
[SV00600(BEF )01/95]
2. We want to make servicing your vehicle as
easy as possible. To help you:
*
[SV00700(BEF )01/95]
q
We highlight do-it-yourself items in yellow in
the engine compartment so that you can find
them easily.
*
[SV00800(BEF )01/95]
q
When possible, we design parts Ð such as
the headlamp bulbs Ð that can be replaced
without tools.
*
[SV00900(BEF )05/94]
q
We give you a Maintenance Schedule that
makes tracking routine service for your
vehicle easy. The maintenance schedule is
located in theMaintenance Schedule and Record
booklet.
*
[SV01000( ALL)01/95]
This chapter tells you about the basic parts that
you need to check and service regularly.
*
[SV01100( ALL)02/95]
If your vehicle needs professional servicing, your
dealership can provide the parts and service
required. Check yourWarranty Information Booklet
to find out which parts and services are covered.
Also see theCustomer Assistancechapter of this
Owner Guide.
*
[SV01300( ALL)03/95]
Ford Motor Company recommends that the
Owner Maintenance Checks listed in the
Maintenance Schedule and Recordbooklet be
performed for the proper operation of your
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

302vehicle. In addition to the conditions listed in
theOwner Maintenance Checklist, be alert for any
unusual noise, vibration, or other indication that
your vehicle may need service. If you do notice
something unusual, see that your vehicle is
serviced promptly.
*
[SV01600(BEF )03/95]
Precautions When Servicing Your
Vehicle
*
[SV01700(BEF )01/95]
Be especially careful when inspecting or
servicing your vehicle. Here are some general
precautions for your safety:
*
[SV01900( ALL)03/95]
q
If you must work with the engine running,
avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that
could get caught in moving parts. Take
appropriate precautions with long hair.
*
[SV02000(BEF )01/95]
q
Do not work on a vehicle in an enclosed
space with the engine running, unless you are
sure you have enough ventilation.
*
[SV02100(BEF )01/95]
q
Never get under a vehicle while it is
supported by a jack only. If you must work
under a vehicle, use safety stands.
*
[SV02200(BEF )01/95]
q
Keep all lit cigarettes and other smoking
materials away from the battery and all
fuel-related parts.
*
[SV02500( ALL)03/95]
If you disconnect the battery, the engine must
ªrelearnº its idle conditions before your vehicle
will drive properly. To find out how the engine
does this, seeBatteryin this chapter.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

319
*
[SV12300(BEF )05/95]
Comparisons With EPA Fuel Economy
Estimates
*
[SV12400(BEF )05/95]
EPA fuel economy figures are obtained from
laboratory tests under simulated road conditions
and may not reflect the actual conditions you
experience or your style of driving. The EPA
fuel economy estimate is not a guarantee that
you will achieve the fuel economy shown.
*
[SV12450( F )03/93]
NOTE: There are no EPA fuel economy
estimates for vehicles over 8500 lbs.
(3,855 kg) GVW.
*
[SV12500( ALL)05/95]
Improving Fuel Economy
*
[SV12600( ALL)05/95]
Fuel economy is affected by a number of
variables which can reduce efficiency. You can
improve fuel economy by understanding these
variables and minimizing their effect.
*
[SV12700( ALL)05/95]
The following decrease fuel economy:
*
[SV12800( ALL)05/95]
q
Lack of regular, scheduled maintenance
*
[SV12900( ALL)05/95]
q
Driving with your foot on the brake
*
[SV13000( ALL)05/95]
q
Sudden stops
*
[SV13100( ALL)05/95]
q
Excessive speed
*
[SV13200( ALL)05/95]
q
Extended engine idling
*
[SV13300( ALL)05/95]
q
Heavy loads
*
[SV13400( ALL)05/95]
q
Underinflated tires
*
[SV13500(BEF )05/95]
q
Extended use of the A/C, defroster, rear
window defroster and other accessories
*
[SV13550(BEF )05/95]
q
Aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or
luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

320
*
[SV13600( ALL)02/95]
Engine Oil Recommendations
*
[SV13610( ALL)04/95]
We recommend using Motorcraft oil or an
equivalent oil meeting Ford Specification
ESE-M2C153-E and displaying the American
Petroleum Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on
the front of the container.
*
[SV13655( ALL)03/95]
one third page art:0060020-D
The API Certification Mark
*
[SV13670( ALL)01/95]
Neveruse:
*
[SV13680( ALL)01/95]
q
ªNon-Detergentº oils
*
[SV13690( ALL)04/95]
q
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
%*
[SV13700( ALL)01/95]
q
Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments
or engine treatments
[SV13705( EF )04/95]
For vehicles with 5.8L engines.
*
[SV13710(BEF )03/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity are
PREFERREDfor your vehicle. They provide the
best engine performance, fuel economy and
engine protection for all climates down to-15ÊF
(-25ÊC).
%*
[SV13725( ALL)03/95]
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and
of the preferred viscosity may be used in your
engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be
changed according to the maintenance schedule.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

321
*
[SV13730( EF )01/93]
For vehicles with 4.9L, 5.0L or 7.5L engines
[SV13740( ALL)04/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 10W-30viscosity are
PREFERREDfor your vehicle which provide the
best engine protection for all climates down to
-5ÊF (-20ÊC). SAE5W-30 engine oils may also be
used down to-15ÊF (-25ÊC).
[SV13745( ALL)02/95]
Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and
of the preferred viscosity may be used in your
engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be
changed according to the maintenance schedule.
*
[SV13775( ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV13800( ALL)03/95]
Since the proper amount of engine oil is
important for safe engine operation, check the oil
using the dipstick each time you put fuel in
your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
parked on level ground.
*
[SV13900( ALL)03/95]
Checking the engine oil level:
*
[SV14000( ALL)02/95]
1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up
and allow a few minutes for the engine oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
*
[SV14050(B F )03/95]
2. Set the parking brake, making sure that the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park)
(automatic transmission) or 1 (First) (manual
transmission).
*
[SV14100( ALL)02/95]
3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine
heat.
*
[SV14200( ALL)03/95]
4. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in
yellow) and carefully pull it out of the
engine.
*
[SV14300( ALL)01/95]
5. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into
position, making sure it is fully seated.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

324
*
[SV16700( EF )06/93]
If your vehicle is over 8500 GVWR and the
above conditions do not apply, change the
engine oil and oil filter every 6 months or 5,000
miles (8,000 km), whichever comes first.
*
[SV16800( ALL)04/95]
Refer to theMaintenance Schedule and Record
booklet for additional information.
*
[SV16900( EF )03/94]
NOTE: Refer to thePower Stroke Diesel Engine
Owner's Guide Supplementfor oil
viscosity, filter application and oil and
filter change intervals.
%*
[SV17250( ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive
fluids in a responsible manner. Follow
your community's standards for
disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out
about recycling automotive fluids.
*
[SV17275( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil
has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
*
[SV17280( ALL)05/95]
Protect your skin by washing with soap and
water.
*
[SV17300( ALL)03/95]
Engine Coolant
*
[SV17400( ALL)02/95]
Checking the engine coolant
*
[SV17700( ALL)10/89]
Your vehicle's engine coolant protects the engine
from overheating in the summer and from
freezing in the winter. Check the level of the
engine coolant at least once a month, but
preferably each time you stop for fuel. Simply
look at the engine coolant recovery reservoir
located in the engine compartment. To locate
this reservoir, see the diagram of your vehicle's
engine underEngine typesin this chapter.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

333
*
[SV25500(BEF )02/95]
q
Stay within the recommended load limits (see
Load limitsin the Index).
*
[SV25600( ALL)02/95]
q
Make sure the weight of your load is evenly
distributed.
*
[SV25700( ALL)10/89]
q
Drive at safe speeds.
*
[SV25800( ALL)01/95]
If you do not take these precautions, your tires
may fail or go flat.
*
[SV25875( ALL)05/95]
Ford Motor Company recommends obeying
posted speed limits.
*
[SV25900( 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.
*
[SV26000( ALL)03/95]
Checking the pressure of the tires
*
[SV26100( ALL)11/89]
At least once a month, check the pressure in all
your vehicle's tires, including the spare. Use an
accurate tire pressure gauge. Check the tire
pressure when tires are cold, that is, after the
vehicle has been parked for at least one hour or
has been driven less than 3 miles (5 km). You
can find the proper cold pressure on the Safety
Compliance Certification Label.
*
[SV26150( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle
handling and can fail suddenly, possibly
resulting in loss of vehicle control.
*
[SV26200( ALL)02/95]
Tire inspection and maintenance
*
[SV26300( ALL)02/95]
Inspect the tire treads, and remove stones, nails,
glass or other objects that may be wedged in the
tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

334permit air to leak from the tire, and make the
necessary repairs.
*
[SV26400( ALL)10/89]
Inspect the tire side walls for cuts, bruises and
other damage. If you suspect internal damage to
the tire, have it demounted and checked. You
may need to repair or replace it.
*
[SV26410( ALL)11/89]
Wheel inspection and maintenance
*
[SV26420( ALL)11/89]
Check for damage that would affect the runout
of the wheels. Wobble or shimmy will eventually
damage the wheel bearings.
*
[SV26430( ALL)06/93]
Front wheel bearings require periodic repacking
and adjustment as specified in theMaintenance
Schedule and Recordbooklet. Loose or worn front
wheel bearings tend to let the vehicle wander or
shimmy, and can eventually cause excessive tire
wear.
[SV26435( ALL)05/95]
Whenever a wheel is removed and then
re-installed, always remove any corrosion that
may be present on the mounting surface of the
wheel and/or the surface of the hub, drum or
rotor that contacts the wheel.
*
[SV26440( ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Installing wheels without good
metal-to-metal contact at the wheel
mounting surface can cause the wheel lug
nuts to loosen and could allow the wheel
to come off while the vehicle is in motion.
*
[SV26445( EFM)05/90]
Also retighten at 500 miles (800 km) after
any wheel change or any time the lug
nuts are loosened.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

335
*
[SV26450(BEF )03/95]
Traction-Lok Rear Axle (If equipped)
*
[SV26460(BEF )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.
*
[SV26470(BEF )05/95]
RWARNING
To avoid injury, never run the engine
with one wheel off the ground, such as
when changing a tire.
%*
[SV26500( ALL)02/95]
Tire Rotation
*
[SV26600( ALL)03/95]
Because your vehicle's front and rear tires
perform different jobs, they often wear
differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly
and last longer, rotate them at the mileage
shown in theMaintenance Schedule and Record
booklet which came with your vehicle.
*
[SV26625( F )03/93]
For F-250 (over 8500 GVWR [3,855 kg]), F-350
and Super Duty vehicles, rotate the tires at 5,000
miles (8,000 km), then at 15,000 miles
(24,000 km), and then every 15,000 miles
(24,000 km) thereafter.
*
[SV26660( EF )03/94]
If your light truck has dual rear wheels, you can
rotate the front tires side to side without
disturbing the rear tires.
*
[SV26700(BEF )07/92]
Rotate the tires according to the following
diagram. If you notice that the tires wear
unevenly, have them checked. If your light truck
has a temporary spare tire, do not include it in
the tire rotation pattern.
*
[SV26750(BEF )03/90]
In situations where the tires differ from front to
rear (snow/traction), simply rotate using a side
to side pattern.
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com

342
*
[SV31993( F )04/95]
2. You can brighten the wheels, even after
years of use, with readily-available buffing
compounds, such as Ford Custom Bright
Metal Cleaner or equivalent. Follow the
buffing instructions that come with the
compound.
*
[SV31995( F )04/95]
3. When tires are removed, the entire wheel
must be cleaned and inspected. Remove any
soil or oxidation products from the tire side
of the rim with a wire brush.
*
[SV31997( F )04/95]
4. Aluminum alloys resist corrosion. This is
why your Forged F-350 Aluminum Wheels
never need sanding or painting. However,
certain environments can lead to corrosion:
salt, chloride compounds used for snow
removal and highly alkaline materials. Wash
corrosives elements off the wheel before they
have time to react.
*
[SV32100( ALL)03/95]
Battery
*
[SV32200( ALL)02/95]
Your vehicle may have a Motorcraft
maintenance-free battery. When the original
equipment battery is replaced under warranty, it
may be replaced by a Motorcraft
Low-Maintenance Battery.
*
[SV32500( ALL)02/95]
The Low-Maintenance Battery has removable
vent caps for checking the electrolyte level and
for adding water, if necessary. The electrolyte
level should be checked at least every 24 months
or 24,000 miles (40,000 km) in temperatures up
to 90ÊF (32ÊC) andmore often in temperatures
above90ÊF (32ÊC).Keep the electrolyte level in
each cell up to the level indicator. Do not
overfill.
*
[SV32700( ALL)02/95]
If the level gets low, you can add tap water to
the battery, provided the water isn't hard or
doesn't have a high mineral or alkali content.
However, if possible you should refill the battery
File:ltsvf.ex
Update:Thu May 9 15:30:19 1996
ProCarManuals.com