light FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: FORD, Model Year: 1997, Model line: F250, Model: FORD F250 1997Pages: 377, PDF Size: 3.92 MB
Page 265 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 266 [MC07900(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021609-AEngine oil dipstick (5.8L engine)
[MC07910(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021601-A
Engine oil dipstick (7.5L engine)
*
[MC08000(FM)01/96]
6. Carefully, pu FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 266 [MC07900(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021609-AEngine oil dipstick (5.8L engine)
[MC07910(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021601-A
Engine oil dipstick (7.5L engine)
*
[MC08000(FM)01/96]
6. Carefully, pu](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-264.png)
266 [MC07900(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021609-AEngine oil dipstick (5.8L engine)
[MC07910(FM)05/96]
quarter page art:0021601-A
Engine oil dipstick (7.5L engine)
*
[MC08000(FM)01/96]
6. Carefully, pull the dipstick out again. If the
oil level is below the ªADD 1 QT.º line, add
engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is
beyond the letter ªFº in FULL, engine
damage or high oil consumption may occur
and some oil must be removed from the
engine.
*
[MC08100(FM)01/96]
7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is
fully seated.
*
[MC08200(FM)01/96]
It may be necessary to add some oil between oil
changes. Make sure you use a CERTIFIED
engine oil of the preferred viscosity. Your
vehicle's warranty coverage may not apply if
engine damage is caused by the use of improper
engine oil.
*
[MC08300(FM)01/96]
Add engine oil through the oil filler cap
highlighted in yellow. To add oil, remove the
filler cap and use a funnel to pour oil into the
opening. Be careful not to overfill the engine.
Recheck the oil level after you finish adding oil.
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Page 267 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 268 [MC09000(F )04/96]If 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.
*
[MC09100(FM)02/96]
Refer to theMaint FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 268 [MC09000(F )04/96]If 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.
*
[MC09100(FM)02/96]
Refer to theMaint](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-266.png)
268 [MC09000(F )04/96]If 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.
*
[MC09100(FM)02/96]
Refer to theMaintenance Schedulebooklet for
additional information.
[MC09200(F )04/96]
NOTE: Refer to thePower Stroke Diesel Engine
Owner's Guide Supplementfor oil
viscosity, filter application and oil and
filter change intervals.
%*
[MC09300(FM)04/96]
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.
*
[MC09400(FM)01/96]
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil
has caused cancer in laboratory mice.
*
[MC09500(FM)01/96]
Protect your skin by washing with soap and
water.
%
*
[MC09600(FM)01/96]
Brake Fluid
*
[MC09625(FM)01/96]
Your vehicle is equipped with a brake fluid level
indicator in the master cylinder which lights the
BRAKE warning light on the instrument panel
when the brake fluid level is low.
*
[MC09650(FM)01/96]
Under normal circumstances, your vehicle
should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However,
expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall
as you put more mileage on your vehicle and
the brake lining wears.
*
[MC09675(FM)01/96]
Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You
can do this by looking at the fluid level in the
plastic brake fluid reservoir on the master
cylinder. The fluid level should be at or near the
MAX mark.
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Page 279 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 280
%*
[MC18300(FM)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC18350(FM)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at
least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
*
[MC18400(FM)01/96]
To check the l FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 280
%*
[MC18300(FM)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC18350(FM)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at
least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
*
[MC18400(FM)01/96]
To check the l](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-278.png)
280
%*
[MC18300(FM)01/96]
Power Steering Fluid
*
[MC18350(FM)01/96]
Check the level of the power steering fluid at
least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
*
[MC18400(FM)01/96]
To check the level of your power steering fluid:
*
[MC18450(FM)04/96]
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.
*
[MC18500(FM)01/96]
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.
*
[MC18550(F )01/96]
3. Turn the engine off.
%*
[MC18650(FM)01/96]
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.
*
[MC18700(FM)01/96]
one third page art:0021016-B
Power steering dipstick
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Page 294 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 295
*
[MC31200(FM)01/96]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
*
[MC31300(FM)01/ FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 295
*
[MC31200(FM)01/96]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
*
[MC31300(FM)01/](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-293.png)
295
*
[MC31200(FM)01/96]
NOTE: If you replace your fuel cap with an
aftermarket fuel filler cap, the customer
warranty may be void for any damage
to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.
*
[MC31300(FM)01/96]
RWARNING
The fuel system may be under pressure. If
the fuel cap is venting vapor or if you
hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops
before completely removing the cap.
*
[MC31400(F )01/96]
A venting fuel tank is not an abnormal
condition. It may be caused by:
*
[MC31500(F )01/96]
q
Too volatile a fuel for the weather conditions.
The service stations sometimes sell winter
grade fuel in the summer.
*
[MC31600(F )01/96]
q
Pulling a heavy load on hot days, or at high
altitudes.
*
[MC31700(F )01/96]
q
Extended periods of idling with the engine
RPM increased above the normal idle range.
*
[MC31800(F )01/96]
q
Parking vehicle in full sunlight for extended
periods on extremely hot days.
%*
[MC32000(FM)01/96]
Choosing the Right Fuel
[MC32100(F )04/96]
NOTE: Read the7.3L Diesel Engine Owner
Guide Supplementfor information
regarding correct fuel requirements for
your diesel-powered vehicle.
*
[MC32200(FM)03/96]
Use only UNLEADED FUEL. Using leaded fuel
is prohibited by federal law and could damage
your vehicle. The damage may not be covered
by your warranty.
*
[MC32250(FM)04/96]
Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel
containing manganese-based additives such as
MMT. Additionally, vehicles certified to
California emission standards (indicated on the
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Page 295 of 377

296underhood Vehicle Emissions Control
Information label) are designed to operate on
California reformulated gasolines. If California
reformulated gasoline is not available when you
refuel, your vehicle can be operated on
non-California fuels. However, even though your
engine will perform adequately on other
gasolines, the performance of the emission
control devices and systems may be adversely
affected. Repair of damage caused by using a
fuel that your vehicle was not designed for may
not be covered by your warranty.
%*
[MC32400(FM)04/96]
Octane recommendation
*
[MC32500(FM)03/96]
Your vehicle is designed to use regular
unleaded gasoline with an (R+M)/2 octane
rating of 87. We do not recommend gasolines
labeled ªregularº in high altitude areas that are
sold with octane ratings of 86 or even less.
*
[MC32600(FM)01/96]
one inch art:0060001-C
Typical octane rating label
%*
[MC32800(FM)03/96]
Do not be concerned if your vehicle sometimes
knocks lightly. However, if it knocks heavily
under most driving conditions on the
recommended octane rated fuel, see your dealer
or a qualified service technician to prevent any
engine damage.
%*
[MC32900(FM)04/96]
Fuel quality
*
[MC33000(FM)03/96]
If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or
hesitation problems, try a different brand of fuel.
If the condition persists, see your dealer or a
qualified service technician.
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Page 302 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 303
*
[MC39175(FM)01/96]
RWARNING
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 sta FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 303
*
[MC39175(FM)01/96]
RWARNING
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 sta](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-301.png)
303
*
[MC39175(FM)01/96]
RWARNING
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.
*
[MC39200(F )01/96]
RWARNING
On vehicles without original equipment
floor covering or insulation, do not let
passengers ride in your truck in a manner
that allows contact between skin and the
metal floor.
*
[MC39225(FM)01/96]
If other than Ford or Motorcraft or Ford
authorized remanufactured parts are used for
maintenance, replacement, or for the service of
components affecting emissions control, the
owner should be assured that such parts are
warranted by their manufacturer to be
equivalent to genuine Ford Motor Company
parts in performance and durability. Please
consult your warranty information booklet for
complete warranty information.
*
[MC39250(F )01/96]
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke, loss
of oil pressure, the charge warning light, the
check engine light, or the temperature warning
light. These sometimes indicate that the emission
system is not working properly.
*
[MC39275(FM)01/96]
Do not make any unauthorized changes to your
vehicle or engine. Changes that cause more
unburned fuel to reach the exhaust system can
increase the temperature of the engine or
exhaust system.
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Page 306 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 307
%*
[MC41200(F )03/96]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[MC41250(F )01/96]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[MC41300(F )01/96]
q
headlamps
*
[MC41350(F )0 FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 307
%*
[MC41200(F )03/96]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[MC41250(F )01/96]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[MC41300(F )01/96]
q
headlamps
*
[MC41350(F )0](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-305.png)
307
%*
[MC41200(F )03/96]
Lights and Bulb Replacement
*
[MC41250(F )01/96]
It is a good idea to check the operation of the
following lights frequently:
*
[MC41300(F )01/96]
q
headlamps
*
[MC41350(F )01/96]
q
tail lamps
*
[MC41400(F )01/96]
q
brakelamps
*
[MC41450(F )01/96]
q
high-mount brakelamp
*
[MC41500(F )01/96]
q
hazard flasher
*
[MC41550(F )01/96]
q
turn signals
*
[MC41600(F )05/96]
q
license plate lamps
%*
[MC41650(F )01/96]
The alignment of your headlamps should be
checked if:
*
[MC41700(F )01/96]
q
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to
turn off your vehicle's high beams when you
do not have the high beams on
*
[MC41750(F )01/96]
q
the headlamps do not seem to give you
enough light to see clearly at night
*
[MC41800(F )01/96]
q
the headlamp beams are pointed substantially
away from a position slightly down and to
the right
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Page 312 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 313 %
*
[MC49100(F )01/96]
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
*
[MC49200(F )01/96]
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the
underside, with a mild detergent.
*
[MC49300(F )01/96]
DO NOT:
*
[MC4 FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 313 %
*
[MC49100(F )01/96]
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
*
[MC49200(F )01/96]
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the
underside, with a mild detergent.
*
[MC49300(F )01/96]
DO NOT:
*
[MC4](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-311.png)
313 %
*
[MC49100(F )01/96]
Washing and Polishing Your Vehicle
*
[MC49200(F )01/96]
Wash the outside of your vehicle, including the
underside, with a mild detergent.
*
[MC49300(F )01/96]
DO NOT:
*
[MC49400(F )01/96]
q
Wash your vehicle with hot water
*
[MC49500(F )01/96]
q
Wash your vehicle while it sits in direct
sunlight
*
[MC49600(F )01/96]
q
Wash your vehicle while the body is hot
*
[MC49700(F )01/96]
Polish your vehicle to remove harmful deposits
and protect the finish.
%*
[MC49800(F )01/96]
Cleaning Chrome and Aluminum Parts
[MC49900(F )04/96]
Wash chrome and aluminum parts with the
same detergent you use to wash the vehicle
body, such as Ford Premium Car Wash
Concentrate. You can use Ford Extra Strength
Tar and Road Oil Remover or equivalent to
clean grease, oil, and tar from chrome-plated
parts, including wheelcovers, aluminum wheels,
bumpers, or anodized aluminum parts.
%*
[MC50000(F )01/96]
Cleaning Plastic Parts
*
[MC50100(F )01/96]
Some of your vehicle's exterior trim parts are
plastic. Clean with a tar and road oil remover if
necessary. Use a vinyl cleaner for routine
cleaning.
*
[MC50200(F )01/96]
Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents
or petroleum-based cleaners.
%*
[MC50300(F )01/96]
If you have your vehicle rustproofed, remove
oversprayed rustproofing with a tar and road oil
remover. If rustproofing is not removed from
plastic and rubber parts, it can cause
deterioration.
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Page 329 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 330
%*
[CS02660(FM)01/96]
Vehicle Storage
*
[CS02670(FM)01/96]
Maintenance Tips
*
[CS02680(FM)01/96]
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an
extended period of time (60 days or more), refer
to the FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 330
%*
[CS02660(FM)01/96]
Vehicle Storage
*
[CS02670(FM)01/96]
Maintenance Tips
*
[CS02680(FM)01/96]
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an
extended period of time (60 days or more), refer
to the](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-328.png)
330
%*
[CS02660(FM)01/96]
Vehicle Storage
*
[CS02670(FM)01/96]
Maintenance Tips
*
[CS02680(FM)01/96]
If you plan on storing your vehicle for an
extended period of time (60 days or more), refer
to the following maintenance recommendations
to ensure your vehicle stays in good operating
condition.
*
[CS02690(FM)01/96]
General
*
[CS02700(FM)01/96]
q
Store all vehicles in a dry, ventilated place.
*
[CS02710(FM)01/96]
q
Protect from sunlight, if possible.
*
[CS02720(FM)01/96]
q
If vehicles are stored outside, they require
regular maintenance to protect against rust
and damage.
*
[CS02730(FM)01/96]
Body
*
[CS02740(FM)01/96]
q
Wash vehicle thoroughly to remove dirt,
grease, oil, tar or mud from exterior surfaces,
rear wheel housing and underside of front
fenders.
*
[CS02750(FM)01/96]
q
Periodically wash vehicles stored in exposed
locations.
*
[CS02760(FM)01/96]
q
Touch-up raw or primed metal to prevent
rust.
*
[CS02770(FM)01/96]
q
Cover chrome and stainless steel parts with a
thick coat of auto wax to prevent
discoloration. Re-wax as necessary when the
vehicle is washed.
*
[CS02780(FM)01/96]
q
Lubricate all hood, door and trunk lid hinges
and latches with a light grade oil.
*
[CS02790(FM)01/96]
q
Cover interior soft trim to prevent fading.
*
[CS02800(FM)01/96]
q
Keep all rubber parts free from oil and
solvents.
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Page 331 of 377
![FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 332 %
*
[CS02920(FM)01/96]
Battery
*
[CS02930(FM)01/96]
q
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[CS02940(FM)01/96]
q
Keep connections clean and covered with a
light coat of grease.
%*
[CS02950(FM)01/96]
FORD F250 1997 Repair Manual 332 %
*
[CS02920(FM)01/96]
Battery
*
[CS02930(FM)01/96]
q
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[CS02940(FM)01/96]
q
Keep connections clean and covered with a
light coat of grease.
%*
[CS02950(FM)01/96]](/img/11/57800/w960_57800-330.png)
332 %
*
[CS02920(FM)01/96]
Battery
*
[CS02930(FM)01/96]
q
Check and recharge as necessary.
*
[CS02940(FM)01/96]
q
Keep connections clean and covered with a
light coat of grease.
%*
[CS02950(FM)01/96]
Brakes
*
[CS02960(FM)01/96]
q
Make sure brakes and parking brake are fully
released.
%*
[CS02970(FM)01/96]
Tires
*
[CS02980(FM)03/96]
q
Maintain recommended air pressures.
*
[CS02990(FM)01/96]
Miscellaneous
*
[CS03000(FM)01/96]
q
Make sure all linkages, cables, levers and
clevis pins under vehicle are covered with
grease to prevent rust.
*
[CS03010(FM)01/96]
q
Move vehicles at least 25 feet (10 m) every 15
days to lubricate working parts to prevent
corrosion.
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