warning FORD F250 2002 Owner's Manual

Using ABS
When hard braking is required, apply continuous force on the brake
pedal; do not pump the brake pedal since this will reduce the
effectiveness of the ABS and will increase your vehicle’s stopping
distance. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain
full steering control during hard braking and on slippery surfaces.
However, the ABS does not decrease stopping distance.
Parking brake
To set the parking brake, press the
parking brake pedal down until the
pedal stops. The BRAKE warning
lamp in the instrument cluster
illuminates and remains illuminated
until the parking brake is released.
To release the brake, pull the
release lever. to prevent the pedal
from releasing too quickly, place
your left foot on the parking brake
pedal, then pull the release lever,
making sure the pedal fully releases.
You may want to pull the release
lever again to make sure the parking
brake is full released.
Always set the parking
brake fully and make sure
that the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park) (automatic
transmission) or in 1 (First)
(manual transmission).
Note:If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, the engine
may be required to run while power accessories operate and the parking
brake is set. It is recommended that wheel chocks be used during this
operation.
If you’re parking your vehicle on a grade or with a trailer, press and hold
the brake pedal down, then set the parking brake. There may be a little
vehicle movement as the parking brake sets to hold the vehicle’s weight.
This is normal and should be no reason for concern. If needed, press and
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Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps
are working.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and
remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp
remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
See your dealer or a qualified service technician.
Understanding the gearshift positions of the 4–speed automatic
transmission
P (Park)
This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from
turning.
To put your vehicle in gear:
•Start the engine
•Depress the brake pedal
•Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear
To put your vehicle in P (Park):
•Come to a complete stop
•Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and
remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
R (Reverse)
With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward.
Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R
(Reverse).
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Parking your vehicle
1. Apply the brake and shift into the neutral position.
2. Fully apply the parking brake, then shift into 1 (First).
3. Turn the ignition off.
Do not park your vehicle in Neutral, it may move unexpectedly
and injure someone. Use 1 (First) gear and set the parking brake
fully.
Removing the key
Turn the ignition off, push the release lever (located above the ignition),
then turn the key toward you and remove the key.
REVERSE SENSING SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
The Reverse Sensing System (RSS) sounds a tone to warn the driver of
obstacles near the rear bumper when the R (Reverse) is selected and the
vehicle is moving at speeds less than 5 km/h (3 mph). The system is not
effective at speeds above 5 km/h (3 mph) and may not detect certain
angular or moving objects.
To help avoid personal injury, please read and understand the
limitations of the reverse sensing system as contained in this
section. Reverse sensing is only an aid for some (generally large and
fixed) objects when moving in reverse on a flat surface at “parking
speeds”. Inclement weather may also affect the function of the RSS;
this may include reduced performance or a false activation.
To help avoid personal injury, always use caution when in
reverse and when using the RSS.
This system is not designed to prevent contact with small or
moving objects. The system is designed to provide a warning to
assist the driver in detecting large stationary objects to avoid damaging
the vehicle. The system may not detect smaller objects, particularly
those close to the ground.
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If your vehicle gets stuck
If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by
shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a
steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.
Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating
temperature or damage to the transmission may occur.
Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage
to the transmission and tires may occur or the engine may
overheat.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is
latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and
remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.
If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp
remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.
See your dealer or a qualified service technician.
Do not spin the wheels at over 56 km/h (35 mph). The tires may
fail and injure a passenger or bystander.
Refer toTransmission temperature gaugein theInstrument cluster
chapter for transmission fluid temperature information.
Emergency maneuvers
•In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn
must be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle, i.e.,
turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid
the emergency. Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control,
not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or
brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are
called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could
result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover
and/or personal injury. Use all available road surface to return the
vehicle to a safe direction of travel.
•In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not
attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.
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•Four-wheel-drive operation (if equipped) is less fuel efficient than
two-wheel-drive operation.
•Close windows for high speed driving.
EPA window sticker
Every new vehicle should have the EPA window sticker. Contact your
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 L/100 km (MPG)
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:
•Use only the specified fuel listed.
•Avoid running out of fuel.
•Do not turn off the ignition while your vehicle is moving, especially at
high speeds.
•Have the items listed in your scheduled maintenance guide performed
according to the specified schedule.
The scheduled maintenance items listed in the scheduled maintenance
guide are 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 “Service Engine Soon” light, 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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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.
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 “Check Engine/Service Engine
Soon” light is on, refer to the description in theWarning lights and
chimessection of theInstrument clusterchapter. Your vehicle may not
pass the I/M test with the “Check Engine/Service Engine Soon” light on.
If the vehicle’s powertrain system or its battery has just been serviced,
the on-board diagnostics system is reset to a “not ready for I/M test”
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:
•First, at least 10 minutes of driving on an expressway or highway.
•Next, 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.
Maintenance and Specifications
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Tire inflation information
The F450 and F550 vehicles are equipped with a tire that is an all-steel
radial. All-steel radial tires utilize steel cords in the sidewalls, and also
require increased inflation pressures of up to 95 psi. As such, they
cannot be treated like normal light truck tires. Tire service, including
adjusting tire pressure, must be performed by personnel trained,
supervised and equipped according to Federal Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. For example, during any
procedure involving tire inflation, the technician or individual must
utilize a remote inflation device, and insure that all persons are clear of
the trajectory area.
WARNINGAn inflated tire and rim can be very dangerous if
improperly used, serviced or maintained. To avoid serious injury,
never attempt to re-inflate a tire which has been run flat or seriously
under-inflated without first removing the tire from the wheel assembly
for inspection. Do not attempt to add air to tires or replace tires or
wheels without first taking precautions to protect persons and
property.
Tire rotation
Because your vehicle’s tires perform different jobs, they often wear
differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotate
them as indicated in the scheduled maintenance guide. If you notice that
the tires wear unevenly, have them checked.
The following procedure applies to vehicles equipped with single rear
wheel.
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A
Accessory delay ..........................48
Air bag supplemental restraint
system ..........................................82
and child safety seats ..............83
description ................................82
disposal ......................................86
driver air bag ............................84
indicator light ...........................85
operation ...................................84
passenger air bag .....................84
passenger deactivation
switch ........................................86
Air cleaner filter .......226–227, 234
Ambulance packages ....................6
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................204
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ......................106–107
Audio system
(see Radio) ................17, 19, 22, 26
Automatic transmission ............109
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................110
fluid, adding ............................222
fluid, checking ........................222
fluid, refill capacities ..............234
fluid, specification ..................240
Auxiliary power point .................47
Axle
lubricant specifications ..237, 240
refill capacities ........................234
traction lok ..............................108
B
Battery .......................................202
acid, treating emergencies .....202jumping a disabled battery ....174
maintenance-free ....................202
replacement, specifications ...234
servicing ..................................202
BeltMinder ...................................77
Brakes ........................................105
anti-lock ...........................105–107
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................106
fluid, checking and adding ....221
fluid, refill capacities ..............234
fluid, specifications .........237, 240
lubricant specifications ..237, 240
parking ....................................107
pedals (see Power adjustable
foot pedals) ...............................49
shift interlock ..........................109
Break-in period .............................4
Bulbs ............................................39
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....234
Cassette tape player ...................26
CD changer .................................28
CD-single premium .........17, 19, 22
Certification Label ....................249
Child safety restraints ................91
child safety belts ......................91
Child safety seats ........................93
attaching with tether straps ....97
in front seat ..............................95
in rear seat ................................95
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............191
instrument panel ....................193
interior .....................................193
plastic parts ............................192
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Instrument panel
cleaning ...................................193
cluster ........................................10
lighting up panel and
interior .......................................38
J
Jump-starting your vehicle ......174
K
Keyless entry system
autolock .....................................63
Keys
positions of the ignition .........101
L
Lamps
autolamp system .......................36
bulb replacement
specifications chart ..................39
cargo lamps ...............................38
daytime running light ...............37
fog lamps ...................................37
headlamps .................................36
headlamps, flash to pass ..........38
instrument panel, dimming .....38
interior lamps ...........................39
replacing bulbs ...................39–44
Lane change indicator
(see Turn signal) ........................38
Lights, warning and indicator ....10
anti-lock brakes (ABS) ..........106
speed control ............................52
Load limits .................................128
GAWR ......................................128
GVWR ......................................128
trailer towing ..........................128
Loading instructions .................130Locks
autolock .....................................63
childproof ..................................59
Lubricant specifications ...237, 240
Lumbar support, seats ...............69
M
Manual transmission .................112
fluid capacities ........................234
lubricant specifications ..........240
reverse .....................................113
Message center ...........................53
english/metric button ...............54
menu button .............................54
Mirrors .........................................46
fold away ...................................49
side view mirrors (power) .......49
Motorcraft parts ................214, 234
O
Octane rating ............................213
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................199
P
Parking brake ............................107
Parts (see Motorcraft parts) ....234
Pedals (see Power adjustable
foot pedals) .................................49
Power distribution box
(see Fuses) ...............................161
Power door locks ..................58, 63
Power point .................................47
Power steering ..........................108
fluid, checking and adding ....220
fluid, refill capacity ................234
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fluid, specifications .........237, 240
Preparing to drive
your vehicle ...............................108
R
Radio ..........................17, 19, 22, 26
Relays ........................................160
Remote entry system .................60
illuminated entry ......................63
locking/unlocking doors ...........58
Reverse sensing system ...........114
Roadside assistance ..................158
S
Safety belts (see Safety
restraints) ........................70–73, 75
Safety defects, reporting ..........189
Safety restraints ....................70–75
belt minder ...............................77
cleaning the safety belts ..........81
extension assembly ..................81
for adults .............................71–73
for children .........................90–91
lap belt ......................................76
warning light and chime ..........77
Safety seats for children ............93
Seat belts
(see Safety restraints) ...............70
Seats ............................................65
child safety seats ......................93
Servicing your vehicle ..............196
Snowplowing .................6, 154–156
Spare tire (see Changing
the Tire) ....................................165Spark plugs,
specifications .............234, 240–241
Special notice ................................7
ambulance conversions ..............6
diesel-powered vehicles .............5
four-wheel drive
vehicles ............................156–157
utility-type vehicles ....................6
Specification chart,
lubricants ...........................237, 240
Speed control ..............................50
Starting your
vehicle ........................101–102, 104
jump starting ..........................174
Steering wheel
tilting .........................................46
T
Tailgate ........................................57
Tires ...................................227–229
changing ..........................165, 167
checking the pressure ............229
replacing ..................................232
rotating ....................................230
snow tires and chains ............233
tire grades ...............................228
treadwear ................................228
Towing .......................................130
trailer towing ..........................130
wrecker ....................................179
Traction-lok rear axle ...............108
Transfer case
fluid checking .........................226
Transmission
automatic operation ...............109
fluid, checking and adding
(automatic) .............................222
Index
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