instrument panel FORD F250 2008 Owner's Manual

into four-wheel drive mode (if equipped), the traction control system will
be automatically disabled. Traction control operation will resume when
the vehicle is placed back into two-wheel drive mode.
Aggressive driving in any road conditions can cause you to lose
control of your vehicle increasing the risk of severe personal
injury or property damage. The occurrence of a Traction Control™
event is an indication that at least some of the tires have exceeded
their ability to grip the road; this may lead to an increased risk of loss
of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. If you
experience a severe road event, SLOW DOWN.
The Traction Control™ switch,
located on the instrument panel to
the left of the climate control
system, has an indicator light that
illuminates when the system is off.
The Traction Control™ system will
automatically turn on every time the
ignition is turned off and on. The
Traction Control™ system should normally be left on.
If you should become stuck in snow or ice or on a very slippery road
surface, try switching the Traction Control™ system off. This may allow
excess wheel spin to “dig” the vehicle out and enable a successful
“rocking” maneuver.
If a system fault is detected, the traction control active light will
illuminate, the Traction Control™ button will not turn the system on or
off and your vehicle should be serviced by an authorized dealer.
STEERING
To help prevent damage to the power steering system:
•Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it
stops) for more than three to five seconds when the engine is running.
•Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level
(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).
•Some noise is normal during operation. If excessive, check for low
power steering pump fluid level before seeking service by your dealer.
•Heavy or uneven efforts may be caused by low power steering fluid.
Check for low power steering pump fluid level before seeking service
by your dealer.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
263

Manual Shift On Stop (MSOS) 4x4 system (if equipped)
The 4WD system is engaged or
disengaged by rotating the control
for both front wheel hub locks from
the FREE or LOCK position, then
manually engaging or disengaging
the transfer case with the
floor-mounted shifter. For increased
fuel economy in 2WD, rotate both
hub locks to the FREE position.
•For proper operation, make
sure that each hub is fully
engaged and that both hub locks are set to the same position
(both set to LOCK or both set to FREE). To engage LOCK,
turn the hub locks completely clockwise; to disengage the hubs
(FREE), turn the hub locks completely counterclockwise.
•Some vehicles may be equipped with wheel ornaments that cover the
4x4 manual hub lock. These ornaments must be removed to access
the manual hub locks.
Electronic Shift On the Fly (ESOF) 4x4 system (if equipped)
If equipped with the electronic shift 4WD System, and the
instrument panel control is moved to 4X4 LOW while the vehicle
is moving above 5 mph (8 km/h), the system will not engage and
no damage will occur to the 4WD system. Before 4X4 LOW can be
engaged, the vehicle speed must be below 5 mph (8 km/h) with
the brake pedal depressed and the transmission in N (Neutral). If
your vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission, the clutch
pedal also must be depressed.This vehicle is equipped with a
non-synchronous low range gearset which will not allow the
transfer case to shift into 4X4 LOW if vehicle speed is above
5 mph (8 km/h). It is recommended that a shift to 4X4 LOW is
performed while the vehicle is rolling at a speed below 5 mph
(8 km/h).
The 4WD system:
•provides 4x4 High engagement and disengagement while the vehicle is
moving.
•is operated by a rotary control located on the instrument panel that
allows you select 2WD, 4x4 High or 4x4 Low operation.
•uses auto-manual hub locks that can be engaged and disengaged
automatically based on the 4x4 mode selected.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Driving
277

HAZARD FLASHER
The hazard flasher is located on the
steering column, just behind the
steering wheel. The hazard flashers
will operate when the ignition is in
any position or if the key is not in
the ignition.
Push in the flasher control and all
front and rear direction signals will
flash. Press the flasher control again
to turn them off. Use it when your
vehicle is disabled and is creating a
safety hazard for other motorists.
Note:With extended use, the flasher may run down your battery.
FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH
This device stops the electric fuel pump from sending fuel to the engine
when your vehicle has had a substantial jolt.
After an accident, if the engine cranks but does not start, this switch
may have been activated.
This switch is located on the
passenger’s side of the instrument
panel. Open the front passenger
door and remove the small access
panel
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
296

Fuse/Relay
LocationFuse Amp
RatingPower Distribution Box
Description
6 40A* ABS module (Pump)
7 30A* Upfitter auxiliary switch #1
8 30A* Upfitter auxiliary switch #2
9 40A* ABS module (Coil)
10 20A* Cigar lighter
11 20A* Instrument panel power point
12 15A** Brake On/Off (BOO) relay feed
13 5A ** Brake switch, Brake switch relay
coil, SJB module, 4x4 module
14 — Not used
15 — Not used
16 Relay A/C clutch
17 Relay Not used
18 Relay Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM),
Fuel injectors (Gasoline engines),
Diesel Fuel Control Module (DFCM)
(Diesel engine)
19 Relay Back-up lamps, Reverse Sensing
System (RSS), Engine compartment
fuse 63
20 Relay Trailer stop/turn (Left)
21 Relay Trailer stop/turn (Right)
22 Relay Stop lamps, Center High-Mounted
Stop Lamp (CHMSL), TBC,
Customer access
23 15A** Heater mirror
24 40A* Blower motor relay
25 — Not used
26 30A* ESOF relay lo-hi
27 50A* Glow Plug Control Module (GPCM)
#1 (Diesel engine only)
28 20A* Heated mirror relay
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Roadside Emergencies
304

PLASTIC (NON-PAINTED) EXTERIOR PARTS
Use only approved products to clean plastic parts. These products are
available from your authorized dealer.
•For routine cleaning, use Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A).
•If tar or grease spots are present, use Motorcraft Bug and Tar
Remover (ZC-42).
•For plastic headlamp lenses, use Motorcraft Ultra Clear Spray Glass
Cleaner (ZC-23).
WINDOWS AND WIPER BLADES
The windshield, rear and side windows and the wiper blades should be
cleaned regularly. If the wipers do not wipe properly, substances on the
vehicle’s glass or the wiper blades may be the cause. These may include
hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes, water repellant
coatings, tree sap, or other organic contamination; these contaminants
may cause squeaking or chatter noise from the blades, and streaking and
smearing of the windshield. To clean these items, follow these tips:
•The windshield, rear windows and side windows may be cleaned with
a non-abrasive cleaner such as Motorcraft Ultra-Clear Spray Glass
Cleaner (ZC-23), available from your authorized dealer.
•The wiper blades can be cleaned with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or
Motorcraft Premium Windshield Washer Concentrate (ZC-32–A),
available from your authorized dealer. This washer fluid contains
special solution in addition to alcohol which helps to remove the hot
wax deposited on the wiper blade and windshield from automated car
wash facilities. Be sure to replace wiper blades when they appear
worn or do not function properly.
•Do not use abrasives, as they may cause scratches.
•Do not use fuel, kerosene, or paint thinner to clean any parts.
INSTRUMENT PANEL/INTERIOR TRIM AND CLUSTER LENS
(EXCEPT HARLEY-DAVIDSON)
Clean the instrument panel, interior trim areas and cluster lens with a
clean and damp, white cotton cloth, then with a clean and dry, white
cotton cloth; you may also use Motorcraft Dash & Vinyl Cleaner
(ZC-38-A) on the instrument panel and interior trim areas.
•Avoid cleaners or polishes that increase the gloss of the upper portion
of the instrument panel. The dull finish in this area helps protect the
driver from undesirable windshield reflection.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Cleaning
340

•Be certain to wash or wipe your hands clean if you have been in
contact with certain products such as insect repellent and suntan
lotion in order to avoid possible damage to the interior painted
surfaces.
•Do not use household or glass cleaners as these may damage the
finish of the instrument panel, interior trim and cluster lens.
Do not use chemical solvents or strong detergents when cleaning
the steering wheel or instrument panel to avoid contamination of
the airbag system.
If a staining liquid like coffee/juice has been spilled on the instrument
panel or on interior trim surfaces, clean as follows:
1. Wipe up spilled liquid using a clean white cotton cloth.
2. Apply Motorcraft Deluxe Leather and Vinyl Cleaner (ZC-11-A) [In
Canada use Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Cleaner (CXC-101)] to the wiped
area and spread around evenly.
3. Apply more Motorcraft cleaner to a clean white cotton cloth and press
the cloth onto the soiled area–allow this to set at room temperature for
30 minutes.
4. Remove the soaked cloth, and if it is not soiled badly, use this cloth to
clean the area by using a rubbing motion for 60 seconds.
5. Following this, wipe area dry with a clean white cotton cloth.
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONSOLE (HARLEY-DAVIDSON ONLY)
Your vehicle’s instrument panel and console are uniquely painted with both
high and low gloss paints that require special care. The high gloss area is
similar to that of the vehicle’s exterior; the low gloss area is designed to
help protect the driver from undesirable windshield reflection.
High gloss paint area
In order to maintain the finish of the instrument panel and console, the
high gloss areas should be treated similar to the that of exterior paint or
glossy plastic surfaces. When cleaning the high gloss areas:
•Do not usepaper towels or newspaper.
•Do not usesilicone or Teflont (PTFE)-based products.
Dust the high gloss areas with a clean, dry cloth, or use Motorcraft Dusting
Cloth (ZC-24 or ZC-25) or Motorcraft Dusting Cloth Mitts (ZC-47).
For general cleaning, use mild, soapy water and a soft, damp cloth, then
dry with a clean, dry cloth, or use or use Motorcraft Dash & Vinyl Cleaner
(ZC-38-A) or Motorcraft Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner (ZC-23).
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
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USA(fus)
Cleaning
341

For removal of fine scuffs and scratches, use Scotch-Britet Microfiber
Cloth or cheese cloth along with Motorcraft Premium Liquid Wax
(ZC-53-A), Motorcraft Paint Sealant (ZC-45), or Motorcraft Custom Clear
Coat Polish (ZC-8-A). Note: Removal of deep scuffs and scratches should
be performed by an authorized dealer or an experienced repair facility.
Low gloss paint area
The low gloss area of the instrument panel’s upper dash should be
cleaned with mild, soapy water and a soft, damp cloth, or Motorcraft
Dash & Vinyl Cleaner (ZC-38-A), then dried with a clean, dry cloth.
When cleaning the low gloss areas:
•Do not usepaper towels or newspaper.
•Do not usesilicone or Teflont (PTFE)-based products.
•Do not useexterior paint waxes or sealants.
Dust the low gloss areas with a clean, dry cloth, or use Motorcraft
Dusting Cloth (ZC-24 or ZC-25) or Motorcraft Dusting Cloth Mitts
(ZC-47).
INTERIOR
For fabric, carpets, cloth seats and safety belts:
•Remove dust and loose dirt with a vacuum cleaner.
•Remove light stains and soil with Motorcraft Professional Strength
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner (ZC-54).
•If grease or tar is present on the material, spot-clean the area first
with Motorcraft Spot and Stain Remover (ZC-14).
•If a ring forms on the fabric after spot cleaning, clean the entire area
immediately (but do not oversaturate) or the ring will set.
•Do not use household cleaning products or glass cleaners, which can
stain and discolor the fabric and affect the flame retardant abilities of
the seat materials.
Do not use cleaning solvents, bleach or dye on the vehicle’s
seatbelts, as these actions may weaken the belt webbing.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
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USA(fus)
Cleaning
342

2. Block the wheels.
•Manual transmission:
1. Set the parking brake, depress the clutch and place the gearshift in N
(Neutral).
2. Block the wheels.
Note:Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not
remove it while the engine is running.
OPENING THE HOOD
1. Inside the vehicle, pull the hood
release handle located under the
bottom left corner of the instrument
panel.
2. Go to the front of the vehicle and
release the auxiliary latch located
below the passenger side of the
grille, next to the headlamp. Slide
the handle to release the auxiliary
latch.
3. Lift the hood until the lift
cylinders hold it open.
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
347

IDENTIFYING YOUR VEHICLE
Safety Compliance Certification Label
The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration Regulations require
that a Safety Compliance
Certification Label be affixed to a
vehicle and prescribe where the
Safety Compliance Certification
Label may be located. The Safety
Compliance Certification Label is
located on the structure by the
trailing edge of the driver’s door or
the edge of the driver’s door.
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is
located on the driver side
instrument panel. (Please note that
in the graphic XXXX is
representative of your vehicle
identification number.)
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
388

A
Accessory delay ........................103
Air cleaner filter ...............380, 382
Air conditioning ..........................80
Airbag supplemental restraint
system ........................................184
and child safety seats ............185
description ..............................184
disposal ....................................188
driver airbag ............................186
indicator light .........................187
operation .................................186
passenger airbag .....................186
passenger deactivation
switch ......................................188
Ambulance packages ....................8
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................356
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ......................260–261
Anti-theft system ......................159
arming the system ..................160
Audio system
(see Radio) ......................23, 25, 32
Automatic transmission ............265
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................267
fluid, adding ............................375
fluid, checking ........................375
fluid, refill capacities ..............383
Auxiliary Input Jack ...................40
Auxiliary power point ...............100
Axle
refill capacities ........................383
traction lok ..............................264
B
Battery .......................................354acid, treating emergencies .....354
jumping a disabled battery ....322
maintenance-free ....................354
replacement, specifications ...382
servicing ..................................354
Belt-Minder
.............................179
Brakes ........................................260
anti-lock ...........................260–261
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................261
fluid, checking and adding ....374
fluid, refill capacities ..............383
parking ....................................261
shift interlock ..........................265
trailer .......................................246
Break-in period .............................5
Bulbs ............................................91
C
Capacities for refilling fluids ....383
Cassette tape player ...................23
Cell phone use ..............................7
Child safety restraints ..............193
child safety belts ....................193
Child safety seats ......................196
attaching with tether straps ..200
in front seat ............................197
in rear seat ..............................197
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............338
instrument panel ............340–341
interior .....................................342
plastic parts ............................340
safety belts ..............................342
washing ....................................337
waxing .....................................337
wheels ......................................338
wiper blades ............................340
2008 F-250/350/450/550(f23)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA(fus)
Index
392