roof FORD THUNDERBIRD 2003 11.G Owners Manual

REMOVABLE TOP (IF EQUIPPED)
For more information see the CD Rom included with this guide.
Installing the removable top
The front screw fittings must be checked to see that they are
firmly seated after driving a distance of approximately 50 to 60
km (30 to 40 miles).
The removable top does not have the same crush resistance as
an integrated steel roof in case of collision or rollover.
The removable top is not, under any circumstances, to be used
to carry or support external loads.
Movement of the removable top requires at least two people.
The removable top weighs approximately 38 kg (84 lb). Also,
due to its shape, the weight is biased to the rear of the removable top.
Your vehicle must be turned OFF and placed in PARK on a level
surface prior to installing or removing the top.
Before installing the removable top, unsnap and properly store the
convertible top tonneau cover. Refer toInstallation of the tonneau
coverin theConvertiblesection. Also, thoroughly dry the convertible
top and then lower. Open the doors, lower the windows, and clean the
area where the removable top mounts on the body.
1. Remove the protective cover from the top. Using a mild detergent,
clean the weather-strips on the top before installing it on the vehicle.
2. Ensure that the removable top levers are rotated rearward to the fully
open position. Lock the wheels on the storage cart, loosen the
restraining straps on the cart, and with the help of at least another
person remove the top from the cart.
Driver Controls
48

WASHING THE EXTERIOR
Wash your vehicle regularly with cool or lukewarm water and a neutral
Ph shampoo, such as Motorcraft Detail Wash (ZC-3–A), which is available
from your dealer.
•Never use strong household detergents or soap, such as dish washing
or laundry liquid. These products can discolor and spot painted
surfaces.
•Never wash a vehicle that is“hot to the touch”or during exposure to
strong, direct sunlight.
•Always use a clean sponge or carwash mitt with plenty of water for
best results.
•Dry the vehicle with a chamois or soft terry cloth towel in order to
eliminate water spotting.
•It is especially important to wash the vehicle regularly during the
winter months, as dirt and road salt are difficult to remove and cause
damage to the vehicle.
•Immediately remove items such as gasoline, diesel fuel, bird droppings
and insect deposits because they can cause damage to the vehicle’s
paintwork and trim over time.
•Remove any exterior accessories, such as antennas, before entering a
car wash.
•Suntan lotions and insect repellents can damage any painted
surface; if these substances come in contact with your vehicle,
wash off as soon as possible.
WAXING
Applying a polymer paint sealant to your vehicle every six months will
assist in reducing minor scratches and paint damage.
•Wash the vehicle first.
•Do not use waxes that contain abrasives.
•Do not allow paint sealant to come in contact with any non-body
(low-gloss black) colored trim, such as grained door handles, roof
racks, bumpers, side moldings, mirror housings or the windshield cowl
area. The paint sealant will“gray”or stain the parts over time.
PAINT CHIPS
Your dealer has touch-up paint and sprays to match your vehicle’s color.
Take your color code (printed on a sticker in the driver’s door jam) to
your dealer to ensure you get the correct color.
Cleaning
148