check oil FORD WINDSTAR 1996 1.G Owners Manual

Warning Lights and Gauges
73
% [LG03200(ALL)02/95]
Oil Pressure Light
[LG03275(ALL)08/94]
6 pica art:0050150-B
The oil pressure light
[LG03300(ALL)01/95]
This light indicates the engine's oil pressure, not the oil level.
However, if your engine's oil level is low, it could affect the oil
pressure. The light should come on every time your ignition key
is turned to ON or START, and should go out when the engine
starts. If the light stays on or turns on while the engine is
running, you have lost oil pressure and continued operation will
cause severe engine damage.
*
[LG03500(ALL)03/95]
If you lose engine oil pressure:
*
[LG03600(ALL)03/95]1.
Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
*
[LG03700(ALL)11/94]2.
Shut off the engine immediately. If you do not stop the
engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage
could result.
[LG03900(ALL)06/94]3.
Check the engine's oil level. (See ªChecking and Adding
Engine Oilº in theServicing Your Vehiclechapter of this
Owner Guide.) If you do not follow these instructions, you
or others could be injured. To ensure an accurate reading,
your vehicle should be on level ground.
[LG03950(ALL)10/93]4.
If the level is low, add only as much oil as necessary before
you start the engine again. Do not overfill. Do not operate
the engine if the light is on regardless of the oil level.
Contact your nearest dealer for further service.
File:wnlgs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:25:03 1996

Warning Lights and Gauges
89
% [LG11001(ALL)02/95]
Oil Pressure Light
[LG11005(ALL)06/94]
6 pica art:0050150-B
The oil pressure light
[LG11010(ALL)11/93]
This light indicates the engine's oil pressure, not the oil level.
However, if your engine's oil level is low, it could affect the oil
pressure. The light will come on briefly during the display
self-test every time you turn your key to the ON position. The
light will go off when the key is turned to the START position.
The light should stay off when the self-test is done if the engine
is running with normal oil pressure. If the light comes on while
the engine is running, you have lost oil pressure and continued
operation will cause severe engine damage.
*
[LG11020(ALL)03/95]
If you lose engine oil pressure:
*
[LG11030(ALL)03/95]1.
Pull off the road as soon as safely possible.
*
[LG11040(ALL)11/94]2.
Shut off the engine immediately. If you do not stop the
engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage
could result.
[LG11050(ALL)06/94]3.
Check the engine's oil level. (See ªChecking and Adding
Engine Oilº in theServicing Your Vehiclechapter of this
Owner Guide.) If you do not follow these instructions, you
or others could be injured. To ensure an accurate reading,
your vehicle should be on level ground.
[LG11060(ALL)10/93]4.
If the level is low, add only as much oil as necessary before
you start the engine again. Do not overfill. Do not operate
the engine if the light is on regardless of the oil level.
Contact your nearest dealer for further service.
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Update:Tue Mar 19 08:25:03 1996

316
[SV14300(ALL)02/95]
n
Keep the tires properly inflated. To find out the
recommended tire pressure, seeChecking the pressure of the
tireslater in this chapter.
[SV14400(ALL)02/95]
n
Use your air conditioning system wisely. To find out about
fuel economy and air conditioning, seeClimate control systems
in the Index.
[SV14500(ALL)02/95]
In addition to your individual driving habits, optional
equipment, such as air conditioning, can have a significant effect
on fuel economy. Various aftermarket add-on items that increase
aerodynamic drag can also reduce fuel economy.
%*
[SV14600(ALL)03/95]
Engine Oil Recommendations
*
[SV14750(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.
*
[SV14800(ALL)03/95]
Use only engine oils displaying the American Petroleum
Institute CERTIFICATION MARK on the front of the container:
*
[SV14850(ALL)05/94]
10-1/2 pica
art:0001314-A
The API Certification Mark
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

Servicing Your Windstar
317
*
[SV15000(ALL)01/95]
Neveruse:
*
[SV15100(ALL)01/95]
n
ªNon-Detergentº oils
*
[SV15200(ALL)04/95]
n
Oils labeled API SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF or SG
%*
[SV15300(ALL)01/95]
n
Additional engine oil additives, oil treatments or engine
treatments
%*
[SV15400(ALL)03/95]
Engine oils with anSAE 5W-30viscosity arePREFERREDfor
your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel
economy and engine protection for all climates down to-15ÊF
(-25ÊC).
%*
[SV15550(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.
%*
[SV15600(ALL)01/95]
Checking and Adding Engine Oil
*
[SV15700(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.
%*
[SV15800(ALL)03/95]
Checking the engine oil level:
*
[SV15900(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.
*
[SV16000(ALL)03/95]2.
Set the parking brake, making sure the gearshift is securely
latched in P (Park).
*
[SV16100(ALL)02/95]3.
Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat.
[SV16200(ALL)08/94]4.
Locate the dipstick labelled ªEngine Oilº and carefully pull it
out of the engine.
*
[SV16300(ALL)01/95]5.
Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into position, making
sure it is fully seated.
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Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

318
[SV16400(ALL)02/95]
7-1/2 pica art:0050073-D
Engine oil dipstick
*
[SV16500(ALL)02/95]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.
*
[SV16600(ALL)01/95]7.
Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is fully seated.
*
[SV16700(ALL)01/95]
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.
*
[SV16800(ALL)03/95]
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.
%*
[SV16900(ALL)01/95]
Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter
*
[SV17200(ALL)04/95]
Refer to theMaintenance Schedule and Recordbooklet for
additional information.
% [SV18200(ALL)12/93]
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.
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

Servicing Your Windstar
319
*
[SV18300(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Continuous contact with USED motor oil has caused
cancer in laboratory mice.
*
[SV18320(ALL)05/95]
Protect your skin by washing with soap and water.
%*
[SV18400(ALL)03/95]
Engine Coolant
%*
[SV18500(ALL)02/95]
Checking the engine coolant
[SV18600(ALL)11/93]
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 check the coolant
reservoir, located in the engine compartment. The coolant
should stay slightly above the ªFULL COLDº mark.
*
[SV18700(ALL)01/95]
Adding engine coolant
*
[SV18900(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not put engine coolant in the container for the
windshield washer fluid.
*
[SV18920(ALL)05/95]
If sprayed to clean the glass, engine coolant or antifreeze could
make it difficult to see through the windshield.
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

Servicing Your Windstar
325
*
[SV21555(ALL)02/95]
RWARNING
The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to
flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result
in injury or vehicle damage.
%*
[SV21560(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes,
and clothing.
*
[SV21562(ALL)05/95]
If the acid touches someone's skin, eyes, or clothing,
immediately flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes. If
someone swallows the acid, have him or her drink lots of milk
or water first, then Milk of Magnesia, a beaten egg, or vegetable
oil. Call a doctor immediately.
%*
[SV21570(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Applying too much pressure on the ends when lifting a
battery could cause acid to spill. Lift the battery with a
carrier or with your hands on the opposite corners.
%*
[SV21580(ALL)03/95]
Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers
%*
[SV21600(ALL)03/95]
Washer Fluid
[SV21700(ALL)02/95]
Check the level of the windshield washer fluid every time you
stop for fuel. The reservoir for washer fluid is located on the
front, passenger side of the engine compartment. This reservoir
contains the fluid for both the windshield and liftgate washers.
*
[SV21900(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Do not put windshield washer fluid in the container for
the engine coolant.
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

Servicing Your Windstar
335
*
[SV29600(ALL)01/93]
Make sure your suspension insulators and bumpers are not
missing or worn to avoid damage to your vehicle.
%*
[SV29700(ALL)04/95]
Cleaning the Wheels
*
[SV29800(ALL)05/95]
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to wash your
vehicle's body. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool,
abrasives, fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to
remove grease and tar.
*
[SV29900(ALL)04/95]
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are
abrasive.
*
[SV31300(ALL)05/95]
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
[SV31400(ALL)08/94]
Under normal circumstances, you need to change the fluid at
30,000 miles (48,000 km) for normal operating conditions or
21,000 miles (34,000 km) for severe duty. However, if the
transaxle is not working properly (for example, slipping or
shifting slowly), or you notice some sign of fluid leakage, the
fluid level should be checked.
*
[SV31500(ALL)01/93]
It is best to check the transaxle fluid level at normal operating
temperature, after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving.
However, if necessary, you can check the fluid level without
having to drive 20 miles (30 km) to obtain a normal operating
temperature if outside temperatures are above50ÊF (10ÊC).
*
[SV31600(ALL)01/93]
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended
period at high speeds or in city traffic during hot
weather, or if it has been pulling a trailer, the engine
should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow
the fluid to cool before checking.
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Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

352
%*
[SV39500(ALL)01/95]
The alignment of your headlamps should be checked if:
*
[SV39600(ALL)01/95]
n
oncoming motorists frequently signal you to turn off your
vehicle's high beams when you do not have the high beams
on
*
[SV39700(ALL)01/95]
n
the headlamps do not seem to give you enough light to see
clearly at night
*
[SV39800(ALL)01/93]
n
the headlamp beams are not pointed slightly down and to
the right
%*
[SV39900(ALL)03/95]
Replacing the Headlamp Bulb
*
[SV40000(ALL)01/93]
The headlamps on your vehicle use replaceable bulbs. When the
lamp burns out, simply replace the bulb, rather than the whole
lamp.
*
[SV40100(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Handle a halogen headlamp bulb carefully and keep out
of children's reach. Grasp the bulb only by its plastic
base and do not touch the glass. The oil from your hand
could cause the bulb to break the next time the
headlamps are operated.
*
[SV40200(ALL)01/93]
Do not remove the burned out bulb unless you can immediately
replace it with a new one. If a bulb is removed for an extended
period of time, contaminants may enter the headlamp and affect
its performance.
*
[SV40300(ALL)03/95]
To remove the headlamp bulb:
*
[SV40400(ALL)01/93]1.
Make sure that the engine is off and the headlamp switch on
the instrument panel is in the OFF position.
[SV40500(ALL)11/93]2.
Lift the hood and locate the headlamp bulb installed in the
rear of the headlamp. Remove the electrical connector from
the bulb by pulling the connector away from the bulb
assembly.
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996

360
*
[SV43925(ALL)05/95]
RWARNING
Exhaust leaks may result in the entry of harmful and
potentially lethal fumes into the passenger compartment.
Under extreme conditions excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the fuel system, the interior floor covering,
or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.
*
[SV43950(ALL)03/95]
The Scheduled Maintenance Services listed in theMaintenance
Schedule and Recordbooklet are required because they are
considered essential to the life and performance of your vehicle
and to its emissions system.
*
[SV44000(ALL)05/95]
Watch for fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke and loss of oil
pressure. Also watch for the charge warning light, the check
engine light, or the temperature warning light. These sometimes
indicate that the emission system is not working properly.
*
[SV44100(ALL)01/95]
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.
*
[SV44200(ALL)01/93]
By law, anyone who manufactures, repairs, services, sells, leases
vehicles, trades vehicles, or supervises a fleet of vehicles is not
permitted to intentionally remove an emission control device or
prevent it from working. In some of the United States and in
Canada, vehicle owners may be liable if their emission control
device is removed or is prevented from working.
%*
[SV44225(ALL)05/95]
In general, maintenance, replacement, or service of the emission
control devices or systems in your new Ford Motor Company
vehicle or engine may be performed at your expense by any
automotive repair establishment or individual using automotive
parts equivalent to those with which your vehicle or engine was
originally equipped.
File:wnsvs.ex
Update:Tue Mar 19 08:16:43 1996