User manual FORD THUNDERBIRD-1997

[. . . ] Table of Contents Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 308 Introduction Ford's Commitment to You At Ford Motor Company, excellence is the continuous commitment to achieve the best result possible. It is dedication to learning what you want, determination to develop the right concept, and execution of that concept with care, precision, and attention to detail. [. . . ] If you have difficulty in turning the key, rotate the steering wheel slightly because it may be binding. For a cold engine: 4. u At temperatures 10°F (-12°C) and below: If the engine does not start in fifteen (15) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try again. engine does not start in five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait approximately ten (10) seconds so you do not flood the engine, then try again. u At temperatures above 10°F (-12°C): If the 140 For a warm engine: u Do not hold the key in the START position for more than five (5) seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within five (5) seconds on the first try, turn the key to the OFF position. Wait a few seconds after the starter stops, then try again. Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Keep your foot on the brake pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear. NOTE: Your vehicle has an interlock that prevents you from shifting out of P (Park) unless your foot is on the brake pedal. Release the accelerator gradually as the engine speeds up. If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. For directions on how to reset the switch see Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch in the Index. 141 A computer system controls the engine's idle speed. When you start your vehicle, the engine's idle speed normally runs higher than when it's warmed up. These faster engine speeds will make your vehicle move slightly faster than its normal idle speed. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes. RWARNING Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk of fire or other damage. 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. If you consistently start your vehicle in subzero temperatures, use an engine block heater (if your vehicle has this option). Engine Block Heater (If equipped) Engine block heaters are strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -10°F (-23°C) or below. An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost system to respond quickly. 142 To turn the heater on, simply plug it into a grounded 110-volt outlet. Ford recommends that you use a 110-volt circuit that is protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter. RWARNING To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters. For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before you start your vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not damage the engine, so you can plug it in at night to start your vehicle the following morning. NOTE: Be sure to disconnect the engine block heater before driving your vehicle. Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes Carbon monoxide, although colorless and odorless, is present in exhaust fumes. [. . . ] That is why Ford brand accessories are warranted for up to 12 months or 12, 000 miles (20, 000 km), whichever comes first. See your dealer for complete warranty information and accessory availability. 267 Safety, Comfort, and Convenience 268 NOTE: When adding accessories, equipment, passengers, and luggage to your vehicle, do not exceed the total weight capacity of the vehicle or of the front or rear axle (GVWR, GAWR as shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label). NOTE: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or in Canada the Canadian Radio Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulates the use of mobile communications systems -- such as two-way radios, telephones, and theft alarms -- that are equipped with radio transmitters. Any such equipment installed in your vehicle should comply with FCC regulation and should be installed only by a qualified technician. 269 NOTE: Mobile communications systems may harm the operation of your vehicle, particularly if they are not properly designed for automotive use or are not properly installed. [. . . ]