F-250 Light Duty (1999 year). Manual — part 46

The transmission fluid should be in
this range if at ambient temperature
(10°C-35°C [50°F-95°F]).

High fluid level

Fluid levels above the safe range
may result in transmission failure.
An overfill condition of transmission
fluid may cause shift and/or
engagement concerns and/or
possible damage.

High fluid levels can be caused by
an overheating condition.

Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of
fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and/or dipstick handle
and also in the Lubricant specifications section in the Capacities and
specifications chapter.

Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause
internal transmission component damage.

If necessary, add fluid in 250 mL (1/2 pint) increments through the filler
tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by a qualified
technician.

An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause
shift and/or engagement
concerns and/or possible
damage.

ADD

COLD

HOT

DO NOT ADD

DON'T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCHED AREA • CHECK WHEN HOT

IDLING IN PARK

ADD

COLD

HOT

DO NOT ADD

DON'T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCHED AREA • CHECK WHEN HOT

IDLING IN PARK

ADD

COLD

HOT

DO NOT ADD

DON'T ADD IF IN CROSSHATCHED AREA • CHECK WHEN HOT

IDLING IN PARK

Maintenance and care

184

Checking and adding manual transmission fluid

1. Clean the filler plug.

2. Remove the filler plug and
inspect the fluid level.

3. Fluid level should be at bottom of
the opening.

4. Add enough fluid through the
filler opening so that the fluid level
is at the bottom of the opening.

5. Install and tighten the fill plug
securely.

Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to the Capacities
and specifications chapter.

Maintenance and care

185

Checking and adding transfer case fluid

1. Clean the filler plug.

2. Remove the filler plug and
inspect the fluid level.

3. Add only enough fluid through
the filler opening so that the fluid
level is at the bottom of the
opening.

Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to the Capacities
and specifications chapter.

DRIVELINE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND SLIP YOKE

Maintenance and care

186

BATTERY

Your vehicle is equipped with a
Motorcraft maintenance-free battery
which normally does not require
additional water during its life of
service.

Keep the electrolyte level in each cell up to the “level indicator”.
Do not overfill the battery cells.

If the electrolyte level in the battery is low, you can add plain tap water
to the battery, as long as you do not use hard water (water with a high
mineral or alkali content). If possible, however, try to only fill the battery
cells with distilled water. If the battery needs water often, have the
charging system checked.

If your battery has a cover/shield, make sure it is reinstalled
after the battery has been cleaned or replaced.

For longer, trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and
dry. Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly fastened to
the battery terminals.

If you see any corrosion on the battery or terminals, remove the cables
from the terminals and clean with a wire brush. You can neutralize the
acid with a solution of baking soda and water.

Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause
personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted

substances to come near the battery. When working near the battery,
always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always provide proper
ventilation.

Maintenance and care

187