Lincoln Blackwood (2002 year). Manual — part 12

5. Restart the engine and take your vehicle to a service facility.

Driving the vehicle without repairing the engine problem
increases the chance of engine damage. Take your vehicle to a
service facility as soon as possible.

CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID

Check the power steering fluid. Refer to the scheduled maintenance
guide for the service interval schedules. If adding fluid is necessary, use
only Ford Premium Power Steering Fluid.

1. Start the engine and let it run
until it reaches normal operating
temperature (the engine coolant
temperature gauge indicator will be
near the center of the normal area
between H and C).

2. While the engine idles, turn the
steering wheel left and right several
times.

3. Turn the engine off.

4. Check the fluid level in the
reservoir. It should be between the
MIN and MAX lines. Do not add
fluid if the level is in this range.

5. If the fluid is low, add fluid in
small amounts, continuously
checking the level until it reaches
the range between the MIN and
MAX lines. Be sure to put the cap
back on the reservoir.

TRANSMISSION FLUID

Checking automatic transmission fluid

Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled intervals for
fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not consume fluid.

MAX

MIN

MAX

MIN

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However, the fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not
working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly or if you
notice some sign of fluid leakage.

Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is at normal operating
temperature (approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot
weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30
minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.

2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.

4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.

5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.

6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.

7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the designated area for normal operating temperature or ambient
temperature.

Low fluid level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid
level is at the bottom of the dipstick
and the ambient temperature is
above 10°C (50°F).

Correct fluid level

The transmission fluid should be
checked at normal operating
temperature 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal
operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20
miles) of driving.

You can check the fluid without driving if the ambient temperature is
above 10°C (50°F). However, if fluid is added at this time, an overfill
condition could result when the vehicle reaches normal operating
temperature.

DON’T ADD

ADD

COLD

HOT

DO NOT ADD

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The transmission fluid should be in
this range if at normal operating
temperature (66°C-77°C
[150°F-170°F]).

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 also in the
Lubricant specifications section in.

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.

Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or
cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission
operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.

DRIVELINE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND SLIP YOKE

Your vehicle may be equipped with universal joints that require
lubrication. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for maintenance

DON’T ADD

DON’T ADD

DON’T ADD

DON’T ADD

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181

intervals. If the original universal joints are replaced with universal joints
equipped with grease fittings, lubrication will also be necessary.

BATTERY

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

However, for severe usage or in high temperature climates, check the
battery electrolyte level. Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for
the service interval schedules.

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.

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182

When lifting a plastic-cased battery, excessive pressure on the
end walls could cause acid to flow through the vent caps,

resulting in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or battery.
Lift the battery with a battery carrier or with your hands on opposite
corners.

Keep batteries out of reach of children. Batteries contain sulfuric
acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Shield your eyes

when working near the battery to protect against possible splashing of
acid solution. In case of acid contact with skin or eyes, flush
immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and get prompt
medical attention. If acid is swallowed, call a physician immediately.

Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

Because your vehicle’s engine is also electronically controlled by a
computer, some control conditions are maintained by power from the
battery. When the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed,
the engine must relearn its idle and fuel trim strategy for optimum
driveability and performance. To begin this process:

1. With the vehicle at a complete stop, set the parking brake.

2. Put the gearshift in P (Park), turn off all accessories and start the
engine.

3. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.

4. Allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.

5. Turn the A/C on and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.

6. Drive the vehicle to complete the relearning process.
• The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 miles) or more to

relearn the idle and fuel trim strategy.

• If you do not allow the engine to relearn its idle trim, the idle

quality of your vehicle may be adversely affected until the idle
trim is eventually relearned.

If the battery has been disconnected or a new battery has been installed,
the clock and the preset radio stations must be reset once the battery is
reconnected.

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183

• Always dispose of automotive

batteries in a responsible manner.
Follow your local authorized
standards for disposal. Call your
local authorized recycling center
to find out more about recycling
automotive batteries.

AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE

Refer to the scheduled maintenance guide for the appropriate intervals
for changing the air filter element.

When changing the air filter element, use only the Motorcraft air filter
element listed. Refer to Motorcraft Part Numbers.

Note: Do not start your engine with the air cleaner removed and do not
remove it while the engine is running.

Changing the air filter element

1. Loosen the clamp that secures
the air inlet tube to the engine air
filter cover and disconnect the tube
from the cover.

L

E

A

D

R

E

T

U

R

N

RECYCLE

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184

2. Loosen the clamp that secures
the air filter cover to the air filter
housing and carefully separate the
cover from housing.

3. Remove the air filter element
from the air filter housing.

4. Install a new air filter element. Be careful not to crimp the filter
element edges between the air filter housing and cover. This could cause
filter damage and allow unmetered air to enter the engine if not properly
seated.

5. Replace the air filter cover and secure the clamp.

6. Replace the air inlet tube and secure the clamp.

WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES

Check the wiper blades for wear at least twice a year or when they seem
less effective. Substances such as tree sap and some hot wax treatments
used by commercial car washes reduce the effectiveness of wiper blades.

Checking the wiper blades

If the wiper blades do not wipe properly, clean both the windshield and
wiper blades using undiluted windshield wiper solution or a mild
detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. To avoid damaging the
blades, do not use fuel, kerosene, paint thinner or other solvents.

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185

Changing the wiper blades
To replace the wiper blades:

1. Pull the wiper arm away from the
windshield and lock into the service
position.

2. Turn the blade at an angle from
the wiper arm. Push the lock pin
manually to release the blade and
pull the wiper blade down toward
the windshield to remove it from the
arm.

3. Attach the new wiper to the
wiper arm and press it into place
until a click is heard.

INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING

New vehicles are fitted with tires
that have a rating on them called
Tire Quality Grades. The Quality
grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall
between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For
example:

• Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United
States Department of Transportation has set.
Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on passenger
cars. They do not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires,
space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim
diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires as defined in
Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).
U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S.
Department of Transportation requires Ford to give you the following
information about tire grades exactly as the government has written it.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of
the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified

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186

government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one
and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual
conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and
differences in road characteristics and climates.

Traction AA A B C

The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. The
grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction
performance.

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include

acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A B C

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance
which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by
law.

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,

underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

SERVICING YOUR TIRES

Checking the tire pressure
• Use an accurate tire pressure gauge.
• Check the tire pressure when tires are cold, after the vehicle has been

parked for at least one hour or has been driven less than 5 km
(3 miles).

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187

• Adjust tire pressure to recommended specifications found on the

Certification Label inside of driver’s door. Tire pressure information
can also be found on the Tire Information label located on the inside
of the fuel filler door.

Improperly inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and can fail
suddenly, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle control, vehicle

rollover and/or personal injury.

Tire rotation

Because your vehicle’s tires perform different jobs, they often wear
differently. To make sure your tires wear evenly and last longer, rotate
them as indicated in the scheduled maintenance guide. If you notice that
the tires wear unevenly, have them checked.

The following procedure applies to vehicles equipped with single rear
wheels, if your vehicle is equipped with dual rear wheels it is
recommended that only the front wheels be rotated (side to side).
• Four tire rotation

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• Five tire rotation

Replacing the tires

Replace the tires when the wear
band is visible through the tire
treads. Due to exposure to the
elements and exhaust you should
replace the spare tire when you
replace the other tires.

When replacing full size tires, never mix radial bias-belted, or
bias-type tires. Use only the tire sizes that are listed on the

Certification Label. Make sure that all tires are the same size, speed
rating, and load-carrying capacity. Use only the tire combinations
recommended on the label. If you do not follow these precautions,
your vehicle handling may be affected which can lead to loss of vehicle
control, vehicle rollover and/or personal injury.

Make sure that all replacement tires are of the same size, type,
load-carrying capacity and tread design (e.g., “All Terrain”,

“Touring”, etc.), as originally offered by Ford.

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189

Failure to follow these precautions, your vehicle handling may be
adversely affected which can lead to loss of vehicle control,

vehicle rollover and/or personal injury.

Tires that are larger or smaller than your vehicle’s original tires may also
affect the accuracy of your speedometer and the performance of your
Traction Control Sytem.

SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS

Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you
currently have on your vehicle.

The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in
rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow
tires and cables. Ford offers tire cables as a Ford approved accessory
and recommends use of these. See your dealer or qualified service
technician for more information on tire cables for your vehicle.

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and cables:
• Cables should only be used on the rear wheels.
• Install cables securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any

wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.

• Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your

vehicle, stop and re-tighten the cables. If this does not work, remove
the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle.

• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
• Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use

tire cables on dry roads.

• The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle

damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when
using snow tires and cables.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE FUELS

Important safety precautions

Do not overfill the fuel tank. The pressure in an overfilled tank
may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and fire.

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190

The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel filler cap is
venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops

before completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise, fuel may
spray out and injure you or others.

If you do not use the proper fuel filler cap, excessive pressure or
vacuum in the fuel tank may damage the fuel system or cause

the fuel cap to disengage in a collision, which may result in possible
personal injury.

Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or
mishandled.

Gasoline may contain benzene, which is a cancer-causing agent.

Observe the following guidelines when handling automotive fuel:
• Extinguish all smoking materials

and any open flames before
fueling your vehicle.

• Always turn off the vehicle before

fueling.

• Automotive fuels can be harmful

or fatal if swallowed. Fuel such as gasoline is highly toxic and if
swallowed can cause death or permanent injury. If fuel is swallowed,
call a physician immediately, even if no symptoms are immediately
apparent. The toxic effects of fuel may not be visible for hours.

• Avoid inhaling fuel vapors. Inhaling too much fuel vapor of any kind

can lead to eye and respiratory tract irritation. In severe cases,
excessive or prolonged breathing of fuel vapor can cause serious
illness and permanent injury.

• Avoid getting fuel liquid in your eyes. If fuel is splashed in the eyes,

remove contact lenses (if worn), flush with water for 15 minutes and
seek medical attention. Failure to seek proper medical attention could
lead to permanent injury.

• Fuels can also be harmful if absorbed through the skin. If fuel is

splashed on the skin and/or clothing, promptly remove contaminated

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191

clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Repeated or
prolonged skin contact with fuel liquid or vapor causes skin irritation.

• Be particularly careful if you are taking “Antabuse” or other forms of

disulfiram for the treatment of alcoholism. Breathing gasoline vapors,
or skin contact could cause an adverse reaction. In sensitive
individuals, serious personal injury or sickness may result. If fuel is
splashed on the skin, promptly wash skin thoroughly with soap and
water. Consult a physician immediately if you experience an adverse
reaction.

When refueling always shut the engine off and never allow
sparks or open flames near the filler neck. Never smoke while

refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous under certain conditions.
Care should be taken to avoid inhaling excess fumes.

The flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzle can produce static
electricity, which can cause a fire if fuel is pumped into an

ungrounded fuel container.

Use the following guidelines to avoid static build-up when filling an
ungrounded fuel container:
• Place approved fuel container on the ground.
• DO NOT fill a fuel container while it is in the vehicle (including the

cargo area).

• Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact with the fuel container while

filling.

• DO NOT use a device that would hold the fuel pump handle in the fill

position.

Choosing the right fuel

Use only UNLEADED FUEL. The use of leaded fuel is prohibited by law
and could damage your vehicle.

Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can damage critical fuel system
components.

Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic
compounds, including manganese-based compounds containing MMT.

Repairs to correct the effects of using a fuel for which your vehicle was
not designed may not be covered by your warranty.

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192

Octane recommendations

Your vehicle is designed to use
“Premium” unleaded gasoline with
an (R+M)/2 octane rating of 91 or
higher for optimum performance.
The use of gasolines with lower
octane ratings may degrade performance. The use of gasolines labeled as
“Premium” in high altitude areas that are sold with octane ratings of less
than 91 is not recommended.

Do not be concerned if your engine sometimes knocks lightly. However, if
it knocks heavily under most driving conditions while you are using fuel
with the recommended octane rating, see your dealer or a qualified
service technician to prevent any engine damage.

Fuel quality

If you are experiencing starting, rough idle or hesitation driveability
problems during a cold start, try a different brand of “Premium”
unleaded gasoline. If the problems persist, see your dealer or a qualified
service technician.

It should not be necessary to add any aftermarket products to your fuel
tank if you continue to use high quality fuel of the recommended octane
rating. Aftermarket products could cause damage to the fuel system.
Repairs to correct the effects of using an aftermarket product in your
fuel may not be covered by your warranty.

Many of the world’s automakers
issued the World-wide Fuel Charter
that recommends gasoline
specifications to provide improved
performance and emission control
system protection for your vehicle.
Gasolines that meet the World-wide
Fuel Charter should be used when
available. Ask your fuel supplier
about gasolines that meet the
World-wide Fuel Charter. In Canada,
look for fuels that display the Auto Makers’ Choice

娂 logo.

Cleaner air

Ford endorses the use of reformulated “cleaner-burning” gasolines to
improve air quality.

91

(R+M)/2 METHOD

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193

Running out of fuel

Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse
affect on powertrain components.

If you have run out of fuel:
• You may need to cycle the ignition from OFF to ON several times after

refueling, to allow the fuel system to pump the fuel from the tank to
the engine.

• Your “Service Engine Soon” indicator may come on. For more

information on the “Service Engine Soon” indicator, refer to the
Instrumentation chapter.

Fuel Filler Cap

Your fuel tank filler cap has an indexed design with a 1/8 turn on/off
feature.

When fueling your vehicle:

1. Turn the engine off.

2. Carefully turn the filler cap counterclockwise 1/8 of a turn until it
stops.

3. Pull to remove the cap from the fuel filler pipe.

4. To install the cap, align the tabs on the cap with the notches on the
filler pipe.

5. Turn the filler cap clockwise 1/8 of a turn until it stops.

If the “Service Engine Soon/Check Engine” indicator comes on and stays
on after you start the engine, the fuel filler cap may not be properly
installed. Turn off the engine, remove the fuel filler cap, align the cap
properly and reinstall it.

If you must replace the fuel filler cap, replace it with a fuel filler
cap that is designed for your vehicle. The customer warranty may
be void for any damage to the fuel tank or fuel system if the
correct genuine Ford or Motorcraft fuel filler cap is not used.

The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel filler cap is
venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops

before completely removing the fuel filler cap. Otherwise, fuel may
spray out and injure you or others.

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194