Ford F 53 Motorhome Chassis 2002 Owner's Manual

Table of contents

Introduction 2

Instrumentation 7

Lights 15

Driver controls 17

Driving 22

Roadside emergencies 39

Customer assistance 57

Cleaning 58

Maintenance and specifications 59

Reporting safety defects (U.S. only) 100

All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system or translation in whole or part is not permitted without written authorization from Ford Motor Company. Ford may change the contents without notice and without incurring obligation.

Introduction

The following warning may be required by California law:

CALIFORNIA Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and

certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations on acquiring your new Ford. Please take the time to get well acquainted with your vehicle by reading this handbook. The more you know and understand about your vehicle the greater the safety and pleasure you will derive from driving it.

For more information on Ford Motor Company and its products visit the following website:

In the United States: www.ford.com

In Canada: www.ford.ca

In Australia: www.ford.com.au

In Mexico: www.ford.com.mx

Additional owner information is given in separate publications.

This Owner’s Guide describes every option and model variant

available and therefore some of the items covered may not apply to your particular vehicle. Furthermore, due to printing cycles it may describe options before they are generally available.

Remember to pass on the Owner’s Guide when reselling the

vehicle. It is an integral part of the vehicle.

Introduction

Fuel pump shut-off switch In the event of an accident the

safety switch will automatically cut off the fuel supply to the engine. The switch can also be activated through sudden vibration (e.g. collision when parking). To reset the switch, refer to the Fuel pump shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

Warning symbols in this guide

How can you reduce the risk of personal injury and prevent possible damage to others, your vehicle and its equipment? In this guide, answers to such questions are contained in comments highlighted by the warning triangle symbol. These comments should be read and observed.

Warning symbols on your vehicle

When you see this symbol, it is imperative that you consult the relevant section of this guide before touching or attempting adjustment of any kind.

Protecting the environment

We must all play our part in protecting the environment. Correct vehicle usage and the authorized disposal of waste cleaning and lubrication materials are significant steps towards this aim. Information in this respect is highlighted in this guide with the tree symbol.

Introduction

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

There are no particular guidelines for breaking-in your vehicle. During the first 1 600 km (1 000 miles) of driving, vary speeds frequently. This is recommended to give the moving parts a chance to break in.

SPECIAL NOTICES

Emission warranty

The New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage, Safety Restraint Coverage, Corrosion Coverage, and 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel Engine Coverage. In addition, your vehicle is eligible for Emissions Defect and Emissions Performance Warranties. For a detailed description of what is covered and what is not covered, refer to the Warranty Guide that is provided to you along with your Owner’s Guide.

Notice to owners of Class A Motorhome Vehicles

The Ford Motorhome Chassis is not suitable for producing ambulances or school buses. In addition, Ford urges manufacturers to follow the recommendations of the “Ford Incomplete Vehicle Manual,” the “Ford Truck Body Builder’s Layout Book,” and other pertinent supplements.

Notification of delayed warranty start date and accumulated mileage

Verify that your recreational vehicle dealer has submitted a Notification of Delayed Warranty Start Date and Accumulated Mileage (FCS 900) to Ford Motor Company.

Introduction

These are some of the symbols you may see on your vehicle.

Safety Alert

Fasten Safety Belt Air Bag-Front

Air Bag-Side Child Seat

Child Seat Installation Warning

Brake System Anti-Lock Brake System

Brake Fluid Non-Petroleum Based

Master Lighting Switch Hazard Warning Flasher

Fog Lamps-Front Fuse Compartment

Fuel Pump Reset Windshield Wash/Wipe

See Owner’s Guide

Child Seat Tether Anchorage

Traction Control

Windshield Defrost/Demist

Power Windows Front/Rear

Child Safety Door Lock/Unlock

Rear Window Defrost/Demist

Power Window Lockout

Interior Luggage Compartment Release Symbol

Introduction

Panic Alarm Engine Oil

Engine Coolant

Engine Coolant Temperature

Do Not Open When Hot Battery

Avoid Smoking, Flames, or Sparks

Battery Acid

Explosive Gas Fan Warning

Power Steering Fluid

Maintain Correct Fluid Level

Emission System Engine Air Filter

Passenger Compartment Air Filter

Jack

Check fuel cap Low tire warning

MAX

MIN

Instrumentation

WARNING LIGHTS AND CHIMES

MPH km/h

100

000000

000

PRN 21

120

140

180

100

RPMx1000

FUEL

RESET

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

ABS

DOOR AJAR

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

BRAKE

LOW FUEL

+ -

BRAKE

+ -

Warning lights and gauges can alert you to a vehicle condition that may become serious enough to cause expensive repairs. A warning light may illuminate when a problem exists with one of your vehicle’s functions. Many lights will illuminate when you start your vehicle to make sure the bulb works. If any light remains on after starting the vehicle, have

the respective system inspected immediately.

Service engine soon

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer that monitors the engine’s emission control system. This system is commonly known as the On Board Diagnostics System (OBD). This OBD system protects the environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet government emission standards. The OBD system also assists the service technician in properly servicing your vehicle.

The Service Engine Soon indicator light illuminates when the ignition is first turned to the ON position to check the bulb. If it comes on after the engine is started, one of the engine’s emission control systems may be malfunctioning. The light may illuminate without a driveability concern being noted. The vehicle will usually be drivable and will not require towing.

Instrumentation

What you should do if the Service Engine Soon light illuminates

Light turns on solid:

This means that the OBD system has detected a malfunction.

Temporary malfunctions may cause your Service Engine Soon light to illuminate. Examples are:

1. The vehicle has run out of fuel. (The engine may misfire or run poorly.)

2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.

3. The fuel cap may not have been properly installed and securely tightened.

These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank with high quality fuel of the recommended octane and/or properly installing and securely tightening the fuel cap. After three driving cycles without these or any other temporary malfunctions present, the Service Engine Soon light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No additional vehicle service is required.

If the Service Engine Soon light remains on, have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Light is blinking:

Engine misfire is occurring which could damage your catalytic converter. You should drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Under engine misfire conditions, excessive exhaust temperatures

could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior floor coverings or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.

The Transmission Control Indicator Light (TCIL), which is located on the gearshift lever (the word OFF), may flash steadily if a transmission malfunction has been detected. If the TCIL is flashing, contact your Ford dealer as soon as possible. If this condition persists, damage to the transmission may occur.

OVERDRIVE

Instrumentation

Brake system warning

Illuminates if the parking brake is engaged. Also momentarily illuminates at start up to ensure the circuit is functional. If the brake warning lamp does not illuminate at these times, or illuminates after releasing the parking brake, seek service immediately. Refer to Brakes in the Driving chapter for more information.

Brake reserve system warning (if equipped)

Illuminates to indicate normal Hydromax booster reserve system activation when the engine is OFF and the service brake pedal is applied.

This light may also illuminate momentarily if the engine is running and the driver turns the steering wheel fully in one direction while braking.

If the light remains on while the engine is running, this indicates inadequate hydraulic booster pressure or reserve pump system failure. Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible and seek service immediately.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

Momentarily illuminates at start up to ensure the circuit is functional. If the light does not illuminate, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced (refer to Brakes in the Driving chapter for more information). With the ABS light on, the ABS is disabled and normal braking is still functional.

BRAKE

ABS

Safety belt

Illuminates to remind you to fasten your safety belts. For more information, refer to the Seating and safety restraints chapter.

Instrumentation

Charging system

Illuminates when the battery is not charging properly.

Oil pressure/Engine coolant

Illuminates when the engine coolant temperature is above the normal range or the engine oil pressure is below normal range. Check the engine oil and coolant level refer to Adding engine oil and Adding coolant in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

Low fuel

Illuminates when the fuel level in the fuel tank is at, or near, empty (refer to Fuel gauge in this chapter for more information).

Fuel reset

Illuminates when the fuel pump shut-off switch has been triggered. For more information, refer to Fuel

pump shut-off switch in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

LOW

FUEL

RESET

Turn signal

Illuminates when the left or right turn signal or the hazard lights are turned on. Refer to Bulbs in the Maintenance and care chapter.

Instrumentation

High beams

Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Door ajar (if equipped)

Illuminates when any door is open (or not fully closed).

DOOR

AJAR

Safety belt warning chime (if equipped)

Sounds to remind you to fasten your safety belts.

Headlamps on warning chime (if equipped)

Sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are on, the key is removed from the ignition and the driver’s door is opened.

Key-in-ignition warning chime (if equipped)

Sounds when the key is left in the ignition and the driver’s door is opened.

GAUGES

BRAKE

LOW FUEL

+ -

000000

000

100

MPH km/h

PRN 21

120

140

180

100

RPMx1000

FUEL

RESET

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

ABS

DOOR AJAR

Instrumentation

Engine coolant temperature gauge

Indicates the temperature of the engine coolant. At normal operating temperature, the needle remains within the normal area (the area between the “H” and “C”). If it enters the red section, the engine is overheating. Stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible, switch off the engine immediately and let the engine cool. Refer to Engine

coolant in the Maintenance and specifications chapter.

Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is

running or hot. Steam and scalding liquid from a hot cooling system can burn you badly.

This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level the gauge indication will not be accurate.

Engine oil pressure gauge

Indicates engine oil pressure. At normal operating temperature, the needle will be in the normal range (the area between the “L” and “H”); if the needle goes below the normal range, stop the vehicle as soon as safely possible and switch off the engine immediately. Check the oil level. Add oil if needed (refer to

Engine oil in the Maintenance and specifications chapter). If the

oil level is correct, have your vehicle checked at your dealership or by a qualified technician.

Battery voltage gauge

Indicates battery voltage. If the pointer moves and stays outside the normal operating range (as indicated by the arrows), have the vehicle’s electrical system checked as soon as possible.

Fuel gauge

Displays approximately how much fuel is in the fuel tank. The fuel gauge may vary slightly when the vehicle is in motion or on a grade.

When refueling the vehicle from empty indication, the amount of fuel that can be added will be less than the advertised capacity due to the reserve fuel.

Speedometer

Indicates the current vehicle speed.

Instrumentation

Odometer

Registers the total kilometers (miles) of the vehicle.

Trip odometer

Registers the kilometers (miles) of individual journeys. To reset, depress the control.

Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute.

Driving with your tachometer pointer continuously at the top of the scale may damage the engine.

Lights

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Rotate the headlamp control to the first position to turn on the parking lamps. Rotate to the second position to also turn on the headlamps.

Daytime running lamps (DRL) (if equipped)

The daytime running light system turns the headlamps on, with a reduced light output, when:

• the vehicle is running and

• the headlamp system is in the OFF position or parking lamp position.

Always remember to turn on your headlamps at dusk or during

inclement weather. The Daytime Running Light (DRL) System does not activate your tail lamps and generally may not provide adequate lighting during these conditions. Failure to activate your headlamps under these conditions may result in a collision.

High beams

• Push forward to activate.

• Pull toward you to deactivate.

Lights

Flash to pass

Pull toward you to activate and release to deactivate.

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel during headlamp and parklamp operation.

• Rotate up to brighten.

• Rotate down to dim.

• Rotate to full up position (past

detent) to turn on interior lamps.

• Rotate to full down position (past detent) to turn off interior lamps.

BULBS

Replacing exterior bulbs

Check the operation of the following lamps frequently:

• Headlamps

• Tail lamps

• Brakelamps

• Turn signals

• Backup lamps

• License plate lamp

Do not remove lamp bulbs unless they will be replaced immediately. If a bulb is removed for an extended period of time, contaminants may enter the lamp housings and affect performance.

PANEL

DIM

WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER CONTROLS

Rotate the windshield wiper control to the desired interval, low or high speed position.

The bars of varying length are for intermittent wipers. When in this position rotate the control upward for fast intervals and downward for slow intervals.

Push the control on the end of the stalk to activate washer. Push and hold for a longer wash cycle. The washer will automatically shut off after ten seconds of continuous use.

SPEED CONTROL

To turn speed control on

• Press ON.

Vehicle speed cannot be controlled until the vehicle is traveling at or above 48 km/h (30 mph).

Do not shift the gearshift lever into N (Neutral) with the speed control on.

Driver controls

OFF

Do not use the speed

control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

Driver controls

To turn speed control off

• Press OFF or

• Turn off the vehicle ignition.

Once speed control is switched off, the previously programmed set speed will be erased.

To set a speed

• Press SET ACCEL. For speed control to operate, the speed control must be ON and the vehicle speed must be greater than 48 km/h (30 mph).

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

If you drive up or down a steep hill, your vehicle speed may vary momentarily slower or faster than the set speed. This is normal.

Speed control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it increases above the set speed on a downhill. If your vehicle speed is faster than the set speed while driving on a downhill, you may want to shift to the next lower gear or apply the brakes to reduce your vehicle speed.

If your vehicle slows down more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage. This is normal. Pressing RES will re-engage it.

OFF

Do not use the speed control in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, slippery, or unpaved.

Driver controls

To set a higher set speed

• Press and hold SET ACCEL. Release the control when the desired vehicle speed is reached or

• Press and release SET ACCEL to operate the Tap-Up function. Each press will increase the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or

• Accelerate with your accelerator pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press and release SET ACCEL.

You can accelerate with the accelerator pedal at any time during speed control usage. Releasing the accelerator pedal will return your vehicle to the previously programmed set speed.

To set a lower set speed

• Press and hold COAST. Release the control when the desired speed is reached or

• Press and release COAST to operate the Tap-Down function. Each press will decrease the set speed by 1.6 km/h (1 mph) or

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

• Depress the brake pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press SET ACCEL.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Driver controls

To disengage speed control

• Depress the brake pedal.

Disengaging the speed control will not erase the previously programmed set speed.

Pressing OFF will erase the previously programmed set speed.

To return to a previously set speed

• Press RES. For RES to operate, the vehicle speed must be faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

OFF

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Driver controls

OVERDRIVE CONTROL

Activating overdrive

(Overdrive) is the normal drive

position for the best fuel economy.

The overdrive function allows automatic upshifts to second, third and fourth gear.

Deactivating overdrive

Press the Transmission Control Switch (TCS) located on the end of the gearshift lever. The Transmission Control Indicator Light (TCIL) (the word OFF) will illuminate on the end of the gearshift lever. The transmission will operate in all gears except overdrive.

To return to normal overdrive mode, press the Transmission Control Switch again. The TCIL (the word OFF) will no longer be illuminated.

When you shut off and re-start your vehicle, the transmission will automatically return to normal (Overdrive) mode.

For additional information about the gearshift lever and the transmission control switch operation refer to the Automatic Transmission Operation section of the Driving chapter.

OFF

OVERDRIVE

Driving

STARTING

Positions of the ignition

1. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical

accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running.

2. LOCK, locks the automatic

transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal.

3. OFF, shuts off the engine and all

accessories without locking the steering wheel.

4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key

position when driving.

5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine

starts.

Preparing to start your vehicle

Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise.

When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter.

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.

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.

Driving

Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed

areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.

If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer

inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes.

Important safety precautions

A computer system controls the engine’s idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Do not allow the vehicle to idle for more than 10 minutes.

Before starting the vehicle:

1. Make sure all vehicle occupants have buckled their safety belts.

2. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off.

3. Make sure the parking brake is set.

4. Make sure the gearshift is in P (Park).

Driving

5. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START).

If there is difficulty in turning the

key, firmly rotate the steering wheel left and right until the key turns freely. This condition may occur

when:

• front wheels are turned

• front wheel is against the curb

• steering wheel is turned when getting in or out of the vehicle

MPH km/h

100

000000

000

PRN 21

120

140

180

100

BRAKE

LOW FUEL

+ -

BRAKE

+ -

Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced.

• If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the

light may not illuminate.

RPMx1000

FUEL

RESET

ABS

SERVICE ENGINE

SOON

DOOR AJAR

Starting the engine

Note: Whenever you start your vehicle, release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.

1. Turn the key to 5 (START) without pressing the accelerator pedal and release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to 4 (ON).

2. If the temperature is above –12°

C (10° F) and the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait 10

seconds and try again.

Driving

3. If the temperature is below -12° C (10° F) and the engine does not start in 15 seconds on the first try, turn the key OFF and wait 10 seconds and try again. If the engine does not start in two attempts, press the accelerator pedal all the way to floor and hold. Turn the key to START position.

4. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up.

5. After idling for a few seconds, apply the brake and release the parking brake.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped)

An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater-defroster system to respond quickly. Use of an engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -23° C (-10° F) or below.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with

ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters.

Guarding against exhaust fumes

Although odorless and colorless, carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

If you ever smell exhaust fumes of any kind inside your vehicle,

have your dealer inspect and fix your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell exhaust fumes. These fumes are harmful and could kill you.

Have the exhaust and body ventilation systems checked whenever:

• the vehicle is raised for service

• the sound of the exhaust system changes

• the vehicle has been damaged in a collision

Driving

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and

Important ventilating information

If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped in an open area for long periods of time, open the windows at least 2.5 cm (one inch).

Adjust the heating or air conditioning (if equipped) to bring in fresh air.

Improve vehicle ventilation by keeping all air inlet vents clear of snow, leaves and other debris.

BRAKES

Your service brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the Scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled maintenance.

Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the vehicle’s brake system. In normal operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a “metal-to-metal,” “continuous grinding” or “continuous squeal” sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear.

Do not apply your brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become less effective.

Driving

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

On vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a noise from the hydraulic pump motor and pulsation in the pedal may be observed during ABS braking events. Pedal pulsation coupled with noise while braking under panic conditions or on loose gravel, bumps, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system. The ABS performs a self-check after you start the engine and begin to drive away. A brief mechanical noise may be heard during this test. This is normal. If a malfunction is found, the ABS warning light will come on. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

The ABS operates by detecting the onset of wheel lockup during brake applications and compensates for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. The accompanying illustration depicts the advantage of an ABS equipped vehicle (on bottom) to a non-ABS equipped vehicle (on top) during hard braking with loss of front braking traction.

Using ABS

• In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the four-wheel ABS is required, apply continuous force on the brake. The four wheel ABS will be activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain full steering control of your vehicle and, providing there is sufficient space, will enable you to avoid obstacles and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.

• The anti-lock system does not decrease the time necessary to apply the brakes or always reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to stop.

• We recommend that you familiarize yourself with this braking technique. However, avoid taking any unnecessary risks.

Driving

Hydraulic brake booster system (Hydroboost or Hydromax)

The Hydroboost and Hydromax systems receive fluid pressure from the power steering pump to provide power assist during braking.

The Hydromax booster receives backup pressure from the reserve system electric pump whenever the fluid in the power steering system is not flowing. When the engine is OFF, the pump will turn on if the brake pedal is applied, or if the ignition is turned to the ON position.

The sound of the pump operating may be heard by the driver, but this is a normal characteristic of the system.

The reserve system provides reduced braking power, so the vehicle should be operated under these conditions with caution, and only to seek service repair and remove the vehicle from the roadway.

For Hydromax-equipped vehicles operating under normal conditions, the noise of the fluid flowing through the booster may be heard whenever the brake is applied. This condition is normal. Vehicle service is not required.

If braking performance or pedal response becomes very poor, even when the pedal is strongly depressed, it may indicate the presence of air in the hydraulic system or leakage of fluid. Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible and seek service immediately.

ABS warning lamp

ABS

The

warning lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned to the ON position. If the light remains on after the vehicle is started, continues to flash or fails to illuminate, have the system serviced immediately. With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated.

With the ABS light on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake released. (If your brake warning lamp illuminates, have your vehicle serviced immediately.)

ABS

Parking brake

Apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is parked. Push pedal downward to set the parking brake.

The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave

your vehicle.

Driving

The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the transmission mounted parking brake assembly, the vehicle’s stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.

Driving

Push the service brake pedal with your foot and pull the parking brake release handle to release the parking brake.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION

Brake-shift interlock

This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the ON position unless brake pedal is depressed.

If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed:

1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the key.

2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF. Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral).

3. Start the vehicle.

If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside emergencies chapter.

Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.

If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear.

+ 74 hidden pages

Ford F 53 Motorhome Chassis 2002 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual