Ford F 53 Motorhome Chassis 2003 Owner's Manual

Table of contents

Introduction

Instrumentation

Warning and control lights 8 Gauges 11

Lights

Headlamps 14 Bulb replacement 15

Driver controls

Windshield wiper/washer control 16 Speed control (Cruise control) 17

Driving

Starting 20 Brakes 23 Transmission operation 27 Vehicle loading 31 Trailer towing 33

Roadside emergencies

Hazard flasher switch 36 Fuel pump shut-off switch 36 Fuses and relays 38 Changing tires 45 Jump starting 48 Wrecker towing 52

Table of contents

Customer assistance 53

Cleaning 54

Maintenance and specifications 55

Engine compartment 56 Engine oil 57 Battery 59 Fuel information 67 Air filter(s) 83 Part numbers 88 Refill capacities 89 Lubricant specifications 91

Reporting safety defects (U.S. only) 93

Index 94

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

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.

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.

Introduction

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.

BREAKING-IN YOUR VEHICLE

Your vehicle does not need an extensive break-in. Try not to drive continuously at the same speed for the first 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of new vehicle operation. Vary your speed to allow parts to adjust themselves to other parts.

Drive your new vehicle at least 800 km (500 miles) before towing a trailer.

Do not add friction modifier compounds or special break-in oils during the first few thousand kilometers (miles) of operation, since these additives may prevent piston ring seating. See Engine oil in the Maintenance and care chapter for more information on oil usage.

Introduction

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

Child Seat Tether Anchor

Anti-Lock Brake System

Traction Control AdvanceTrac

Master Lighting Switch Hazard Warning Flasher

Fog Lamps-Front Fuse Compartment

See Owner’s Guide

Child Seat Lower Anchor

Brake System

Brake Fluid Non-Petroleum Based

Fuel Pump Reset Windshield Wash/Wipe

Windshield Defrost/Demist

Power Windows Front/Rear

Rear Window Defrost/Demist

Power Window Lockout

Introduction

Child Safety Door Lock/Unlock

Interior Luggage Compartment Release Symbol

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

MAX

MIN

Check fuel cap Low tire warning

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: If this light illuminates while driving, it is a possible indication that one of the engine’s emission control systems has failed.

Brake system warning light: To confirm the brake system warning light is functional, it will momentarily illuminate when the ignition is turned to the ON position when the engine is not running, or in a position between ON and START, or by applying the parking brake when the ignition is turned to the ON position. If the brake system warning light does not illuminate at this time, seek service immediately from your dealership. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake fluid level and the brake system should be inspected immediately by your servicing dealership.

Driving a vehicle with the brake system warning light on is

dangerous. A significant decrease in braking performance may occur. It will take you longer to stop the vehicle. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer immediately.

Instrumentation

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: If the ABS light stays illuminated or continues to flash, a malfunction has been detected, have the system serviced immediately. Normal braking is still functional unless the brake warning light also is illuminated.

Safety belt: Reminds you to fasten your safety belt. A chime will also sound to remind you to fasten your safety belt.

Charging system: Illuminates when the battery is not charging properly.

BRAKE

ABS

Oil pressure/Engine coolant:

Illuminates when any of the following conditions has occurred:

• The engine coolant temperature is high.

• The engine oil pressure is low.

Check the engine oil and coolant level refer to Adding engine oil and Adding coolant in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter.

Instrumentation

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

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.

Door ajar: Illuminates when the ignition is in the ON position and any door is open.

LOW

FUEL

RESET

DOOR

AJAR

Turn signal: Illuminates when the left or right turn signal or the hazard lights are turned on. If the indicators stay on or flash faster, check for a burned out bulb.

High beams: Illuminates when the high beam headlamps are turned on.

Key-in-ignition warning chime: Sounds when the key is left in the ignition in the OFF/LOCK or ACC position and the driver’s door is opened.

Headlamps on warning chime: Sounds when the headlamps or parking lamps are on, the ignition is off (and the key is not in the ignition) and the driver’s door is opened.

GAUGES

BRAKE

LOW FUEL

+ -

BRAKE

+ -

MPH km/h

PRN 21

Speedometer: Indicates the current vehicle speed.

Engine coolant temperature gauge: Indicates engine coolant

temperature. At normal operating temperature, the needle will be in the normal range (between “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 and let the engine cool.

000000

000

Instrumentation

100

120

140

180

100

RPMx1000

FUEL

RESET

SERVICE

ENGINE

SOON

ABS

DOOR AJAR

Never remove the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is running or hot.

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.

Battery voltage gauge: Indicates the battery voltage when the ignition is in the ON position. If the pointer moves and stays outside the normal operating range (as indicated by arrows), have the vehicle’s electrical system checked as soon as possible.

Engine oil pressure gauge:

Indicates engine oil pressure. The needle should stay in the normal operating range (between “L” and “H”). If the needle falls below the normal range, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine and check the engine oil level. Add oil if needed. If the oil level is correct, have your vehicle checked at your dealership or by a qualified technician.

Fuel gauge: Indicates approximately how much fuel is left in the fuel tank (when the ignition is in the ON position).

Instrumentation

Lights

HEADLAMP CONTROL

Turns the lamps off.

Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps.

Turns the headlamps on.

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 the lever toward the instrument panel to activate. Pull the lever towards you to deactivate.

Lights

Flash to pass

Pull toward you slightly to activate and release to deactivate.

PANEL DIMMER CONTROL

Use to adjust the brightness of the instrument panel and all applicable switches in the vehicle during headlamp and parklamp operation.

Move the control to the full upright position, past detent, to turn on the interior lamps.

Move the control to the full down position, past detent, to prevent the interior lights from illuminating when the doors are opened.

BULBS

Replacing exterior bulbs

Check the operation of all the bulbs frequently.

PANEL

DIM

Driver controls

MULTI-FUNCTION LEVER

Windshield wiper: Rotate the end of the control away from you to increase the speed of the wipers; rotate towards you to decrease the speed of the wipers.

Windshield washer: Push the end of the stalk:

• briefly: causes three swipes of the wipers without washer fluid.

• a quick push and hold: the wipers will swipe four times with washer fluid.

• a long push and hold: the wipers and washer fluid will be activated for up to ten seconds.

TILT STEERING WHEEL (IF EQUIPPED)

To adjust the steering wheel:

1. Pull and hold the steering wheel

release control toward you.

2. Move the steering wheel up or

down until you find the desired location.

3. Release the steering wheel

release control. This will lock the steering wheel in position.

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is moving.

Driver controls

SPEED CONTROL (IF EQUIPPED)

With speed control set, you can maintain a speed of 48 km/h (30 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the pedal. Speed control does not work at speeds below 48 km/h (30 mph).

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

SETTING SPEED CONTROL

The controls for using your speed control are located on the steering wheel for your convenience.

1. Press the ON control and release

it.

2. Accelerate to the desired speed.

3. Press the SET ACCEL control

and release it.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator

pedal.

5. The indicator light on the

instrument cluster will turn on.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Note:

• Vehicle speed may vary momentarily when driving up and down a steep hill.

• If the vehicle speed increases above the set speed on a downhill, you may want to apply the brakes to reduce the speed.

• If the vehicle speed decreases more than 16 km/h (10 mph) below your set speed on an uphill, your speed control will disengage.

Driver controls

RESUMING A SET SPEED

Press the RES (resume) control and release it. This will automatically return the vehicle to the previously set speed. The RES control will not work if the vehicle speed is not faster than 48 km/h (30 mph).

INCREASING SPEED WHILE USING SPEED CONTROL

There are two ways to set a higher speed:

• Press and hold the SET ACCEL control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the SET ACCEL control to operate the Tap-Up function. Press and release this control to increase the vehicle set speed in small amounts by 1.6 km/h (1 mph).

• Use the accelerator pedal to get to the desired speed. When the vehicle reaches that speed press and release the SET ACCEL control.

REDUCING SPEED WHILE USING SPEED CONTROL

There are two ways to reduce a set speed:

• Press and hold the COAST control until you get to the desired speed, then release the control. You can also use the COAST control to operate the Tap-Down function. Press and release this control to decrease the vehicle set speed in small amounts by 1.6 km/h (1 mph).

RES

ACCEL

COAST

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

SET

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

Driver controls

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

TURNING OFF SPEED CONTROL

There are two ways to turn off the speed control:

• Depress the brake pedal or the clutch pedal (if equipped). This will not erase your vehicles previously set speed.

• Press the speed control OFF control.

Note: When you turn off the speed control or the ignition, your speed control set speed memory is erased.

RES

SET

ACCEL

COAST

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. This position also allows the automatic transmission shift lever to be moved from the P (Park) position without the brake pedal being depressed.

In the ignition OFF position, the automatic transmission shift

lever can be moved from the P (Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.

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.

Driving

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.

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 higher than normal in order 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.

Driving

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

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

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

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

2. Turn the key to 5 (START), then release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.

Driving

Note: If the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to 3 (OFF), wait 10 seconds and try again. If the engine still fails to start, press the accelerator to the floor and try again; this will allow the engine to crank with the fuel shut off in case the engine is flooded with fuel.

Using the engine block heater (if equipped)

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. 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

Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.

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

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

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;

Driving

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.

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.

Driving

• The anti-lock system does not 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.

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

Driving

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 the ignition to the LOCK position and

remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

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 the 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).

In the ignition OFF position, the automatic transmission shift

lever can be moved from the P (Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.

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.

Driving

Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps

are working.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is

latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.

If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp

remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly. See your dealer or a qualified service technician.

Driving with a 4–speed automatic transmission

Understanding gearshift positions

To put your vehicle in gear, start the engine, depress the brake pedal, then move gearshift lever out of P (Park).

Hold the brake pedal down while you move the gearshift lever

from P (Park) to another position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

P (Park)

Always come to a complete stop before shifting into P (Park). Make sure the gearshift lever is securely latched in P (Park). This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning.

Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift

lever is latched in P (Park). Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle.

R (Reverse)

With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse).

N (Neutral)

With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this gear.

(Overdrive)

The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through four.

(Overdrive) can be deactivated by pressing the transmission control switch (TCS) on the end of the gearshift lever.

The transmission control indicator light (TCIL) (the word OFF) on the end of the gearshift lever will illuminate.

Driving

OFF

OVERDRIVE

Drive – Not shown on the display. Activate by pressing the transmission control switch (TCS) on the end of the gearshift lever with the gearshift in the

position. The TCIL (the word OFF) will illuminate on the gearshift lever. Transmission operates in gears one through three. (Drive) provides more engine braking than (Overdrive) and is useful

when:

• driving with a heavy load.

• towing a trailer up or down steep hills.

• additional engine downhill braking is desired. If towing a trailer, refer

to Driving while you tow in the Trailer towing section.

To return to

(Overdrive) mode, press the transmission control switch

(TCS). The TCIL (the word OFF) will no longer be illuminated.

+ 67 hidden pages

Ford F 53 Motorhome Chassis 2003 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual