1997 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 173

Maintenance and care 1. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground. If the engine is warm, turn the engine off and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan. 2. Set the parking brake and ensure the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park). 3. Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat. 4. Locate and carefully remove the engine oil dipstick. 5. Wipe the dipstick clean. Insert the dipstick fully, then remove it again. If the oil level falls between the MIN and MAX markings, there is no need to refill.. 6. If the oil level is below the minimum line, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is above the maximum line, engine damage or high oil consumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine by a service technician. 7. Put the dipstick back in and ensure it is fully seated. Adding engine oil 1. Check the engine oil. For instructions, refer to Checking the engine oil in this chapter. MIN MAX 174