2003 Ford Excursion 7.3L Diesel Supplement 3rd Printing - Page 11
2003 Ford Excursion Manual
Page 11 highlights
Starting 4. When the engine starts, release the key. The glow plugs will continue to be activated for up to two minutes. If the engine is not started before the activation ceases, the glow plug system must be reset by turning the ignition key to OFF. 5. After the engine starts, allow it to idle for about 15 seconds. (Do not increase engine speed until the oil pressure gauge indicates normal pressure.) STOPPING THE ENGINE Turn the ignition to OFF. To prolong engine life (after extended high speed or maximum GVW operation), it is recommended that a hot engine be allowed to operate at low idle for about 7-10 minutes which would allow sufficient time for the turbocharged engine to cool down. COLD WEATHER OPERATION Changing to a lighter grade engine oil also makes starting easier under these conditions. Refer to Engine Oil Specifications in the General maintenance information chapter. At temperatures below -7°C (20°F), Number 2-D Diesel fuel may thicken enough to clog the fuel filter. Your engine is equipped with a fuel filter/heater/water/separator to keep the wax melted which will help prevent fuel filter clogging. However, if the engine starts but stalls after a short time and will not restart, the fuel filter may be clogged. For best results in cold weather, use Number 1-D Diesel fuel or "winterized" Number 2-D Diesel fuel which has an additive to minimize wax formation. Your vehicle is also equipped with a bypass relief valve, located on the in-tank fuel sending unit, which provides fuel flow to the engine if the fuel pickup should become plugged by ice or wax. To allow this bypass valve to function and avoid engine fuel starvation, it is recommended that, during cold weather operation 0°C (32°F) or below, the fuel level in your tank should not be allowed to drop below 1/4 full. This will help prevent air from entering the fuel system and stalling the engine. In cold weather below 0°C (32°F) your Diesel engine will slowly increase to a higher idle speed if left idling in P (Park). The sound of the engine may change also, as an exhaust device engages to improve heater performance and reduce exhaust smoke. 11