2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Owner Guide 1st Printing (Spanish) - Page 353

Driving Parking On some 4WD vehicles, when the transfer case is in the N (Neutral) position, the engine and transmission are disconnected from the rest of the driveline. Therefore, the vehicle is free to roll even if the automatic transmission is in P (Park) or the manual transmission is in gear. Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in N (Neutral) position. Always set the parking brake fully and turn off the ignition when leaving the vehicle. Normal characteristics On some 4WD vehicles, the initial shift from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive while the vehicle is moving can cause some momentary clunk and ratcheting sounds. This is normal and should be no cause for concern. Driving on sand, mud and water When driving over sand, avoid reducing the tire pressures; instead, shift to a lower gear. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels. If you must reduce the tire pressure, make sure you re-inflate the tires as soon as possible. Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against your vehicle and cause it to become stuck. If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or braking ability may be reduced. Also, if the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. Once you're through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes. When driving through mud, be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction. Even 4WD vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. If the transmission, transfer case or either axle become submerged in mud or water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts could damage driveline components. 123