2003 Ford F250 7.3L Diesel Supplement 3rd Printing - Page 33

General maintenance information Do not handle a hot oil filter with bare hands. Clean the filter mounting area on the oil cooler, lightly coat the gasket surface of the new filter with clean engine oil and hand tighten until the gasket contacts the base. Then tighten another 1-1/4 to 2 turns. Fill the crankcase and run the engine to check for leaks. Continuous contact with USED motor oil has caused cancer in laboratory mice. Protect your skin by washing with soap and water. Engine lubrication for severe service operation The following severe service operating conditions require unique engine maintenance procedures: • towing a trailer over 1,600 km (1,000 miles) • sustained, high speed driving at Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (maximum loaded weight for vehicle operation during hot weather-above 32°C [90°F]). • frequent or extended idling (over 10 minutes per hour of normal driving). • operating in severe dust conditions. • frequent, short trips of 16 km (10 miles) or less during freezing weather If you are operating your vehicle under any of these conditions, observe the following service procedures: • Change engine oil and filter every 5,000 km (3,000 miles). • Use Motorcraft oil or an equivalent oil conforming to Ford Specification WSS-M2C171-C or API categories CH-4, CH-4/SJ, CH-4/SL or DHD-1. If CH-4 oil is not available, CG-4 is acceptable.. For more information refer the Severe Duty Maintenance Schedule in the "Service Guide". REPLACING THE AIR FILTER ELEMENT When replacing the air filter element, use the Motorcraft air filter element listed. Refer to Lubricant and Maintenance Materials Specifications in this supplement. 33