1996 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 251

Driving Your Explorer Manual Transmission Operation Using the Clutch Make sure the gearshift lever is in the N (Neutral) position and your right foot is holding down the brake pedal. Then press the clutch pedal to the floor with your left foot. Manual transmission vehicles have a starter interlock switch. The starter will not crank until the clutch pedal is fully depressed. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few seconds. Move the gearshift into 1 (First) or R (Reverse). To move the vehicle, release the clutch slowly and at the same time press down slowly on the accelerator so that the vehicle accelerates. Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill while waiting on a hill. These actions will seriously reduce clutch life. Driving with your foot resting on the clutch may cause the vehicle to jerk sharply when pressing or removing your other foot from the accelerator. Shifting the Gears The gearshift for a manual transmission is mounted on the floor. The gearshift pattern consists of seven positions: Neutral, five forward gears, and Reverse. 5-Speed Overdrive manual transmission shift pattern 251