1997 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 31

6 Instrumentation The fuel gauge Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge Engine coolant temperature gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine's coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. The gauge is identified by a thermometer symbol, an "H" (hot), and a "C" (cold). The "NORM" indicates the normal operating range. The bars will move into the normal operating range as the engine coolant warms up. It is acceptable for the bars to fluctuate within the normal operating range under normal driving conditions. Under certain driving conditions, such as heavy stop and go traffic, or driving up hills in hot weather, the gauge may indicate at the top of the NORMAL band. This is also acceptable. If, under any circumstances, the bars move above the NORMAL band, the temperature symbol will flash and a chime will sound to alert the driver that the engine coolant is overheating and continued operation may cause engine damage. 29