1998 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 24

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant, not the coolant level. If the coolant is not at its proper level or mixture, the gauge indication will not be accurate. Engine coolant temperature gauge - base cluster The pointer moves from the C (cold) mark into the NORMAL band as the engine coolant warms up. It is acceptable for the pointer to fluctuate within the normal band under normal driving conditions. Under certain driving conditions such as heavy stop and go traffic, or driving up hills in hot weather, the pointer may indicate at the top of the NORMAL band. This is also acceptable. If, under any circumstances, the pointer moves above the NORMAL band, the engine is overheating and continued operation may cause engine damage. If your engine overheats: 1. Pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible. 2. Turn off the engine. If you do not stop the engine as soon as safely possible, severe engine damage could result. 22