1998 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 285

Leave the coolant in all year. Make sure that the coolant will not freeze at the temperature level in which you usually drive during winter months. Keep an engine coolant in your engine that has a protection rating of at least Ҁ20˚F (Ҁ29˚C). To find out how much engine coolant mixture your vehicle's coolant system can hold, see Refill Capacities in Capacities and Specifications chapter. You may add water by itself only in an emergency, but you should replace it with a 50/50 mixture of water and coolant as soon as possible. Have your dealer check the engine cooling system for leaks if you have to add engine coolant more than once a month, or you have to add more than a quart (liter) at a time. Checking Hoses Inspect all engine and heater system hoses for deterioration, leaks and loose clamps before adding or replacing engine coolant. Make whatever repairs or replacements are necessary using Motorcraft parts or their equivalents. Engine Coolant Drain and Flush To drain and flush your engine coolant, you MUST see your Ford dealer or refer to the procedure in the service manual. Failing to do so could result in engine damage. Power Steering Fluid Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall). To check the level of your power steering fluid: 1. Start the engine and let it run until the power steering fluid reaches normal operating temperature. The power steering fluid will reach the right temperature after at least five minutes of idling or at least one mile (1 km) of driving. 286