1999 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 215

Maintenance and care 1. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature (the engine coolant temperature gauge indicator will be near the center of the normal area between H and C). 2. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel left and right several times. 3. Turn the engine off. 4. If your vehicle is equipped with a 4.0L OHV V6 engine, check the fluid level on the dipstick. It should be within the FULL HOT range. Do not add fluid if the level is within this range. 5. If your vehicle is equipped with a 4.0L SOHC V6 or a 5.0L V8 engine, check the fluid level in the reservoir. It should be between the MIN and MAX lines. Do not add fluid if the level is within this range. 6. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking the level until it reaches the correct operating range. Be sure to put the cap back on the reservoir. TRANSMISSION FLUID Checking automatic transmission fluid Refer to your Scheduled Maintenance Guide for scheduled intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up (approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking. 1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating temperature. 2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. 3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage. 4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running. 215