2003 Ford Excursion 7.3L Diesel Supplement 3rd Printing - Page 7

Diesel information Blowing-out the air filter element with compressed air is not recommended as the compressed air may damage the filter paper. Note: It is not possible to determine the level of filter clogging by visual appearance alone. A filter which appears to be dirty may actually have several thousand kilometers (miles) of life remaining. Always use the underhood air filter restriction gauge or engine air filter warning light on the instrument cluster to determine when the air filter element needs to be changed. After servicing the air filter element, reset the restriction gauge by pressing the button on the end of the gauge. Note: If the vehicle is operated in a heavy snow storm, in blowing snow or the vehicle is equipped with a snowplow, the engine air filter element may become partially clogged with snow and/or ice. If this occurs, the air filter restriction gauge will move to the CHANGE FILTER mark and the engine may experience a significant reduction in power output. The vehicle may be driven under these conditions for up to 160 km (100 miles) without damage to the engine or related components. At the earliest opportunity, clear all snow and ice from the air induction system and replace the air filter element, or remove the element and dry it out. Reset the restriction gauge by pressing the button on the end of the gauge. The air filter warning light on the instrument cluster may be used, in addition to the underhood restriction gauge, to monitor the condition of the air filter element. Refer to the Warning Lights chapter. 7