Your vehicle is also equipped with a bypass relief valve, located in the
fuel tank pick-up boot, which provides fuel flow to the engine if the fuel
pickup should become plugged by ice or wax. To allow the bypass valve
to function and avoid engine fuel starvation, it is recommended that,
during cold weather operation 32°F (0°C) or below, the fuel level in your
tank should not be allowed to drop below
1
⁄
4
full. This will help prevent
air from entering the fuel system and stalling the engine.
In cold weather below 32°F (0°C), the engine will slowly increase to a
higher idle speed if left idling in P (Park). As the engine warms-up, the
engine sound level will decrease due to the activation of PCM-controlled
sound reduction features.
If your vehicle is operated in a heavy snow storm or blowing snow
conditions, the engine air induction may become partially clogged with
snow and/or ice. If this occurs, the engine may experience a significant
reduction in power output. At the earliest opportunity, clear all the snow
and/or ice away from inside the air filter assembly. Take the top off the
assembly, leaving the air filter in, and remove any snow or ice.
In order to operate the engine in temperatures of 32°F (0°C) or lower,
read the following instructions:
•
Make sure that the batteries are of sufficient size and are fully
charged. Check other electrical components to make sure they are in
optimum condition.
•
Use Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant solution at the
concentration recommended to protect the engine against damage
from freezing.
•
Try to keep the fuel tank full as much as possible at the end of
operation to prevent condensation in the fuel system.
•
Make sure you use proper cold weather engine oil and that it is at its
proper level. Also, if necessary, make sure to follow the engine oil and
filter change schedule found under the
Special operating conditions
section in the
scheduled maintenance guide
information.
•
At temperatures of -10°F (-23°C) or below, it is recommended that
you use an engine block heater to improve cold engine starting.
•
If operating in arctic temperatures of -20°F (-29°C) or lower, consult
your truck dealer for information about special cold weather
equipment and precautions.
Note:
Idling in cold weather will not heat the engine to its normal
operating temperature. Long periods of idling in cold weather can cause
a buildup of heavy deposits of carbon and rust on valve stems causing
them to stick, which in turn, can cause valve train damage.
2009 Econoline
(eco)
Supplement, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)
Driving
14
