COLD WEATHER OPERATION
Changing to a lighter grade engine oil also makes starting easier under
these conditions. Refer to
Engine oil specifications
in the
Maintenance
and Specifications
chapter of this supplement.
Diesel fuel is adjusted seasonally for cold temperatures. Diesel fuel which
has not been properly formulated for the ambient conditions may form
wax crystals which can clog the fuel filter. At temperatures below 20°F
(–7°C), if the engine starts, stalls after a short time, and then will not
restart, the fuel filter(s) may be clogged. For best results in cold
weather, use a diesel fuel which has been formulated for the ambient
conditions. If you have been using biodiesel, you may need to use a fuel
with lower biodiesel content, try another brand, or discontinue using
biodiesel.
Your vehicle is equipped with either an FCM or HFCM which recirculates
fuel from the engine to help prevent fuel filter clogging. 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. To allow the bypass valve to function and avoid engine
fuel starvation during cold weather operation of 32°F (0°C) or below, it
is recommended that 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 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.
Driving
14
2010 Econoline
(eco)
Supplement
(supplement)
, 1st Printing
USA
(fus)
