Download PDF Manual

Seating and Safety Restraints


Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.


Safety belt warning light and indicator chime The safety belt warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster and a chime sounds to remind the occupants to fasten their safety belts.


Conditions of operation If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position... The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the indicator light is illuminated and the warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position...


Then... The safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds 4-8 seconds.


The safety belt warning light and warning chime turn off.


The indicator chime will remain off and the safety belt warning lamp will illuminate for 4-8 seconds.


BeltMinder The BeltMinder feature is a supplemental warning to the safety belt warning function. This feature provides additional reminders to the driver that the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled by intermittently sounding a chime and illuminating the safety belt warning lamp in the instrument cluster.


91


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


If... The driver’s safety belt is not buckled approximately 5
seconds after the safety belt warning light has turned off...


Then... The BeltMinder feature is activated - the safety belt warning light illuminates and the warning chime sounds for 6 seconds every 30
seconds, repeating for approximately 5 minutes or until safety belt is buckled. The BeltMinder feature will not activate.


The driver’s safety belt is buckled while the safety belt indicator light is illuminated and the safety belt warning chime is sounding... The driver’s safety belt is buckled before the ignition switch is turned to the ON position... The following are reasons most often given for not wearing safety belts: (All statistics based on U.S. data) Reasons given... “Crashes are rare events”


The BeltMinder feature will not activate.


Consider... 36700 crashes occur every day. The more we drive, the more we are exposed to “rare” events, even for good drivers. 1 in 4 of us will be seriously injured in a crash during our lifetime. 3 of 4 fatal crashes occur within 25
miles of home. We design our safety belts to enhance comfort. If you are uncomfortable - try different positions for the safety belt upper anchorage and seatback which should be as upright as possible; this can improve comfort.


“I’m not going far”


“Belts are uncomfortable”


92


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Reasons given... “I was in a hurry”


“Seat belts don’t work”


“Traffic is light”


“Belts wrinkle my clothes”


“The people I’m with don’t wear belts”


“I have an air bag”


“I’d rather be thrown clear”


Seating and Safety Restraints


Consider... Prime time for an accident. BeltMinder reminds us to take a few seconds to buckle up. Safety belts, when used properly, reduce risk of death to front seat occupants by 45% in cars, and by 60% in light trucks. Nearly 1 of 2 deaths occur in single-vehicle crashes, many when no other vehicles are around. Possibly, but a serious crash can do much more than wrinkle your clothes, particularly if you are unbelted. Set the example, teen deaths occur 4
times more often in vehicles with TWO or MORE people. Children and younger brothers/sisters imitate behavior they see. Air bags offer greater protection when used with safety belts. Frontal airbags are not designed to inflate in rear and side crashes or rollovers. People who are ejected are 40
times more likely to DIE. Safety belts help prevent ejection, WE CAN’T “PICK OUR CRASH”.


Do not sit on top of a buckled safety belt to avoid the Belt Minder chime. Sitting on the safety belt will increase the risk of


injury in an accident. To disable (one-time) or deactivate the Belt Minder feature please follow the directions stated below.


One time disable Any time the safety belt is buckled and then unbuckled during an ignition ON cycle, the BeltMinder will be disabled for that ignition cycle only.


93


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Deactivating/activating the BeltMinder feature Read steps 1 - 5 thoroughly before proceeding with the deactivation/activation programming procedure. The BeltMinder feature can be deactivated/activated by performing the following procedure: Before following the procedure, make sure that: • the parking brake is set • the gearshift is in P (Park) (automatic transmission) • the ignition switch is in the OFF position • all vehicle doors are closed • the driver’s safety belt is unbuckled • the parklamps/headlamps are in OFF position


To reduce the risk of injury, do not deactivate/activate the Belt Minder feature while driving the vehicle.


1. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN (or ON) position. (DO NOT START THE ENGINE.) 2. Wait until the safety belt warning light turns off. (Approximately 1
minute) • Step 3 must be completed within 50 seconds after the safety belt


warning light turns off.


3. Buckle then unbuckle the safety belt 9 times, ending with the safety belt in the unbuckled state. • After step 3 is complete, the airbag warning light will be turned on for • Beltminder will automatically exit programming mode without


3 seconds.


changing its enable status if step 4 does not occur within 10 seconds of the end of step 3.


4. Within 10 seconds of the light turning on, buckle then unbuckle the safety belt. • This will disable the BeltMinder feature for that seating position if it is currently enabled. As confirmation, the airbag warning light will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds. • This will enable the BeltMinder feature for that seating position if it is currently disabled. As confirmation, the restraint system warning light


94


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


will flash 4 times per second for 3 seconds, followed by 3 seconds with the light off, then followed by the airbag warning light flashing 4 times per second for 3 seconds again.


5. After receiving confirmation, the deactivation/activation procedure is complete.


Safety belt extension assembly If the safety belt is too short when fully extended, there is a 8 inch (20
cm) safety belt extension assembly that can be added (part number 611C22). This assembly can be obtained from your dealer at no cost. Use only extensions manufactured by the same supplier as the safety belt. Manufacturer identification is located at the end of the webbing on the label. Also, use the safety belt extension only if the safety belt is too short for you when fully extended.


Do not use extensions to change the fit of the shoulder belt across the torso.


Safety belt maintenance Inspect the safety belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the safety belts to make sure there are no nicks, tears or cuts. Replace if necessary. All safety belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assemblies, buckle support assemblies (slide bar-if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), shoulder belt guide on seatback (if equipped), child safety seat LATCH and tether anchors, and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford Motor Company recommends that all safety belt assemblies in use in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.


Failure to inspect and if necessary replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe


personal injuries in the event of a collision.


Refer to Interior in the Cleaning chapter.


95


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS)


Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly; there is a risk of injury from a deploying air bag.


All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag


supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.


Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints. Never place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must transport a forward-facing child in the front seat, move the seat all the way back and use appropriate restraints.


96


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 25 cm (10 inches)


between an occupant’s chest and the driver air bag module.


Never place your arm over the air bag module as a deploying air bag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.


To properly position yourself away from the air bag: • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the • Recline the seat slightly one or two degrees from the upright position.


pedals comfortably.


Do not put anything on or over the air bag module. Placing objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those


objects to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing serious injury.


Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or


Lincoln Mercury dealer.


Modifying or adding equipment to the front end of the vehicle (including frame, bumper, front end body structure and tow


hooks) may affect the performance of the air bag system, increasing the risk of injury. Do not modify the front end of the vehicle.


Additional equipment may affect the performance of the air bag sensors increasing the risk of injury. Please refer to the Body


Builders Layout Book for instructions about the appropriate installation of additional equipment.


97


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Children and air bags Children must always be properly restrained. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Failure to follow these instructions may increase the risk of injury in a collision.


Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat.


NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.


How does the air bag supplemental restraint system work? The air bag SRS is designed to activate when the vehicle sustains a longitudinal deceleration sufficient to cause the air bag sensors to close an electrical circuit that initiates air bag inflation. The fact that the air bags did not inflate in a collision does not mean that something is wrong with the system. Rather, it means the forces were not sufficient enough to cause activation. Air bags are designed to inflate in frontal and near-frontal collisions, not rollover, side-impact, or rear-impacts unless the collision causes sufficient longitudinal deceleration.


98


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


The air bags inflate and deflate rapidly upon activation. After air bag deployment, it is normal to notice a smoke-like, powdery residue or smell the burnt propellant. This may consist of cornstarch, talcum powder or sodium compounds which may irritate the skin and eyes, but none of the residue is toxic. While the SRS is designed to help reduce serious injuries, contact with a deploying air bag may also cause abrasions, swelling or temporary hearing loss. Because air bags must inflate rapidly and with considerable force, there is the risk of death or serious injuries such as fractures, facial and eye injuries or internal injuries, particularly to occupants who are not properly restrained or are otherwise out of position at the time of air bag deployment. It is extremely important that occupants be properly restrained as far away from the air bag module as possible while maintaining vehicle control. The SRS consists of: • driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and • one or more impact and safing sensors • a readiness light and tone • a diagnostic module • and the electrical wiring which connects the components The diagnostic module monitors its own internal circuits and the supplemental air bag electrical system wiring (including the impact sensors), the system wiring, the air bag system readiness light, the air bag back up power and the air bag ignitors.


air bags)


Several air bag system components get hot after inflation. Do not touch them after inflation.


If the air bag has deployed, the air bag will not function again and must be replaced immediately. If the air bag is not


replaced, the unrepaired area will increase the risk of injury in a collision.


99


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Determining if the system is operational The SRS uses a readiness light in the instrument cluster or a tone to indicate the condition of the system. Refer to Air bag readiness section in the Instrument Cluster chapter. Routine maintenance of the air bag is not required. A difficulty with the system is indicated by one or more of the following: • The readiness light will either • The readiness light will not • A series of five beeps will be heard. The tone pattern will repeat


illuminate immediately after ignition is turned on.


flash or stay lit.


periodically until the problem and/or light are repaired.


If any of these things happen, even intermittently, have the SRS serviced at your dealership or by a qualified technician immediately. Unless serviced, the system may not function properly in the event of a collision.


Disposal of air bags and air bag equipped vehicles (including pretensioners) See your local dealership or qualified technician. Air bags MUST BE disposed of by qualified personnel.


SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR CHILDREN See the following sections for directions on how to properly use safety restraints for children. Also see Air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) in this chapter for special instructions about using air bags.


100


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Important SRS precautions The SRS is designed to work with the safety belt to help protect the driver and right front passenger from certain upper body injuries. Air bags DO NOT inflate slowly; there is a risk of injury from a deploying air bag.


All occupants of the vehicle, including the driver, should always properly wear their safety belts, even when an air bag


supplemental restraint system (SRS) is provided.


Always transport children 12 years old and under in the back seat and always properly use appropriate child restraints.


The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum distance of at least 10 inches (25 cm)


between an occupant’s chest and the driver air bag module.


Never place your arm over the air bag module as a deploying air bag can result in serious arm fractures or other injuries.


To properly position yourself away from the air bag: • Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the • Recline the seat slightly one or two degrees from the upright position.


pedals comfortably.


Do not put anything on or over the air bag module. Placing objects on or over the air bag inflation area may cause those


objects to be propelled by the air bag into your face and torso causing serious injury.


101


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Do not attempt to service, repair, or modify the air bag supplemental restraint systems or its fuses. See your Ford or


Lincoln Mercury dealer.


Children and safety belts If the child is the proper size, restrain the child in a safety seat. Children who are too large for child safety seats (as specified by your child safety seat manufacturer) should always wear safety belts. Follow all the important safety restraint and air bag precautions that apply to adult passengers in your vehicle. If the shoulder belt portion of a combination lap and shoulder belt can be positioned so it does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck, the child should wear the lap and shoulder belt. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide a good shoulder belt fit.


Do not leave children, unreliable adults, or pets unattended in your vehicle.


Child booster seats Children outgrow a typical convertible or toddler seat when they weigh 40 pounds (18 kg) and are around 4 years of age. Although the lap/shoulder belt will provide some protection, these children are still too small for lap/shoulder belts to fit properly, which could increase the risk of serious injury. To improve the fit of both the lap and shoulder belt on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Ford Motor Company recommends use of a belt-positioning booster. Booster seats position a child so that safety belts fit better. They lift the child up so that the lap belt rests low across the hips and the knees bend comfortably. Booster seats also make the shoulder belt fit better and more comfortably for growing children. When children should use booster seats Children need to use booster seats from the time they outgrow the toddler seat until they are big enough for the vehicle seat and lap/shoulder belt to fit properly. Generally this is when they weigh about 80 lbs (36 kg) (about 8 to 12 years old). Booster seats should be used until you can answer YES to ALL of these questions:


102


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


• Can the child sit all the way back against the vehicle seat back with knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat without slouching?


• Does the lap belt rest low across the hips? • Is the shoulder belt centered on the shoulder and chest? • Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip? Types of booster seats There are two types of belt-positioning booster seats: • Those that are backless.


If your backless booster seat has a removable shield, remove the shield and use the lap/shoulder belt. If a seating position has a low seat back and no head restraint, a backless booster seat may place your child’s head (top of ear level) above the top of the seat. In this case, move the backless booster to another seating position with a higher seat back and lap/shoulder belts.


• Those with a high back.


If, with a backless booster seat, you cannot find a seating position that adequately supports your child’s head, a high back booster seat would be a better choice.


Both can be used in any vehicle in a seating position equipped with lap/shoulder belts if your child is over 40 lbs (18 kg).


103


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


The shoulder belt should cross the chest, resting snugly on the center of the shoulder. The lap belt should rest low and snug across the hips, never up high across the stomach. If the booster seat slides on the vehicle seat, placing a rubberized mesh sold as shelf or carpet liner under the booster seat may improve this condition. The importance of shoulder belts Using a booster without a shoulder belt increases the risk of a child’s head hitting a hard surface in a collision. For this reason, you should never use a booster seat with a lap belt only. It is best to use a booster seat with lap/shoulder belts in the back seat- the safest place for children to ride.


Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer of the booster seat.


Never put the shoulder belt under a child’s arm or behind the back because it eliminates the protection for the upper part of


the body and may increase the risk of injury or death in a collision.


Never use pillows, books, or towels to boost a child. They can slide around and increase the likelihood of injury or death in a


collision.


SAFETY SEATS FOR CHILDREN


Child and infant or child safety seats Use a safety seat that is recommended for the size and weight of the child. Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.


104


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


When installing a child safety seat: • Review and follow the information presented in the Air Bag Supplemental Restraint System section in this chapter. • Use the correct safety belt buckle for that seating position (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from).


• Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle. • For the front passenger seat, keep the buckle release button pointing up and away from the safety seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button, to prevent accidental unbuckling.


• For the front passenger seat, place seat back in upright position. • Put the safety belt in the automatic locking mode. Refer to Automatic


locking mode (passenger side front and outboard rear seating positions) (if equipped).


• LATCH lower anchors are recommended for use by children up to 48
pounds (22 kg) in a child restraint. Top tether anchors can be used for children up to 60 pounds (27 kg) in a child restraint, and to provide upper torso restraint for children up to 80 pounds (36 kg) using an upper torso harness and a belt-positioning booster.


Ford recommends the use of a child safety seat having a top tether strap. Install the child safety seat in a seating position with LATCH and tether anchors. For more information on top tether straps and anchors, refer to Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this chapter. For more information of LATCH anchors refer to Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments in this chapter.


Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions included with the safety seat you put in your vehicle. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.


105


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Installing child safety seats with combination lap and shoulder belts 1. Position the child safety seat in a seat with a combination lap and shoulder belt.


An air bag can kill or injure a child in a child seat. Never place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must


use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.


Children 12 and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat whenever possible.


2. Pull down on the shoulder belt and then grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together.


106


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


3. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.


4. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until you hear a snap and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.


5. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is extracted.


6. Allow the belt to retract. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.


107


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


7. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down with your knee on the child seat.


8. Allow the safety belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt. 9. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly tilt the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place. To check this, grab the seat at the belt path and attempt to move it side to side and forward and back. There should be no more than one inch of movement for proper installation. 10. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode (you should not be able to pull more belt out). If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat steps two through nine. Check to make sure the child seat is properly secured before each use.


Attaching safety seats with tether straps


Children should be placed in the rear in an appropriate child safety seat that is properly secured to the vehicle.


When using forward-facing child safety seats in vehicles with only two seating positions so the forward-facing child safety seat cannot be placed in the rear of the vehicle, move the passenger seat as far back from the instrument panel as possible.


108


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Because the last row of seats is not equipped with either child tether or LATCH anchors and is spaced closer to the row of seats in front, Do not use forward-facing or rear-facing child seats (other than belt-positioning boosters) in the last row.


Air bags can kill or injure a child in a child seat. NEVER place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active air bag. If you must


use a forward-facing child seat in the front seat, move the seat all the way back.


Front passenger seating position The tether can be attached directly to the rear of the front seat. 1. Position the child safety seat on the front right-hand passenger seat. 2. Adjust the front right-hand passenger seat full forward.


109


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


3. Route the child safety seat tether strap over the back of the front right-hand passenger seat as shown.


4. Clip the tether strap hook to the seat pedestal to the location shown.


5. Adjust the front right hand passenger seat to the full rearward position.


110


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


6. Install the child safety seat tightly using the LATCH anchors or safety belts. Follow the instructions in this chapter. 7. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.


Second row bucket seats (Chateau Quads) The tether strap can be attached directly to the tether bracket under the back edge of the seat cushion.


1. Position the child safety seat on the second row left hand or right hand bucket seat. 2. Route the child safety tether strap over the back of the left hand or right hand second row bucket seat.


111


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


3. Clip the tether strap hook to the seat pedestal at the location shown.


4. Install the child safety seat tightly using the LATCH anchors or safety belts. Follow the instructions in this chapter. 5. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Second, Third and Fourth row three passenger bench seats The tether strap can be attached directly to the tether bracket provided under the back edge of the seat cushion.


1. For second row 3–Passenger bench seat, place the child safety seat on the left hand outboard position, the center position, or the right hand outboard position as desired. For third row or fourth row 3–Passenger bench seat, place the child safety seat on the center position. 2. Route the child safety tether strap over the back of 3–Passenger bench seat.


112


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


3. Clip the tether strap hook to the tether bracket mounted under rear rail of seat cushion frame.


4. Install the child safety seat tightly using the LATCH anchors or safety belts. Follow the instructions in this chapter. 5. Tighten the child safety seat tether strap according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For additional important safety information on the proper use of seat belts, child seats and infant seats, please read the entire Seating and Safety Restraints chapter in this Owner’s Guide. Attaching safety seats with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) attachments for child seat anchors Some child safety seats have two rigid or webbing mounted attachments that connect to two anchors at certain seating positions in your vehicle. This type of child seat eliminates the need to use seat belts to attach the child seat. For forward-facing child seats, the tether strap must also be attached to the proper tether anchor. See Attaching safety seats with tether straps in this chapter. Your vehicle may be equipped with LATCH anchors for child seat installation at the seating positions marked with the child seat symbol:


• Five passenger crew van


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


113


Seating and Safety Restraints


• Seven passenger wagon


• Eight passenger wagon


• Twelve passenger wagon


• Fifteen passenger wagon


represents LATCH anchors.


represents tether strap anchors.


114


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Seating and Safety Restraints


Never attach two LATCH child safety seats to the same anchor. In a crash, one anchor may not be strong enough to hold two


child safety seat attachments and may break, causing serious injury or death.


The lower anchors for child seat installation are located at the rear section of the seat between the cushion and seat back.


Follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions to properly install a child seat with LATCH attachments.


Attach LATCH lower attachments of the child seat only to the anchors shown.


If you install a child seat with rigid LATCH attachments, do not tighten the tether strap enough to lift the child seat off the vehicle seat cushion when the child is seated in it. Keep the tether strap just snug without lifting the front of the child seat. Keeping the child seat just touching the vehicle seat gives the best protection in a severe crash. Each time you use the safety seat, check that the seat is properly attached to the lower anchors and tether anchor. Try to tilt the child seat from side to side. Also try to tug the seat forward. Check to see if the anchors hold the seat in place.


If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a crash greatly increases.


115


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Driving


STARTING


Positions of the ignition 1. ACCESSORY, allows the electrical accessories such as the radio to operate while the engine is not running. 2. LOCK, locks the automatic transmission gearshift lever and allows key removal. 3. OFF, shuts off the engine and all accessories without locking the steering wheel. This position also allows the automatic transmission shift lever to be moved from the P (Park) position without the brake pedal being depressed.


When the key is in the ignition and in the OFF position, the automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P


(Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.


4. ON, all electrical circuits operational. Warning lights illuminated. Key position when driving. 5. START, cranks the engine. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.


Preparing to start your vehicle Engine starting is controlled by the powertrain control system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise. When starting a fuel-injected engine, don’t press the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine. For more information on starting the vehicle, refer to Starting the engine in this chapter.


Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk


of fire or other damage.


116


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Do not park, idle, or drive your vehicle in dry grass or other dry ground cover. The emission system heats up the engine


compartment and exhaust system, which can start a fire.


Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or in other enclosed areas. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine. See Guarding against exhaust fumes in this chapter for more instructions.


If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell


exhaust fumes.


Important safety precautions When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. 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 the air induction inlet. The following starting instructions are for vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine; if your vehicle is equipped with a Diesel engine, refer to Starting the engine in the your Diesel owner guide supplement. Before starting the vehicle: 1. Make sure all occupants buckle their safety belts. For more information on safety belts and their proper usage, refer to the Seating and Safety Restraints chapter. 2. Make sure the headlamps and electrical accessories are off.


117


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving • Make sure the parking brake is


set.


• Make sure the gearshift is in P


(Park).


• Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START).


Make sure the corresponding lights illuminate or illuminate briefly. If a light fails to illuminate, have the vehicle serviced. • If the driver’s safety belt is fastened, the


light may not illuminate.


118


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Starting the engine 1. Turn the key to 4 (ON) without turning the key to 5 (START). 2. Turn the key to 5 (START), then release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could damage the starter.


Driving


Note: If the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to 3 (OFF), wait 10 seconds and try again. If the engine still fails to start, press the accelerator to the floor and try again; this will allow the engine to crank with the fuel shut off in case the engine is flooded with fuel.


Using the engine block heater (if equipped) Use of an engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -10°F (-23°C) or below. For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. The heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.


To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater)


adapters.


Guarding against exhaust fumes Carbon monoxide is present in exhaust fumes. Take precautions to avoid its dangerous effects.


If you smell exhaust fumes inside your vehicle, have your dealer inspect your vehicle immediately. Do not drive if you smell


exhaust fumes.


Important ventilating information If the engine is idling while the vehicle is stopped for a long period of time, open the windows at least one inch (2.5 cm) or adjust the heating or air conditioning to bring in fresh air.


119


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


BRAKES Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous grinding or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician. Refer to Brake system warning light in the Instrument Cluster chapter for information on the brake system warning light.


Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) Your vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This system helps you maintain steering control during emergency stops by keeping the brakes from locking. Noise from the ABS pump motor and brake pedal pulsation may be observed during ABS braking and the brake pedal may suddenly travel a little further as soon as ABS braking is done and normal brake operation resumes. These are normal characteristics of the ABS and should be no reason for concern. ABS warning lamp The ABS lamp in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on. If the light does not illuminate during start up, remains on or flashes, the ABS may be disabled and may need to be serviced. Even when the ABS is disabled, normal braking is still effective. (If your BRAKE warning lamp illuminates with the parking brake released, have your brake system serviced immediately.) Using ABS When hard braking is required, apply continuous force on the brake pedal; do not pump the brake pedal since this will reduce the effectiveness of the ABS and will increase your vehicle’s stopping distance. The ABS will be activated immediately, allowing you to retain full steering control during hard braking and on slippery surfaces. However, the ABS does not decrease stopping distance.


ABS


120


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Parking brake To set the parking brake (1), press the parking brake pedal down until the pedal stops. To release, pull the lever (2).


Always set the parking brake fully and make sure


that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park).


The BRAKE warning lamp will illuminate and will remain illuminated until the parking brake is released. The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle’s stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected.


STEERING To prevent damage to the power steering system: • Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it • Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level


stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.


(If the fluid level is below the FULL COLD range on the dipstick). If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. If the steering wanders or pulls, check for: • an improperly inflated tire • uneven tire wear • loose or worn suspension components • loose or worn steering components • improper steering alignment A high crown in the road or high crosswinds may also make the steering seem to wander/pull.


121


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


TRACTION-LOK AXLE (IF EQUIPPED) This axle provides added traction on slippery surfaces, particularly when one wheel is on a poor traction surface. Under normal conditions, the Traction-Lok axle functions like a standard rear axle. The axle may exhibit a slight noise or vibration in tight turns with low vehicle speed. This is normal behavior and indicates the axle is working. PREPARING TO DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE


Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles.


In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a safety belt.


Your vehicle has larger tires and increased ground clearance, giving the vehicle a higher center of gravity than a passenger car.


Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a


lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.


Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity, may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions such as


slower speeds and increased stopping distance should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.


VEHICLE STABILITY AND HANDLING The risk of a rollover crash increases as the number of people and load in the vehicle increase. This increased risk occurs because the passenger weight and load raises the vehicle’s center of gravity and causes it to shift rearward. As a result, the van has less resistance to rollover and handles differently from other commonly driven passenger vehicles, making it more difficult to control in an emergency situation. Placing any load on the roof also raises the center of gravity and increases the potential for rollover.


122


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


The van should be operated by an experienced driver. An organization that owns a 15–passenger van should select one or two experienced drivers to drive the van on a regular basis. These drivers will gain valuable experience handling the van. This experience will help make each trip safer. The van should be operated at a safe speed which, in some conditions, may be less than the posted speed limit. Further, all occupants should be properly restrained. Most people killed in rollover crashes were unbelted. Occupants can dramatically reduce their risk of being killed or seriously injured in a rollover crash by simply using their seat belts. Organizations that own 15–passenger vans should have a written seat belt use policy. Drivers should be responsible for enforcing the policy.


AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OPERATION


Brake-shift interlock This vehicle is equipped with a brake-shift interlock feature that prevents the gearshift lever from being moved from P (Park) when the ignition is in the ON position unless brake pedal is depressed. If you cannot move the gearshift lever out of P (Park) with ignition in the ON position and the brake pedal depressed: 1. Apply the parking brake, turn ignition key to LOCK, then remove the key. 2. Insert the key and turn it to OFF. Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral).


When the key is in the ignition and in the OFF position, the automatic transmission shift lever can be moved from the P


(Park) position without the brake pedal depressed. To avoid unwanted vehicle movement, always set the parking brake.


3. Start the vehicle. If it is necessary to use the above procedure to move the gearshift lever, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicle’s brakelamps are not operating properly. Refer to Fuses and relays in the Roadside Emergencies chapter.


Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brakelamps are working.


123


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and


remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.


If the parking brake is fully released, but the brake warning lamp remains illuminated, the brakes may not be working properly.


See your dealer or a qualified service technician.


Understanding the gearshift positions of the 4–speed automatic transmission


This vehicle is equipped with an adaptive Transmission Shift Strategy. Adaptive Shift Strategy offers the optimal transmission operation and shift quality. When the vehicle’s battery has been disconnected for any type of service or repair, the transmission will need to relearn the normal shift strategy parameters, much like having to reset your radio stations when your vehicle battery has been disconnected. The Adaptive Transmission Strategy allows the transmission to relearn these operating parameters. This learning process could take several transmission upshifts and downshifts; during this learning process, slightly firmer shifts may occur. After this learning process, normal shift feel and shift scheduling will resume. P (Park) This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Start the engine • Depress the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)


124


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and


remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.


R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral) With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.


(Overdrive)


The normal driving position for the best fuel economy. Transmission operates in gears one through four.


Overdrive can be deactivated by pressing the transmission control switch on the end of the gearshift lever. This transmission control indicator light (TCIL) will illuminate on the end of the gearshift.


OVERDRIVE OFF


OVERDRIVE


Drive (not shown) Drive is activated when the transmission control switch is pressed. • This position allows for all forward gears except overdrive. • O/D OFF lamp is illuminated. • Provides engine braking. • Use when driving conditions cause excessive shifting from O/D to other gears. Examples: city traffic, hilly terrain, heavy loads, trailer towing and when engine braking is required. • To return to O/D (Overdrive), press the transmission control switch. • O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned


The O/D OFF lamp will not be illuminated.


off.


125


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


(Overdrive) position.


(Overdrive), move the gearshift lever into the


downshift to second gear at the appropriate vehicle speed.


2 (Second) This position allows for second gear only. • Provides engine braking. • Use to start-up on slippery roads. • To return to • Selecting 2 (Second) at higher speeds will cause the transmission to 1 (First) • Provides maximum engine braking. • Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever. • Will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; allows for 1 (First) Forced downshifts • Allowed in (Overdrive) or Drive. • Depress the accelerator to the floor. • Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear. If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement • If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but avoid severe brake application, ease the vehicle back onto the pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.


when vehicle reaches slower speeds.


• It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow down gradually before returning to the pavement. You may lose control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.


• It often may be less risky to strike small objects, such as highway


reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide sideways out of control or roll over. Remember, your safety and the safety of others should be your primary concern.


Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a


lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.


126


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow If your vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, it may be rocked out by shifting between forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transmission may occur. Do not rock the vehicle for more than a minute or damage to the transmission and tires may occur, or the engine may overheat.


Understanding the shift positions of the 5–speed automatic transmission (if equipped - diesel engines only)


P (Park) This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning. To put your vehicle in gear: • Start the engine • Depress the brake pedal • Move the gearshift lever into the desired gear To put your vehicle in P (Park): • Come to a complete stop • Move the gearshift lever and securely latch it in P (Park)


Always set the parking brake fully and make sure the gearshift is latched in P (Park). Turn the ignition to the LOCK position and


remove the key whenever you leave your vehicle.


R (Reverse) With the gearshift lever in R (Reverse), the vehicle will move backward. Always come to a complete stop before shifting into and out of R (Reverse). N (Neutral) With the gearshift lever in N (Neutral), the vehicle can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.


127


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


D (Drive) with Overdrive D (Drive) with Overdrive is the normal driving position for the best fuel economy. The overdrive function allows automatic upshifts and downshifts through gears one through five. D (Drive) without Overdrive D (Drive) without Overdrive can be activated by pressing the transmission control switch (TCS) on the end of the gearshift lever. • This position allows for all forward gears except overdrive. • The OFF lamp on the gearshift


OVERDRIVE OFF


lever is illuminated.


OVERDRIVE


• Provides engine braking. • Use when driving conditions cause excessive shifting from O/D to other gears. Examples: city traffic, hilly terrain, heavy loads, trailer towing and when engine braking is required. • To return to O/D (Overdrive), press the transmission control switch. • O/D (Overdrive) is automatically returned each time the key is turned


The OFF lamp on the gearshift lever will not be illuminated.


off.


3 (Third) Transmission operates up to third gear only. Used for improved traction on slippery roads. Selecting 3 (Third) provides additional engine braking. 2 (Second) Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades. 1 (First) • Provides maximum engine braking. • Allows upshifts by moving gearshift lever. • The transmission will not downshift into 1 (First) at high speeds; it will downshift to a lower gear and then shift into 1 (First) when the vehicle reaches slower speeds.


128


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Forced downshifts • Allowed in D (Drive) with Overdrive or D (Drive) without Overdrive. • Depress the accelerator to the floor. • Allows transmission to select an appropriate gear. DRIVING THROUGH WATER If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly especially when the depth is not known. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs (for trucks) or the bottom of the wheel rims (for cars). When driving through water, traction or brake capability may be limited. Also, water may enter your engine’s air intake and severely damage your engine or your vehicle may stall. Driving through deep water where the transmission vent tube is submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause internal transmission damage. Once through the water, always dry the brakes by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as quickly as dry brakes. EMERGENCY MANEUVERS • In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn must be made, remember to avoid “over-driving” your vehicle, i.e., turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid the emergency. Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control, not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are called for. Avoid abrupt steering, acceleration or braking which could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or personal injury. Use all available road surface to return the vehicle to a safe direction of travel.


• In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not


attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.


Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a


lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.


129


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving • If the vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e., from concrete to gravel) there will be a change in the way the vehicle responds to a maneuver (steering, acceleration or braking). Again, avoid these abrupt inputs.


VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle’s weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle’s Safety Certification Label and Tire Label: Base Curb Weight – is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or optional equipment. Vehicle Curb Weight – is the weight of your new vehicle when you picked it up from your dealer plus any aftermarket equipment.


Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight, including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer tongue load or king pin weight is also part of cargo weight. GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle (front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload. GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the driver’s door or B-Pillar. The total load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.


130


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Exceeding the Safety Certification Label axle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle handling or performance,


engine, transmission and/or structural damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.


Note: For trailer towing information refer to Trailer towing found in this chapter or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your dealership.


GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo + passengers. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including all options, equipment, passengers and cargo). The GVWR is shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label located on the driver’s door or B-Pillar. The GVW must never exceed the GVWR.


131


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Exceeding the Safety Certification Label vehicle weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle handling or


performance, engine, transmission and/or structural damage, serious damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.


GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – is the weight of the loaded vehicle (GVW) plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer. GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer – including all cargo and passengers – that the vehicle can handle without risking damage. (Important: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for operation at GVWR, not at GCWR. Separate functional brakes should be used for safe control of towed vehicles and for trailers where the GCW of the towing vehicle plus the trailer exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle. The GCW must never exceed the GCWR. Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight – is the highest possible weight of a fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a vehicle with only mandatory options, no cargo (internal or external), a tongue load of 10–15% (conventional trailer) or king pin weight of 15–25% (fifth wheel trailer), and driver only (150 lbs [68 kg]). Consult your dealership (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your dealership) for more detailed information. Tongue Load or Fifth Wheel King Pin Weight – refers to the amount of the weight that a trailer pushes down on a trailer hitch. Examples: For a 5,000 lbs. (2,268 kg) conventional trailer, multiply 5,000 by 0.10 and 0.15 to obtain a proper tongue load range of 500 to 750 lbs. (227 to 340 kg). For an 11,500 lbs. (5,216 kg) fifth wheel trailer, multiply by 0.15 and 0.25 to obtain a proper king pin load range of 1,725
to 2,875 lbs. (782 to 1,304 kg)


Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the certification label.


132


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities than the originals because they may lower the vehicle’s GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations.


Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.


Special loading instructions for owners of pickup trucks and utility-type vehicles


For important information regarding safe operation of this type of vehicle, see the Preparing to drive your vehicle section in


this chapter.


Loaded vehicles may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping


distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.


Your vehicle can haul more cargo and people than most passenger cars. Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling cargo and people may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.


Calculating the load your vehicle can carry/tow 1. Use the appropriate maximum GCWR chart (in the Trailer towing section in this chapter) for your type of engine and rear axle ratio. 2. Weigh your vehicle without cargo. To obtain correct weights, take your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. 3. Subtract your loaded weight from the maximum GCWR in the chart. This is the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. It must be below the maximum trailer weight shown in the chart.


TRAILER TOWING Your vehicle may tow a class I, II or III trailer, provided the maximum trailer weight is less than or equal to the maximum trailer weight listed for your engine and rear axle ratio on the following charts.


133


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights


Engine


Rear axle ratio


Maximum GCWR - lbs. (kg)


Maximum


Loaded


Trailer Weight


- lbs. (kg)


E-150 Regular Van (6700 GVWR)


Maximum


frontal area of


trailer - ft2


(m2)


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


3.55


3.55


11500
(5216) 12000
(5443)


6400 (2903)


60 (5.52)


6800 (3084)


60 (5.52)


E-150 Regular Van (Crew) (6700 GVWR)


3.55


3.55


11500
(5216) 12000
(5443)


6200 (2812)


60 (5.52)


6600 (2994)


60 (5.52)


E-150 Regular Van (7000 GVWR)


3.55


3.55


11500
(5216) 12000
(5443)


6500 (2948)


60 (5.52)


6900 (3130)


60 (5.52)


E-150 Regular Wagon (7–passenger) (7000 GVWR)


3.55


3.55


11500
(5216) 12000
(5443)


5700 (2585)


60 (5.52)


6200 (2812)


60 (5.52)


E-150 Regular Wagon (8–passenger) (7000 GVWR)


3.55


3.55


11500
(5216) 12000
(5443)


6100 (2767)


60 (5.52)


6500 (2948)


60 (5.52)


E-250 Regular Van (7200 GVWR)


4.6L


3.73


10500
(4763)


5100 (2313)


60 (5.52)


134


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights


Driving


Engine


Rear axle ratio


Maximum GCWR - lbs. (kg)


Maximum


Loaded


Trailer Weight


- lbs. (kg)


.E-250 Regular Van (8600 GVWR)


Maximum


frontal area of


trailer - ft2


(m2)


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


4.10


3.73


11000
(4990) 13000
(5897)


5600 (2540)


60 (5.52)


7500 (3402)


60 (5.52)


E-250 Regular Van (Crew) (8600 GVWR)


4.10


3.73


11000
(4990) 13000
(5897)


5300 (2404)


60 (5.52)


7200 (3266)


60 (5.52)


E-250 Extended Van (7300 GVWR)


4.6L


3.73


10500
(4763)


5000 (2268)


60 (5.52)


E-250 Extended Van (8600 GVWR)


4.6L


5.4L


4.6L


5.4L


5.4L


5.4L


4.10


3.73


11000
(4990) 13000
(5897)


5400 (2449)


60 (5.52)


7300 (3311)


60 (5.52)


E-250 Extended Van (Crew) (8600 GVWR)


4.10


3.73


11000
(4990) 13000
(5897)


5300 (2404)


60 (5.52)


7300 (3311)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Van (9500 GVWR)


3.55


4.10


12000
(5443) 13000
(5897)


6300 (2858)


60 (5.52)


7300 (3311)


60 (5.52)


135


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


Driving


GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights


Rear axle ratio


3.73


4.10


Maximum GCWR - lbs. (kg)


Maximum


Loaded


Trailer Weight


- lbs. (kg)


Maximum


frontal area of


trailer - ft2


(m2)


15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


9200 (4173)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Van (Crew) (9500 GVWR)


3.55


4.10


3.73


4.10


12000
(5443) 13000
(5897) 15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


6100 (2767)


60 (5.52)


7100 (3221)


60 (5.52)


9000 (4082)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Extended Van (9400 GVWR)


3.55


4.10


3.73


4.10


12000
(5443) 13000
(5897) 15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


6200 (2812)


60 (5.52)


7200 (3266)


60 (5.52)


9000 (4082)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Extended Van (Crew) (9250 GVWR)


4.10


3.73


4.10


13000
(5897) 15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


6900 (3130)


60 (5.52)


8800 (3992)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


Engine


6.8L


6.8L


5.4L


5.4L


6.8L


6.8L


5.4L


5.4L


6.8L


6.8L


5.4L


6.8L


6.8L


136


2004 Econoline (eco) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)


GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)/Trailer Weights


Driving


Engine


Rear axle ratio


Maximum GCWR - lbs. (kg)


Maximum


Loaded


Trailer Weight


- lbs. (kg)


Maximum


frontal area of


trailer - ft2


(m2)


E-350 Regular Wagon (7–passenger) (8600 GVWR)


5.4L


3.73


13000
(5897)


6900 (3130)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Wagon (7–passenger) (8700 GVWR)


6.8L


6.8L


3.73


4.10


15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


8700 (3946)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Wagon (8–passenger) (8600 GVWR)


5.4L


3.73


13000
(5897)


6900 (3130)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Wagon (8–passenger) (8700 GVWR)


6.8L


6.8L


3.73


4.10


15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


8800 (3992)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Wagon (12–passenger) (8700 GVWR)


5.4L


3.73


13000
(5897)


6800 (3084)


60 (5.52)


E-350 Regular Wagon (12–passenger) (8700 GVWR)


6.8L


6.8L


3.73


4.10


15000
(6804) 18500
(8391)


8700 (3946)


60 (5.52)


10000 (4536)

Loading...
x