User manual FORD ESCORT RS COSWORTH

[. . . ] Breaking-in your vehicle Your new vehicle goes through an adjustment or breaking-in period during the first 1, 600 km (1, 000 miles) of driving. During this period: · change your vehicle's speed often as you drive. Do not drive at one speed for a long time. · use only the type of engine oil Ford recommends. [. . . ] Remember, the GVW is not a limit or a specification. · GVWR (Gross vehicle weight rating) -- maximum total weight of the base vehicle, passengers, optional equipment, and cargo. The GVWR is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's door pillar. 101 Driving · GAWR (Gross axle weight rating) -- carrying capacity for each axle system (front and rear). This amount is specific to each vehicle and is listed on the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's door pillar. Payload = Gross vehicle weight rating - Base curb weight To obtain correct weights, try taking your vehicle to a shipping company or an inspection station for trucks. Do not use replacement tires with lower weight capacities than the originals because they may lower the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limitations. (Replacement tires with a higher weight limit than the originals do not increase the GVWR and GAWR limitations. ) If the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety Compliance Certification Label is exceeded, your vehicle may be damaged or you may lose control and cause injury. Trailer towing Your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer up to 454 kg (1000 lb) gross trailer weight with a maximum tongue load of 45 kg (100 lb). The trailer should have 18. 6 m2 (20 ft2) or less frontal area. Do not exceed the maximum loads stated on the Safety Compliance Certification Label. · shift to a lower gear while towing up or down steep hills. · anticipate stops and brake gradually. Servicing while towing If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle requires more frequent service than a vehicle not used for towing. Refer to the Service Guide for more information. 105 Driving Towing behind a recreational vehicle (RV) Do not tow your vehicle behind another vehicle, such as an RV, unless front wheel dollies are used. Luggage rack (if equipped) Load luggage as far back as it will safely go on the rack without causing the vehicle to exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross axle weight rating (GAWR). FUEL CONSUMPTION Fuel economy can be improved by avoiding: · lack of regular, scheduled maintenance · excessive speed · rapid acceleration · driving with the brake pedal depressed · sudden stops · extended engine idling · use of speed control in hilly terrain · extended use of the air conditioner, defroster, rear window defroster and other accessories · underinflated tires · heavy loads · aftermarket add-ons such as bike, ski or luggage racks, bug deflectors, etc. 106 Roadside emergencies USING THE HAZARD SWITCH Use the hazard flashers to warn traffic of vehicle problems: · Slide the hazard switch to the right to activate the hazard flashers. · Slide the hazard switch to the left to deactivate the continuously blinking flashers. RESETTING THE FUEL PUMP SHUT-OFF SWITCH The fuel pump shut-off switch stops the fuel pump when the vehicle has been involved in a collision or major jolt. If the vehicle does not start, it is possible that the fuel pump shut-off switch needs to be reset. If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to start your vehicle. [. . . ] Cleaning the exterior lamps Do not use dry paper towels, chemical solvents, or abrasive cleaners to clean the lamps; these products may cause scratches or crack the lamps. Cleaning the engine A clean engine is more efficient than a dirty one because a buildup of grease and dirt acts as an insulator and keeps the engine warmer than normal. Follow these guidelines to clean your engine: · Take care when using a power washer to clean the engine. The high pressure fluid could penetrate sealed parts and cause damage. [. . . ]