Power Steering Fluid - Ford 1996 Thunderbird Manual

Power Steering Fluid

Check the level of the power steering fluid at
least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall).
Checking and Adding Power Steering
Fluid
3.8L SFI engine
1. Start the engine and let it run until the
power steering fluid reaches normal
operating temperature. The power steering
fluid will be at the right temperature when
the engine coolant temperature gauge in the
instrument cluster is near the center of the
NORMAL operating temperature range.
2. While the engine idles, turn the steering
wheel back and forth several times. Make
sure that the cap assembly is installed at this
time.
3. Turn the engine off.
4. Check the fluid level on the dipstick (which
is highlighted in yellow in your vehicle). The
fluid level should be between the arrows in
the FULL HOT range, which is marked on
the side of the dipstick, opposite the side
marked FULL COLD. Do not add fluid if the
level is within the FULL HOT range.
5. If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid
in small amounts, continuously checking the
level, until you reach the FULL HOT range.
Do not overfill.
6. When you are finished, put the dipstick back
in and make sure that it fits snugly.
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