General Information
Important: For service issues and questions, call 1-800-FTL-HELP and follow the prompts for gasoline engines. Representatives will be able to answer questions and diagnose mechanical issues, as well as provide detailed service repair information.
Note: Before starting the engine, read Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 in this manual for detailed information on how to read the instruments and operate the controls.
Before operating the vehicle, perform the engine pretrip inspection and daily maintenance checks in Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 of this manual.
Notice: If a vehicle does not start on the first attempt, make sure that the engine has completely stopped rotating before reapplying the starter switch. Failure to do so can cause the pinion to release and re-engage, which could cause ring gear and starter pinion damage.
Important: Ring gear and starter pinion damage caused by improper starting procedures is not warrantable.
Notice: Never attempt to start any electronic engine using ether or any other starting fluid. Serious engine damage could result.
- Set the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. See figure for the four-position
ignition switch and figure for the three-position ignition switch.
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Accessory (optional)
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Off
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On
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Start
Fig. 1, Four-Position Ignition Switch
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- Make sure that the transmission shift control is in Neutral (N) or Park (P), and that the park brake is set.
- Turn the ignition switch to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key.
- Bring the engine up to operating speed gradually as it warms up and develops stable oil pressure.
- If the engine does not start after 5 to 10 seconds, especially in very cold weather below 0°F (–18°C), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the throttle pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in the START position for up to 15 seconds
- If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, repeat the process. This will clear the excess gasoline from the engine.
- Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all of the moving parts.
Important: Do not depress the throttle pedal while starting the engine.
Notice: Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds at a time. Wait two minutes after each try to allow the starter to cool. Failure to do so could cause starter damage.
Important: When the engine is started, it takes a short time to build up a lubricating oil film between the shafts and bearings, and between the pistons and cylinder walls. The oil pressure gauge indicates any drop in lubricating oil pressure within 15 seconds of engine start-up.
Notice: Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds at a time. Wait two minutes after each try to allow the starter to cool. Failure to do so could cause starter damage.