Extended Idling - Engine Overheat or High Idle Speed

83ford4 Article No. 83-25-12


ENGINE OVERHEAT OR HIGH IDLE SPEED (5.0L CFI)


FORD 1983 FORD, T-BIRD WITH 5.0L C.F.I.

LINCOLN-MERCURY 1983 GRAND MARQUIS, COUGAR, CONTINENTAL, TOWN CAR WITH 5.0L C.F.I.

Extended idle periods may result in excessive engine temperatures and high curb idle speeds. (Above specification) During long periods of high idle (A/C on) the idle air dump feature of the thermactor system may not operate, resulting in excessive system temperatures.

To preclude this concern, the curb idle speed must be maintained at 550 RPM as stated on the Vehicle Emission Decal. Further, the starting and operating section of
the Owners Guide states:

"CAUTION - Avoid extended or unnecessary idling. Extended idling of the engine (ten minutes or more), particularly at "high" engine speeds, could produce excessive system temperatures that can damage your vehicle."

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: None
WARRANTY STATUS: "INFORMATION ONLY"