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Home >> Ford >> 2003 >> Excursion 7.3 F, RWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Engine Controls - System & Component Testing - 7.3L Diesel >> Engine Performance Diagnostic Procedures >> Test 3: Check Engine Oil Level >> Recommended Procedure
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Recommended Procedure

  1. Check engine oil level while vehicle is on level ground. If there is little or no oil in crankcase, injectors will not operate. If oil level on dipstick is overfull, engine may have been incorrectly serviced, or oil is diluted with fuel or engine coolant and is filling crankcase. Usually, if a substantial amount of fuel is in the engine oil, it will have a fuel odor. Inspect color of engine oil. A milky White oil indicates possible coolant contamination and will have an ethylene glycol odor.
  2. Check service records for correct oil type and viscosity for the vehicle operating temperature. Single weight or 15W-40 oil is not recommended for cold ambient temperatures. 10W-30 oil is recommended for cold ambient temperatures. Oil that has had extended drain intervals will have increased viscosity (become thicker) and will make engine cranking more difficult and starting less reliable at temperatures below freezing.
  3. The level in oil reservoir should also be checked. Remove inspection plug in top of reservoir and check oil level. See Figure. If oil level is within 1" (25.4 mm) of fill hole, level is okay. If oil level is not within 1" (25.4 mm) of fill hole, top off fluid. Attempt to start vehicle. If vehicle starts, a drainback condition may be present. A reservoir that drains back after engine has not been operated for a period of time can cause a hard start and stall condition. Filling reservoir will allow system to prime faster in order to facilitate starting. Determine cause of drainback condition and repair as necessary.
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