Engine distributors MSG 425 Service manual

EDI 1020010
November, 2020
MSG
425
OPERATOR HANDBOOK
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
GASOLINE (EFI) &
NATURAL GAS (NG) ENGINES
Powertrain Assemblies & Components
Provided By Ford Component Sales

1

2
FORD MSG-425 ENGINES
GASOLINE (EFI) LIQUEFIED
PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
NATURAL GAS (NG)
Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the
express permission in writing from
Engine Distributors, Inc. (EDI)
EDI policy is one of continuous improvement and while every effort is made to
ensure that this publication is up to date and correct in all respects, the right to
change prices, specifications and equipment at any time without notice is reserved.
Accordingly this publication is not to be regarded as a final description of any
individual engine.

3
CONTENTS
HEALTH & SAFETY ............................................................................................. 6
General Guidelines: ...................................................................................... 6
Important Safety Notice................................................................................. 6
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings .......................................................................7
FORWARD ............................................................................................................... 8
ENGINE IDENTIFICATION........................................................................................8
U.S.A. Engine Identification Decal ..................................................................8
Federal Emissions Warranty Statement.......................................................... 9
California Emission Control Warranty Statement............................................ 9
What Is Covered? ......................................................................................... 10
PARTS AND SERVICE........................................................................................... 12
SERVICE LITERATURE.......................................................................................... 12
BEFORE OPERATING THE ENGINE .................................................................... 13
OPERATING CONTROLS........................................................................................13
Ignition or Isolation Switch .......................................................................... 13
Safety Switch (where fitted) ........................................................................ 14
Power Take-off (where fitted)...................................................................... 14
Throttle Control (where fitted) ....................................................................... 14
INSTRUMENTS ...................................................................................................... 15
Ammeter (Where Fitted)................................................................................ 15
Battery Condition Indicator (Where Fitted).................................................. ..15
Tachometer (Where Fitted) .......................................................................... 15
Hourmeter (Where Fitted) .............................................................................15
Oil Pressure Gauge (Where Fitted)............................................................. ..15
Temperature Gauge (Where Fitted).............................................................. 16
Malfunction Indicator Light (Where Fitted) ....................................................16
Charge Indicator Light (Where Fitted)........................................................... 16
Ignition or Isolation Switch ............................................................................ 16
Fuel Select Switch (Where Fitted)................................................................. 16

4
CONTENTS
STARTING THE ENGINE......................................................................................... 16
Initial Start-up ................................................................................................ 16
To Start From cold ......................................................................................... 17
STOPPING THE ENGINE ....................................................................................... 18
Normal Conditions...........................................................................................18
Abnormal Conditions.......................................................................................18
RUNNING-IN PROCEDURE ....................................................................................18
FUEL RECOMMENDATION..................................................................................... 19
Fuel Quality ................................................................................................... 19
Alcohol Gasoline Blends (Gasohol) ............................................................... 19
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................... 21
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES................................................... 22
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS ............................................... 23
Recommended Lubricants ............................................................................ 23
Used Engine Oils .......................................................................................... 24
Change Engine Oil ........................................................................................ 25
Check Engine Oil Level............................................................................... 25
Renew Engine Oil Filter .............................................................................. 25
Gasoline Fuel System - EFI ........................................................................ 25
Fuel Filter - EFI ........................................................................................... 26
Ignition System - DIS .................................................................................. 26
Renew Spark Plugs..................................................................................... 26
Electronic Actuator ...................................................................................... 26
Check Condition of Ancillary Drive Belts..................................................... 27
Check Engine Coolant Level....................................................................... 27
Renew Air Cleaner Element........................................................................ 28
Inspect PCV Valve......................................................................................... 28

5
CONTENTS
GENERAL MAINTENANCE INFORMATION .......................................................... 29
Cooling System ............................................................................................. 29
Draining, Flushing and Filling the Cooling System…..................................... 31
Engine Lubrication System ........................................................................... 31
Electrical System............................................................................................ 32
Generator ...................................................................................................... 32
Storage........................................................................................................... 33
ENGINE SYSTEM CHECK........................................................................................34
SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................................. 37
General Specifications ................................................................................ 37
Fuel System ................................................................................................ 36
Lubrication System......................................................................................... 37
Cooling System ..............................................................................................38
Drive Belts................................................................................................... 38
Electrical System......................................................................................... 38
Ignition System............................................................................................... 38
TIGHTENING TORQUES ........................................................................................ 38
CONVERSION TABLE ............................................................................................ 39

6
HEALTH & SAFETY
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING HEALTH AND SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
SHOULD BE CAREFULLY OBSERVED.
Carrying out certain operations and handling some substances can be dangerous or
harmful to the operator if the correct safety precautions are not observed. Some
such precautions are recommended at the appropriate points in this book.
While it is important that these recommended safety precautions are observed, care
near machinery is always necessary, and no list can be exhaustive. ALWAYS BE
ON YOUR GUARD!
General Guidelines:
The following recommendations are for general guidance:
1. Always wear correctly fitting protective clothing which should be laundered regularly.
Loose or baggy clothing can be extremely dangerous when working on running engines
or machinery. Clothing which becomes impregnated with oil or other substances can
constitute a health hazard due to prolonged contact with the skin even through
underclothing.
2. So far as practicable, work on or close to engines or machinery only when they are
stopped. If this is not practicable, remember to keep tools, test equipment and all parts
of the body well away from the moving parts of the engine or equipment—fans, drive
belts and pulleys are particularly dangerous. The electric cooling fan used on some
installations is actuated automatically when the coolant reaches a specified temperature.
For this reason, care should be taken to ensure that the ignition/isolating switch is OFF
when working in the vicinity of the fan as an increase in coolant temperature may cause
the fan suddenly to operate.
3. Avoid contact with exhaust pipes, exhaust manifolds and silencers when an engine is,
or has recently been running; these can be very hot and can cause severe burns.
4. Many liquids used in engines or vehicles are harmful if taken internally or splashed
into the eyes. In the event of accidentally swallowing gasoline (petrol), oil, diesel fuel,
antifreeze, battery acid etc., DO NOT ENCOURAGE VOMITING AND OBTAIN
QUALIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.
Wear protective goggles when handling liquids which are harmful to the eyes; these
include ammonia and battery acid. If any of these substances are splashed in the
eyes, wash out thoroughly with clean water and OBTAIN QUALIFIED MEDICAL
ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY.
Important Safety Notice
Appropriate service methods and proper repair procedures are essential for the
safe, reliable operation of all industrial engines as well as the personal safety of the
individual doing the work. This operator handbook provides general directions for
accomplishing service and repair work with tested, effective techniques. Following
them will help assure reliability.
There are numerous variations in procedures, techniques, tools and parts for
servicing equipment, as well as in the skill of the individual doing the work. This

7
manual cannot possibly anticipate all such variations and provide advice or
cautions as to each. Accordingly, anyone who departs from the instructions
provided in this Manual must first establish that neither personal safety nor
equipment integrity are compromised by the choice of methods, tools or parts.
Notes, Cautions, and Warnings
As you read through the procedures, you will come across NOTES, CAUTIONS,
and WARNINGS. Each one is there for a specific purpose. NOTES gives you added
information that will help you to complete a particular procedure. CAUTIONS are
given to prevent you from making an error that could damage the equipment.
WARNINGS remind you to be especially careful in those areas where carelessness
can cause personal injury. The following list contains some general WARNINGS
that you should follow when you work on the equipment.
GENERAL WARNINGS:
•Always wear safety glasses for eye protection.
•Use safety stands whenever a procedure requires you to be under the equipment.
•Be sure that the ignition switch is always in the OFF position, unless otherwise
required by the procedure.
•Set the parking brake (if equipped) when working on the equipment. If you have
an automatic transmission, set it in PARK REVERSE (engine off) or NEUTRAL
(engine on) unless instructed otherwise for a specific operation. Place wood
blocks (4”x 4” or larger) to the front and rear surfaces of the tires to provide further
restraint from inadvertent equipment movement.
•Operate the engine only in a well ventilated area to avoid the danger of carbon
monoxide.
•Keep yourself and your clothing away from moving parts when the engine is
running, especially the fan belts.
•To prevent serious burns, avoid contact with hot metal parts such as the radiator,
exhaust manifold, tail pipe, catalytic converter and muffler.
•Do not smoke while working on the equipment.
•To reduce the risk of injury, always remove rings, watches, loose hanging jewelry,
and loose clothing before beginning to work on the equipment. Tie long hair
securely behind the head.
•Keep hands and other objects clear of the radiator fan blades. Electric cooling
fans can start to operate at any time by an increase in underhood temperatures,
even though the ignition is in the OFF position. Therefore, care should be taken to
ensure that the electric cooling fan is completely disconnected when working
under the hood.

8
FORWARD
This book contains operating and maintenance instructions for the engine(s) listed
on the title page.
The life of your engine unit and the delivery of the high performance built into it will
depend on the care it receives throughout its life. It is the operator’s responsibility to
ensure that the engine is correctly operated and that the maintenance operations
outlined in this book are carried out regularly after the specified hours of operation
have been reached. We consider it to be in your interests to enlist the aid of an
authorized EDI Distributor, not only when repairs are required but also for regular
maintenance. Distributors are listed on www.EDI-DIST.com.
Regular maintenance will result in minimal operating costs.
Engines manufactured by Ford Motor Company are available through EDI
Distributors. When in need of parts or service, contact your local EDI Authorized
Distributor.
Where the terms “Right” or “Left” occur in this publication, they refer to the
respective sides of the engine when viewed from the rear or flywheel end.
Pistons and valves are numbered from the front or timing cover end of the engine
commencing at No. 1.
You may find that your engine assembly includes optional equipment not
specifically covered in the following text. Nevertheless, the maintenance
procedures outlined in this book still apply to your engine
ENGINE IDENTIFICATION
It is important that you have as complete identification of the engine as possible in
order to provide the correct replacement parts. New engines being shipped include
a standard parts listing describing the parts which does not tell the owner the part
number. It remains a distributor function to identify the part number.
The key to identifying the engine is the identification decal mounted on the engine
rocker cover. That decal provides not only the engine serial number, but also the
exact model or type, options and S.O. (Special Order). The combination of that data
permits you to isolate the precise engine, build level and customer so you can
determine the correct replacement parts.
U.S.A. Engine Identification Decal
An identification Decal is affixed to the valve cover of the engine. The decal contains
the engine serial number which identifies this unit from all others. Use all numbers
when seeking information or ordering replacement parts for this engine.
MSG425
MSG425

9
Your Warranty Rights and Obligations
The U.S. EPA and Engine Distributors, Inc. are pleased to explain the emission
control system warranty on your new 2017 model year emission certified engine (or
brand equipment). New off-road large spark-ignition (LSI) engines must be designed,
built and equipped to meet stringent Federal and State anti-smog standards. Engine
Distributors, Inc. warrants that the emission control system on your engine for the
periods of time listed below provided there has been no abuse, neglect or improper
maintenance of your engine.
Your emission control system may include parts such as the carburetor, regulator or
fuel-injection system, ignition system, engine computer unit (ECM), catalytic
converter and air induction system. Also included may be sensors, hoses, belts,
connectors and other emission-related assemblies.
Where a warrantable condition exists, Engine Distributors, Inc will repair your LSI
engine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts, and labor.
Manufacturer’s Warranty Coverage
The new 2017 model year off-road large spark-ignition engines are warranted for
three years or 2500 hours of service, whichever occurs first from the date the
equipment is delivered to the first retail purchaser or when the equipment is first
placed in service. If any emission-related part on the engine is defective, the part will
be repaired or replaced by an authorized Engine Distributors, Inc. dealer. This is
your General Emissions Warranty.
For five years or 3500 hours of service (whichever occurs first) if any emission-
related part specially noted with coverage for five years or 3500 hours is defective,
the part will be repaired or replaced by and authorized Engine Distributors, Inc.
dealer. This is your High Priced Parts Emission Warranty.
Owner’s Warranty Responsibilities
As the off-road LSI engine owner, you are responsible for the performance of the
required maintenance listed in your owner’s manual. Engine Distributors, Inc.
recommends that you retain all records covering maintenance on your off-road
engine, but Engine Distributors, Inc. cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of
receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance.
As the off-road large spark-ignition engine owner, you should however be aware that
Engine Distributors, Inc. may deny you warranty coverage if your off-road large
spark-ignition engine or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper
maintenance or unapproved modifications.

10
Depending on the model of engine you have purchased, your engine may be
designed to operate on LPG, Gasoline, and/or Natural Gas fuels. Use of any other
fuel may result in your engine no longer operating in compliance with applicable
emissions requirements.
You are responsible for initiating the warranty process. Engine Distributors
suggests that you present your off-road large spark-ignition engine to an Engine
Distributors, Inc. dealer as soon as a problem exists. The warranty repairs should
be completed by the dealer as expeditiously as possible.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you
should contact Engine Distributors, Inc. at [phone].
What is Covered
Below is a list of the systems that affect emissions on your engine. Emission
control components on these systems are covered by the emissions warranties as
applicable.
If failure of one of the components listed below results in failure of another part,
both will be covered by this warranty. For detailed information concerning specific
components covered by these emission control systems warranties, ask your
dealer.
General Emissions Warranty Parts List –3 years or 2,500 hours, whichever comes first
•Fuel injection system.
oAir/fuel ratio feedback and control system.
oCarburetor system (internal parts and/or pressure regulator or fuel
mixer or injection system).
•Air Induction System
oAir intake system.
•Catalyst or Thermal Reactor System
•Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System.
oPCV Valve.
oOil Filler Cap.
•Ignition Control System
oIgnition module(s).
oSpark Plugs
•Miscellaneous items Used in Above Systems o Vacuum, temperature, and
time sensitive valves and switches.
oSensors used for electronic controls.
oHoses, belts, connectors, assemblies, clamps, fittings, tubing, sealing
gaskets or devices, and mounting hardware.
oPulleys, belts and idlers.
oVaporizer ( For LPG model of BEDIB06.8WSG only)

11
High Priced Emissions Warranty Parts List –5 years or 3,500 hours, whichever comes first:
•Electronic Throttle: (2.5MSG, 6.8WSG, 6.8EN0, 6.8EP0)
•Throttle Body (1.6L only)
•ECM: (All Families)
•Pressure Regulator: (1.6L and 6.8L)
•CARB/MIX: (2.5MSG, 6.8EP0, 6.8EN0)
•Intake Manifold: (2.5L and 6.8L Only)
•Exhaust Manifold: (All Families)
•Catalyst: (1.6TS2, 2.5MSG, 6.8WSG)

12
PARTS AND SERVICE
Replacement parts can be obtained through your local EDI Distributors listed on
www.EDI-DIST.com. They also may be found in the yellow pages under “Engines”
or contact EDI at: 1-800-220-2700.
On new engines received it is the customer’s responsibility to report any missing parts
to EDI within 30 days of receiving the engine.
EDI Distributors are equipped to perform major and minor repairs. They are
anxious to see that all of your maintenance and service needs are quickly and
courteously completed.
SERVICE LITERATURE
A service manual can be purchased from your EDI distributor. This publication will
provide the necessary servicing and overhaul information for your engine.
•MSG425 SERVICE MANUAL EDI 1020050
•MSG425 PART LIST EDI 1020040
•GCP Diagnostic Manual 1080030

13
BEFORE OPERATING THE ENGINE
1. Before operating a new engine it should be thoroughly inspected to ensure that
during transit and installation it has not suffered damage likely to affect its
subsequent operation. Controls and instruments should be studied carefully in
order that their functions are thoroughly understood.
2. Check that the radiator (where applicable) is full and top off as necessary -- Refer
to “Cooling System” on page 29 for recommended coolant mixtures.
3. In the case of marine/industrial engines, ensure that there is coolant in the
degas/expansion tank (where applicable).
CAUTION: Under no circumstances may the engine be started without liquid
in the cooling system.
4. Check the engine oil level and top up or fill as necessary -- Refer to “Check
Engine Oil Level” on page 25. For the correct type and grade of oil -- Refer to
“Recommended Lubricants” on page 23.
5. Ensure that the battery is fully charged and, if necessary, top up with distilled
water.
NOTE: Ensure that ALL wiring ground connections are properly made to a clean
point on the chassis/frame.
6. The engine must be started in accordance with the starting instructions --
Refer to “STARTING THE ENGINE” on page 16.
3. Run - This switch position connects the auxiliary circuits as
described previously, the alternator is given initial excitation via the
battery, and the ECU is powered on.
OPERATING CONTROLS
Ignition or Isolation Switch
An ignition or isolation switch is usually fitted which connects the engine starter
motor and other electrical equipment to the battery. The switch can be moved to
any of the four positions shown by rotating the key. These positions are:
1. Auxiliary Circuits - When moved to this position the auxiliary electrical
equipment such as radios and heater fans, can be operated without also
connecting the starting circuit with the battery.
2. Off - When set to this position, the switch disconnects the auxiliary electrical
equipment and the starting circuit from the battery. The key can be removed
from the switch when it is in this position; this will help to prevent
unauthorized operation of the engine.

14
4. Start - In this position, the starter solenoid is energized and the starter motor
cranks the engine. The switch, when released, automatically returns to the
RUN position.
NOTE: With safety shut-down incorporated, oil pressure below 7 psi and/or coolant
temperature goes above 235° F, will shut-down ignition system. Corrective action
must be taken and key recycled to restart.
When moving the handle to engage the clutch and pick up the load, do so in a
smooth manner. Moving the clutch handle too slowly will cause slippage and wear,
while moving it too fast will cause quick engagement and possible damage to the
power take-off, engine or driven equipment. The normal force required to engage
the clutch is 55 lbf (245 N) for the over-centre type and 25 lbf (110 N) for the spring
loaded type.
A final fine speed adjustment is obtained by turning the throttle control
counterclockwise to increase engine speed or clockwise to decrease engine
speed.
The throttle control adjusts engine speed. Initial engine speed adjustment is
obtained by pressing the throttle control release button while pulling the throttle
knob out to increase the engine speed or pushing it in to decrease the engine
speed.
Throttle Control (where fitted)
Safety Switch (where fitted)
A low oil pressure/high water temperature safety switch may be fitted. This
automatically shuts off the ignition when the oil pressure drops below a pre-set
value, or when the water temperature rises above a pre-set value.
Power Take-off (where fitted)
The power take-off control handle allows engagement and disengagement of the
power take-off clutch. Moving the lever towards the engine disengages the clutch
and moving the lever away from the engine engages the clutch unless otherwise
stated.

15
INSTRUMENTS
Your Engine Distributors, Inc. (EDI) Powered Equipment will have been fitted with
instruments selected by the manufacturer. The types of instruments most likely to
be encountered are detailed here. A typical instrument panel is shown below.
Ammeter (Where Fitted)
This instrument registers the charging current which is being passed to the battery
from the alternator. It also registers a discharge equivalent to the amount of current
being used by the electrical equipment when the alternator is not charging.
Battery Condition Indicator (Where Fitted)
This is sometimes fitted instead of an ammeter and measures the battery voltage
thus indicating the state of charge of the battery.
Tachometer (Where Fitted)
The tachometer indicates the actual engine running speed in crankshaft
revolutions per minute. Standard output from the ECU is 2 pulses per rev.
Hourmeter (Where Fitted)
This instrument records the number of hours of operation which the engine has
completed at the rated rpm. It is frequently combined with the tachometer and is
used to determine when an engine service operation is required. If no hourmeter is
fitted, a log should be kept.
Oil Pressure Gauge (Where Fitted)
The oil pressure gauge registers the lubricating system pressure in bar (kgf/cm2or
Ibf/in2) and should be frequently observed to ensure that the system is functioning
correctly.

16
Temperature Gauge (Where Fitted)
The temperature gauge enables a close check to be kept on the coolant
temperatures.
Malfunction Indicator Light (Where Fitted)
Used on all industrial engines. This light will illuminate whenever there is an engine
malfunction such as low oil pressure, high engine temperature, fuel injection system
fault. The engine can be programmed to shut down in the event of a malfunction.
Charge Indicator Light (Where Fitted)
If an alternator is fitted to your engine, a charge indicator light may also be fitted.
The light will glow when the isolating switch is in the RUN position with the engine
stationary and will therefore serve as a reminder either to turn the isolating switch to
the OFF position or to start the engine. Once the engine has started, the charge
indicator light should cease glowing.
Ignition or Isolation Switch
-- Refer to “Ignition or Isolation Switch” on page 13.
Fuel Select Switch (Where Fitted)
This switch is incorporated for use with dual fuels. Switch must point to selection of
fuel being used.
STARTING THE ENGINE
WARNING: ALL INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES GIVE OFF VARIOUS
FUMES AND GASES WHILE RUNNING. DO NOT START OR RUN THE ENGINE
IN A CLOSED OR POORLY VENTILATED BUILDING WHERE THE EXHAUST
GASES CAN ACCUMULATE. AVOID BREATHING THESE GASES AS THEY
MAY CONTAIN POISONOUS CARBON MONOXIDE WHICH CAN ENDANGER
YOUR HEALTH OR LIFE IF INHALED STEADILY FOR EVEN A FEW MINUTES.
Initial Start-up
On initial start-up follow the daily regular maintenance schedule illustration -- Refer
to “RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES” on page 22.

17
To Start From cold
1. Where possible, disconnect the driven equipment, eg, fully depress the clutch
where a manual transmission is fitted.
If your unit is equipped with the engine warning light system, always turn the
ignition switch to the ON position to make sure that each warning light is
operating before starting engine.
2. Switch on the ignition and operate the starter motor until the engine
fires.
3. Set the throttle to give a fast idle speed until normal operating temperature is
reached (where fitted).
NOTE: For EFI Governor application there is no throttle cable. Turn key to crank to
start engine. When engine starts release key to run position. The GCP will adjust
speed for cold start and altitude automatically.
CAUTION: If the engine stalls or falters in starting, wait 3-4 seconds before re-
engaging starter. This will prevent possible damage to the starter or engine.
The starter should not operate for periods longer than 30 seconds at a time.
An interval of at least two minutes should be observed between such
cranking periods to protect the starter from overheating.

18
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Normal Conditions
Following normal operating conditions, lower the engine speed to idle, disengage
the clutch, and then turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. If the engine has
been running under high power, let it run at fast idle speed a few minutes to cool the
engine down.
Abnormal Conditions
Under abnormally overheated conditions, the engine may continue to run after the
ignition switch is turned off. If this case is ever encountered, turn on the ignition
switch immediately and allow the engine to idle until it has cooled enough to stop. If
the engine is overheated due to loss of coolant, it is best to stop the engine
immediately, if necessary by applying the load. Add engine oil if necessary, then
after the engine has returned to a normal temperature, add coolant slowly until the
radiator is full.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY WHEN CHECKING A HOT
ENGINE. COVER THE RADIATOR CAP IN A THICK CLOTH AND TURN IT
SLOWLY COUNTERCLOCKWISE TO THE FIRST STOP. AFTER THE
PRESSURE HAS BEEN COMPLETELY RELEASED, PRESS THE CAP
DOWNWARD AND FINISH REMOVING THE CAP.
The above instructions also apply to engines that stop due to operation of the low oil
pressure/high water temperature safety switch. However, if the engine stops due to
low oil pressure, do not restart until the cause has been determined and corrected --
Refer to “Recommended Lubricants” on page 23.
RUNNING-IN PROCEDURE
A new or reconditioned engine must not be run at high speeds or on full load for the
first 25 hours. The load and speed may be increased to a maximum over this
period. After the first 50 hours running, carry out the maintenance operations listed -
- Refer to “RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES” on page 22.
Check the instruments frequently and keep the coolant and oil filled to their
recommended levels.

19
FUEL RECOMMENDATION
This engine is designed to operate on dry fuel such as LPG Grade HD5 or NG
(1050 BTU/ft.3).
CAUTION: Use of commercial and non-commercial fuels rated lower than the
grades specified above may cause persistent, heavy spark knock, which can
lead to engine damage. If your engine knocks heavily, or if you hear contin-
uous spark knock while maintaining constant operating speeds, consult your
distributor or another qualified technician.
Fuel Quality
Using a high quality gasoline will help maintain the power, fuel economy and
emissions performance of your engine. A properly formulated gasoline will be
comprised of well refined hydrocarbons and chemical additives and will perform
the following functions:
•Minimize varnish, lacquer, and other induction system deposits.
•Prevent gum formation or other deterioration during storage.
•Protect fuel tank and other fuel system components from corrosion or
degradation.
•Provide the correct seasonally and geographically adjusted volatility. This will
provide easy starting in the winter and avoid vapor lock in the summer.
•Avoid fuel system icing.
CAUTION: If not properly formulated with appropriate cosolvents and corro-
sion inhibitors, such blends may cause performance problems or damage
emissions and fuel system materials. Discontinue use if performance prob-
lems occur. To avoid jeopardizing the engine warranty and incurring unnec-
essary repair cost, do not use blends containing more than 10% ethanol by
volume or 5% methanol by volume, or blends that do not contain cosolvents
and corrosion inhibitors. Do not use such fuels unless they are unleaded.
In addition, the fuel will be free of water, debris, and other impurities.
We also recommend that the fuel supply be kept fresh; when the equipment is in
storage (especially in hot weather), the fuel tank should be kept at least 3/4 full.
If you anticipate storage of your engine in excess of two months, consult your
distributor or other qualified technician. Also refer to the information on storage in
the “Maintenance Instructions” section of this manual.
Alcohol Gasoline Blends (Gasohol)
Gasohol is a mixture of gasoline and ethanol or methanol.
Ethanol (C8H16) is an alcohol based fuel. There are basically two ways to produce
ethanol. One way is the fermentative method. This method is based on the
fermentation of ethanol from corn, sugar cane, cellulose, and other alternative crops.
The other way is the catalytic hydrolysis of ethylene, a petroleum product, is the
primary synthetic method. Compared to gasoline the energy content of ethanol is
66%. Ford engines should operate satisfactory on gasohol blends using unleaded
gasoline and containing no more than 10% ethanol by volume. Cosolvents and
corrosion inhibitors must also be added. The blend must also have an octane (anti-
knock) index of 87 or 89, reference to engine specification section.