SAFETY - General Safety Instructions Before performing any repair, read and understand all of the safety precautions and warnings. The following is a list of general safety precautions that must be followed to provide personal safety. Failure to follow these instructions may cause death or injury. Special safety precautions are included in the procedures when they apply. Keep in mind that even a well maintained vehicle must be operated within the range of its mechanical capabilities and the limits of its load ratings. See the Weight Ratings label on the driver's door edge.
Every new vehicle is designed to conform to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards applicable at the time of manufacture. Even with these safety features, continued safe and reliable operation depends greatly upon regular vehicle maintenance. Follow the maintenance recommendations found in the Preventive Maintenance section. This will help preserve your investment. Make sure your vehicle is in top working condition before heading out on the road, it is the responsible driver's duty to do so. Inspect the vehicle according to the Driver's Check List. Work areas should be dry, well lit, well ventilated, free from clutter, loose tools, parts, ignition sources and hazardous substances.
Wear protective glasses and protective shoes when working. Wear protective gloves when working with hot liquids or surfaces. DO NOT wear loose-fitting or torn clothing. Tie back and/or tuck in long hair. Remove all jewelry when working. Before beginning any repair, disconnect the battery (negative [-] cable) and discharge any capacitors. Put a “DO NOT OPERATE” tag in the operator's compartment or on the controls. Allow the engine to cool before slowly loosening the coolant fill cap to relieve the pressure from the cooling system. 1 ous 30 minutes, be very careful in re- moving the fill cap.
Protect face, hands, and arms against escaping flu- id and steam by covering the cap with a large, thick rag. DO NOT try to re- move it until the surge tank cools down or if you see any steam or coolant es- caping. Always remove the cap very slowly and carefully. Be ready to back off if any steam or coolant begins to escape. Failure to comply may result in death, personal injury, equipment or property damage. Always use wheel chocks or proper jack stands to support the vehicle or vehicle components before performing any service work. DO NOT work on anything that is supported only by lifting jacks or a hoist.
Before resting a vehicle on jack stands, be sure the stands are rated for the load you will be placing on them. Before removing or disconnecting any lines, fittings, or related items, relieve all pressure in the air, oil, fuel, and cooling systems. Remain alert for possible pressure when disconnecting any device from a WARNING Removing the fill cap on a hot engine can cause scalding coolant to spray out and burn you badly. If the engine has been in operation within the previ- Y53-1331 (6/21) 7