Electronic Compass: Other Ford Econoline E150

Compass Accuracy

Luggage racks and magnetic mounted devices like antennas should not be located on the front third of the vehicle roof. Placing these devices near the compass will cause inaccurate directional readings. If these devices must be used, accuracy may be improved by recalibrating the compass while the devices are installed on the vehicle.

Driving near power lines, or driving in the area of large iron or steel structures can temporarily change the compass' heading. If the compass remains inaccurate after driving near such objects, demagnetize the vehicle, refer to VEHICLE DEMAGNETIZING and recalibrate the compass.

Most geographic areas (zones) have a magnetic north compass point that varies slightly from the northerly direction on maps. This variation is four degrees between the adjacent zones and will become noticeable as the vehicle crosses multiple zones. A correct zone setting eliminates the error. Refer to COMPASS ZONE ADJUSTMENT .

Temperature, Outside Air

The thermometer sensor is attached to the radiator frame behind the grille. The temperature can be displayed in Celsius or Fahrenheit by pressing the SELECT switch.

If the outside temperature falls below 3.3°C (38°F), the display will alternate from "ICE" to the outside temperature at a two second rate for one minute.

The outside air temperature reading can be affected by engine heat when the vehicle is idling or has been off for less than two hours. The compass and thermometer will limit the increase of the displayed temperature to one degree per minute at very low speeds or immediately after the ignition is turned on. After two minutes at a sustained speed of at least 53 km/h (33 mph), effects of engine heat are minimal and the compass will display the current outside temperature reading. Temperature decreases are always updated immediately.

If the outside air temperature sensor is short or open circuited, then the display will show 60°C (140°F) or -40°C (-40°F) respectively in place of temperature.

Refer to the appropriate SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS article for schematic and connector information.

SPECIAL TOOL(S)

Scheme 1

Scheme 2

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the system.
2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical and electrical damage. VISUAL INSPECTION CHART
3. If inspection reveals an obvious concern(s) that can be readily identified, repair or install a new component as required.
4. If the fault is not visually evident, proceed to the «SYMPTOM CHART»(ref-210199-S42408710842005121400000) .

Scheme 3

Pinpoint Tests

Note. Always demagnetize a vehicle, set the zone and calibrate before replacing an inaccurate compass.

Note. After installing a new compass, always set the zone and calibrate.

Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 7

Scheme 8

1. Determine the zone in which the vehicle is located.
2. Press and hold the SELECT button until VAR appears on the display. Release the SELECT button.
3. Momentarily press the SELECT button to increment the zone by one. Set the zone according to the map.

Vehicle Demagnetizing

Note. The demagnetizing process requires the use of a demagnetizing coil commonly used by television repair technicians to demagnetize television tubes.

Note. To demagnetize, use a constant circular motion over the vehicle roof. Do not turn off the demagnetizer while sweeping the vehicle roof to prevent remagnetizing ferrous materials contained in the vehicle.

Note. During the demagnetizing process, make sure the phenolic surface of the tool (the side opposite the handle) is closest to the vehicle surface.

1. Demagnetize the front third of the vehicle roof. Turn on the demagnetizer at least 1 m (3 ft) away from the vehicle. Holding the demagnetizer no more than 2.5 cm (1 in) from the vehicle roof and starting on the passenger side, demagnetize the front third of the vehicle roof closest to the windshield using a constant circular motion. Keep the circle radius within 30 cm (12 in) while sweeping across the entire surface of the vehicle roof closest to the windshield. Continue the circular motion four times. After the fourth pass and without stopping, move the demagnetizer at least 1 m (3 ft) away from the vehicle. Turn the demagnetizer off.
2. Carry out the Compass Zone Adjustment procedure. For additional information, refer to «COMPASS ZONE ADJUSTMENT»(ref-210199-S14326450002005121400000) .
3. Carry out the Compass Calibration Adjustment procedure. For additional information, refer to «COMPASS CALIBRATION»(ref-210199-S30627848602005121400000) .

Scheme 9

1. Remove the overhead console.
2. Remove the compass display. Disconnect the electrical connector. Depress the tab and remove the electrical connector. Remove the screws.
3. To install, reverse the removal procedure.