FORD 1998 Explorer - Manual (Page 149)

JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames,
sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or
vehicle damage.
Do not push start your vehicle. You could damage the catalytic
converter.
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which burns skin, eyes, and
clothing.
Preparing your vehicle
Also see the label on the battery.
1. Use only a 12–volt supply to start your vehicle. If you connect your
battery to a 24–volt power supply you can damage your starter, ignition
system and other electrical components.
2. Do not disconnect the battery of the disabled vehicle as this could
damage the vehicle’s electrical system.
3. Park the booster vehicle close to the hood of the disabled vehicle
making sure they do not touch. Set the parking brake on both vehicles
and stay clear of the engine cooling fan and other moving parts.
4. Check all battery terminals and remove any excessive corrosion before
you attach the battery cables.
5. Turn the heater fan on in both vehicles to protect any electrical
surges. Turn all other accessories off.
Connecting the jumper cables
1. Position the vehicles so that they do not touch one another.
2. Switch off the engine. Switch off any unnecessary electrical
equipment.
3. Connect the positive (+) terminal of the discharged battery (1) to the
positive (+) terminal of the booster battery (2).
4. Connect one end of the second lead to the negative (-) terminal of the
booster battery (3) and the other end to a metal part of the engine to be
started (4), not to the negative (-) terminal of the discharged battery.
Roadside emergencies
149