I bought a 91 ranger for $600...so far it's needed ~$1,350 of mods, which I almost expect since I got it so cheap.

So on the first day of my commute, the belt started to make a squealing noise, and everyone around here mentioned a gatorback belt, which I intend to buy.

Is it something I can replace myself with regular hand tools?

 

Yes

 

yea i did the belt on my stang a few weeks ago took me all of about 3 minutes just follow the diagram on top by the fan cover

 

Probably a 1/2" ratchet is all you need to install the belt, and some muscle. Possibly a 3/8"? I havent looked on our trucks. Maybe even a 14-15MM wrench. Dunno what kind it is. Anyway with either a wrench or a ratchet you should beable to push the tensioner and do it urself in a minute or two, very very simple.

 

also might be one of the idler or belt tentionor pullies going out but thats easy to fix too. i cant remeber that have a surpentien belt or multiple V-belts?

 

Gatorbacks = kickass!

 

100%

 

My 88 Ranger had three V-belts on it's 2.9. I would Imagin your 91 does also. It is still simple but it takes a hair longer. If you can read a Chilton's you can do it. Real simple.

~HJ

 

changed my serpentine belt on saturday with a dayco belt from advance auto.

took about 5 minutes.

easier then i expected.

 

Gates belts are the best.I use them on everything even are race car at 1300hp. they hold up good.

 

^ x2