Hello, I'm rounding up the tools I need to change the timing belt on my 96 ranger with the 2.3 motor. I have used the search feature here on the forum and can't find what kind of puller I need for the harmonic balancer. Using a mirror, I don't see any threaded holes in it to use the 3 bolt type of puller, what kind of puller do I need? Do I need a special tool to set the timing belt tension? Any help and suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I bought my ranger a few months ago and have been doing everything I can think of to make it run good and last a lot longer, I have changed plugs and wires, rear end, tranny(manual), oil and filter, power steering, and coolant fluids. I also changed rear brake shoes and new drums. I bought it from a neighbor who took good care of it but doesn't recall ever getting the timing belt changed, it has 177K on it and runs good, but I am scared to drive it much with that many miles on the timing belt. Thanks for any help, I really enjoy reading stuff on this forum. Mike

 

Spend the 20 or so bucks on a Haynes manual. It has all kinds of info,specs, and pics.
Worth what it costs.

 

I did buy a Haynes manual and can't find any information about a puller for this application. In the section about timing belt replacement, it says to "remove crankshaft drivebelt pulley and belt guide" with no details on what to remove it with.

 

Did you pull the rad? If you can't see I think t would be a good idea because it will give you tons of room for a puller

 

I haven't done anything yet, I'm just trying to gather everything I need so I won't have to stop and go out and try to find something I need to keep working on it. I ideally will have everything I need to do the job before I start working on it. If it is necessary to remove the radiator, I will, but won't if I don't need to. thanks for the replies, keep them coming!

 

I use a three jaw puller. Loosen the center bolt on the crankshaft about 2-3 full turns.Install the puller and get it reasonably tight , don't try to force the pulley off yet.Give the puller stud a good rap or two with a hammer,as if you're driving the stud into the pulley bolt.Remove the puller and back out the crank blot a few more turns and reinstall the puller. Slowly turn the stud and remove the pulley until it hits the bolt head.By then you can remove the crank stud and slide the pulley off.

 

With that type of puller, and to swing a hammer, I am guessing its necessary to pull the radiator, correct? Thanks Ken

 

Pull the radiator to give you more room and less chance of destroying it.Lay it in the truck bed with a piece of cardboard on each side covering the core. That way ,if you get frustrated and heave a tool back there, it won't get damaged.

 

Good advice, if I throw tools in the bed of the truck, I should be able to find them!

 

dang this is my very first post here back in 06!

https://www.ranger-forums.com/f59/ti...-anyone-24963/

i dk if this is proper way, but this is what a mechanic had told me to do. this was on a 94 2.3 btw

 

2.3 & 2.5 Timing belt removal & installation..