Alternator belt tension and fan clutch... HELP!

[GJGoltz]

Hey guys, I'm an idiot when it comes to cars but...

I have a 1988 Ford Ranger 2.9l 6 cylinder 4x4. I just replaced the battery and alternator, but I'm not sure what the belt tension should be.

Also, I'm going to replace the fan clutch, and I need to know if I have to drain the radiator first, or if I can do it without that hassle. THANKS for the help guys!!

 

[RonD]

Belt tension can be tested with a tensioning tool, but..........most don't bother with that.
Adjust belt tension so you can not spin alternator pulley, then start engine and rev it up, if no belt squeal then it's OK, also turn steering wheel to see if power steering belt squeals.
If you have a squeal then add a bit more tension to that belt.

No, you don't have to drain the coolant to change fan clutch, but look on the top of the rad support for a label that tells you what direction to turn the nut for the fan clutch, some are reverse thread depending on the rotation of the fan pulley.
There is also a tool set for about $30-$45 that has the "holder wrench" and "nut wrench" to remove fan clutch nut, some auto parts shops loan these, also you can rent them.

 

[GJGoltz]

Thank you!

Hmmm... I wonder if the power steering belt squeal thing might be my problem-- I had assumed the I had a leak in my power steering reservoir or something, because after I fill it, it goes away, but it comes back far sooner then it should. I'm apt to believe it's still the leak, though.

Yeah, I checked Auto Zone, they loan out the wrench set.

Thanks again for the help!

 

[snake]

You will very likely have to pull the fan shroud with the fan clutch at the same time to get the fan out- unless you have a two piece shroud. In that case remove the top half so the fan can be removed. May have to pull the upper hose away from the radiator also

 

[Andy D]

old school vee belts. If you can push in more than 1/2 or 3/4 inch deflection, then the belt is loose. On a 25 yr old car, the belt could be worn out.

 

[RonD]

Yes, about the fan shroud.

And DO NOT FORGET to put it back in with the new fan clutch, it is a PITA but, I was 1/2 way through tightening the new fan clutch nut when I thought this was easier than taking it out..........................yes it was without the shroud in the way, lol.