Changing timming belt

[94ranger20]

my belt on my 94 sohc 2.3 crapped out on me. I was rained out when trying to tear down when right before the rain i noticed that what the crank pulley mounts to might need to come off. I've read my haynes manual til i want to burn it. It says nothing. simply wondering whether I need to pull it off and if so is there a special tool/ puller needed to do so. I think it might be a balancer.

 

[Kayak Mud Puppy]

I changed the timing belt on my 93 Ranger twice. The first time I pulled the crank pulley
and managed to kill the crank shaft position sensor. It was an expensive mistake. The second time I changed it I did not pull the crank pulley off. It was a very tight fit to get the belt on the crank pulley because of the lower cover, but I got it. Just remember to verify your timing alignment marks after you release the tensioner. I had to do it about five times before I could get the marks lined up. Also consider changing your water pump while you are in there. Just take your time and don't rush it. I wish you success.