2.3L ('83-'97) Fan removal

[97ranger22bronco]

does anyone have any tricks to getting the fan removed from a '97 2.3? I was trying to get a socket on the bolts but the angle is really weird and I couldn't get a grip. It's 10 MM based on YT videos?

 

[scotts90ranger]

Yes, a wrench, just a standard old combination wrench, don't remember if a ratcheting wrench fits or not, I don't have to deal with any rust so it's never been an issue, once they're loosened a little I get my arm in there and can just back the bolts out. Oh, and leave the belt on when getting the bolts loose, it'll keep the pulley from spinning, if you don't do that you might need another wrench to put on the opposite bolt, once you get them broke loose take the belt off to get the bolts out.

 

[tinman_72]

I hold a large flathead screwdriver between the shaft and one of the bolts that is still tight to keep the pulley from spinning. The belt alone usually does not hold tight enough.

 

[superj]

yup. a screwdriver like above when removing fan bolts. sometimes another wrench on an opposite bolt but that normally breaks that other bolt loose and i still need the screwdriver for the last bolt or two.