1993 Ford Ranger Change the Alternator

Dim lights, dead batteries or an overloaded charging system are common indicators of poor alternator performance which means it will need to be rebuilt or replaced. The 1993 Ford Ranger and its engine compartment is compact and easy to work around, making it an ideal subject for the do-it-yourself auto enthusiast. A new alternator, rebuilt alternator, or rebuild kit can be ordered from your local automotive supply store. A used alternator can be purchased at the auto recyclers at a fraction of the price. Most used parts come with limited warranties. Check with your local suppliers and their policies.

Tools Used

Tools
Gloves
Socket set with extensions
Pliers

Change the Alternator

Removal

• Ensure ignition is off and vehicle is in park (in gear if manual) and parking brake is on. Remove the black negative cable from the battery. Batteries and cables are marked for polarity. Batteries are marked with a minus sign (-) for negative and a plus sign (+) for positive. On the 1993 Ranger, the corresponding wires will be color coded. Black is negative, red is positive. Cable connectors often include the minus (-) and plus (+) symbols.

• Remove the air cleaner tube to get clear access to the alternator by loosening the clamps at each end, one at the air cleaner housing and the other at the throttle body. Disconnect any attached vacuum lines and electrical connections and cover the throttle body inlet to prevent unwanted dust and debris.

• Disconnect the electrical connector from the alternator. It should easily unplug by squeezing the plastic spring tab on the connector and pulling. If it is difficult, squeeze, pull and wiggle the connector gently using pliers. Tuck the wiring safely out of the way.

• Unhook the drive belt from the alternator pulley. It is a single serpentine belt that drives all the pulleys and is held tight with an automatic tensioner. To loosen, rotate the tensioner with a 3/8-inch drive ratchet (counterclockwise on 2.3-liter and 4-liter engines or clockwise on 3-liter engines). You will see the belt slacken.

• Loosen the three bolts that hold the alternator to the mounting bracket. They are easy to access on the 1993 Ranger. Two are on the fender side of the alternator, the third towards the engine. Once loosened, you can remove them by hand while holding onto the alternator with the other. Remove the alternator.

Reinstallation

• Install the new or rebuilt alternator in reverse order of the removal. Position the alternator back on the mount and fasten the three bolts with one hand while holding the alternator in place with the other. Once seated, you can tighten the bolts with the wrench.

• Rotate the tensioner with a 3/8-inch drive ratchet (counterclockwise on 2.3-liter and 4-liter engines) or (clockwise on 3-liter engines) so you will have enough slack to reposition the belt on the alternator pulley. Make sure the belt is properly in place on the power steering unit, waterpump, and air conditioning compressor if equipped.

• Reconnect the electrical connector to the alternator.

• Uncover the throttle body inlet and reconnect the air tube and corresponding electrical and vacuum connections. Check all clamps, vacuum hoses and connections for tightness.

• Reconnect the black negative battery cable to the negative terminal on the battery.

Tips & Warnings

• Inspect your serpentine belt for wear and cracks and replace if necessary.

• Tension pulley should also be inspected for worn bearings and smooth operation.

• If engine has been recently running, let it cool before attempting any repairs to avoid burning yourself on hot components.

• Always be aware of loose hair, jewelery and clothing when working near engines and moving parts.