shawn_f

I have a 96 ford ranger 3.0L w/air. I have a book Haynes. It says the "tension is set by an automatic tensioner. Manual adjustment is not required." "To replace a serpentine belt, rotate the tensioner CCW for 2.3L and 4.0L. CW for 3.0L."
All I see is a pully (like) and a bolt in middle. I found a picture here: of the belt layout Ford Ranger Belt Tensioner . They if I loosen the bolt the tensioner will come out!
What am I missing?

I also see pictures of square hole and you use a 3/8 ratchet to loosen and tighten. But all I see is the bolt holding the pully in.
What am I missing?

I ended up loosening the bolts on the alternator and it just pop-ed out.
But I know I will have to do something else to install the new one.
Gezzz, Back in the day: I'd lossen up the alt, replace the belt, pry the alt up and tighten.

I am older, find myself broke. So I am forced to do the labor. My how cars have changed

I applaud your patience

jwko

The tensioner (see red arrows below) will twist around. Put a wrench on the pulley and release tension.

shawn_f

WOW! What a great description. Ok so I just put a wrench to it. It loosens up. THen the other to tighten. Lordy, I give it a shot.
Much thanks... I guess I don't understand the principle. But I'm good at following directions!

shawn_f

JWKO,
Oh man. It was so easy! I could push down on the wrench, reach over and just slip the belt on the alternator! Thank you so much!

Who would have thought : an automatic belt tensioner!