ok so about a month and a half ago i bought a 1989 ford ranger XLT single cab with the 2.9 L V6 and within the past few weeks the belts have been squeeking horribly so i check under the hood and the belt that is connected to the alternator and engine seemed very loose. how do i tighten the belt, and if it doesnt work how do i replace it. also there is a weird low pitched whine when i turn the steering wheel so i checked the power steering fluid and it was low so i added some and it stil makes the noise just not as loud as before so im wondering does the power steering belt need to be tightened also and would it be the same as the alternator belt

Just try tightening the belts, is that doesn't work then remove and replace. You can get the belts off with the fan on it takes a little time but it's easier than removing the fan and having to fight the water pump pully getting the fan back on

i would but i dont know how to tighten them and also what tools will i need

also how would i remove the belts to replace them if i had too

helps with a friend keeping the accessory tight, but manageable by yourself. The brackets have grooves cut out in them so you can tighten, just look at it. Tools, either you have what you need or you need to buy it, but basic tools should cover this one.

there are 2 bolts on the alternator. 1 under it acting as a hinge the other on a bracket with a slot in it. to tighten the belt loosen the 2 bolts 1 under 1 over. use a prybar and put tention on the alternater pushing towards the passanger side. having an extra person holding the pribar helps. when the belt is tight, no play, tighten the top bolt (the one in the slide)until tight. trying to keep some pressure on the alternater tighten the bottom one. there shouldnt be more then a little play. the power steering is simler. if the belts are dry and cracked replace them.. better safe then sorry. to take off the alternater belt u may need to pull the bottom and top bolts out and tilt the unit to get the belt around. good luck. and a hanes manual can help with some stuff

ya a few weeks after i posted this i got a chiltons repair manual and alot of shit in there is very vague

I have a 1988 Ranger.
Had a belt squell so I tightened the alternator belt....but the AC belt is still loose.

Do I actually have to undo 4 bolts to tighten the AC/power steering belt?

(Why did they put the bolts behind the pulleys on the front?)
grrrrr....Ford!
>:c (

Yup, crow bars and sledge hammers have a place in your mechanics toolbox.

The power steering actually has an adjuster, not sure about the AC but it should too (mine ain't got one).