2020 Ford Ranger Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length & Rib Count: 1755mm (69.1 inches), 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Ford JB3Z-8620-A
• Aftermarket Belt Part Numbers: Gates K060691, Dayco 5060690, Continental 4060691
• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: Ford JB3Z-6B209-A
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Ford GB3Z-8678-A

Belt Routing

The 2.3L EcoBoost engine in the 2020 Ford Ranger uses a single serpentine belt to drive all its accessories. Before you remove the old belt, it is highly recommended to take a clear photograph of the belt's path to ensure you can route the new one correctly.

The belt follows this path:

1. Starts at the main crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine.
2. Wraps up and around the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Goes down and around the idler pulley.
4. Travels up to the alternator pulley.
5. Moves over to the power steering pump pulley.
6. Goes down to the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, loops around the automatic tensioner pulley, which maintains the correct belt tension.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2020 Ranger is straightforward with the right tool. You will need a serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" breaker bar.

1. Safety First: Make sure the engine is cool and the truck is in park with the emergency brake engaged.
2. Locate the Tensioner: The automatic tensioner is the pulley with a 3/8" square hole in its body. It is typically the last pulley in the belt path before the belt returns to the crank.
3. Release Tension: Insert the 3/8" drive of your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square hole on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner arm to release the tension on the belt. You don't need to unbolt the tensioner itself.
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner in the released position, carefully slip the belt off one of the smooth, non-grooved pulleys, like the idler or water pump.
5. Route New Belt: Following the path you photographed earlier, carefully route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving one of the easily accessible smooth pulleys for last.
6. Finalize Installation: With the belt routed, once again rotate the tensioner arm, slip the belt over the final pulley, and then slowly release the tensioner, allowing it to apply pressure to the new belt. Double-check that the belt is correctly seated in the grooves of all ribbed pulleys.

Replacement Interval

Ford recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at regular service intervals. While there isn't a strict mileage-based replacement schedule, most technicians recommend replacing the serpentine belt as a preventative measure every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. If the vehicle is operated in harsh conditions (extreme heat, dust), it should be inspected and possibly replaced more frequently.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

A worn belt or a failing tensioner can cause significant engine issues. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a worn, glazed, or misaligned belt, especially noticeable on startup or when the A/C is turned on.
• Visible Wear: Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, missing ribs, or a shiny, glazed appearance.
• Tensioner Pulley Noise: A grinding or rumbling noise coming from the tensioner indicates that its internal bearing is failing.
• Fluttering or Vibrating Belt: If you see the belt vibrating excessively while the engine is running, the tensioner spring is likely weak and can no longer maintain adequate tension.
• Accessory Malfunctions: Since the belt drives multiple components, you might notice dimming headlights (alternator), difficulty steering (power steering), or engine overheating (water pump) if the belt slips or breaks.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's best to have the system inspected and the worn components replaced.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.