Do Ford Rangers Have a Timing Belt or Chain?

The Ford Ranger is a popular midsize pickup truck that has been in production since 1983.
Over the years, the Ranger has been offered with a variety of engine options, including both gasoline and diesel engines.
Depending on the engine type, the Ranger may have either a timing belt or a timing chain.

Timing Belts

Timing belts are made of a reinforced rubber compound and are used to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) in an engine.
Timing belts are typically used in engines with overhead camshafts (OHC), where the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the valves.
Timing belts must be replaced at regular intervals, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, as they can stretch or break over time.

Timing Chains

Timing chains are made of metal and are also used to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) in an engine.
Timing chains are typically used in engines with overhead valves (OHV), where the camshaft is located in the engine block below the valves.
Timing chains are generally more durable than timing belts and do not need to be replaced as often, typically only when they become stretched or worn.

Ford Ranger Engine Options

The Ford Ranger has been offered with a variety of engine options over the years, including both gasoline and diesel engines.
The following is a list of the engine options that have been available in the Ford Ranger, along with the type of timing system used:

• 2.3L Duratec I4 gasoline engine: timing belt
• 2.5L Duratec I4 gasoline engine: timing chain
• 3.0L Duratec V6 gasoline engine: timing chain
• 4.0L Cologne V6 gasoline engine: timing chain
• 2.2L Duratorq I4 diesel engine: timing chain
• 3.2L Duratorq I5 diesel engine: timing chain

Conclusion

Whether a Ford Ranger has a timing belt or a timing chain depends on the engine type.
Rangers with gasoline engines typically have timing chains, while Rangers with diesel engines typically have timing belts.
It is important to consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to determine the type of timing system used in your Ranger and the recommended replacement interval.