If the timing belt breaks on a 1997 Ford Ranger will engine be damaged?

Yes, a broken timing belt on a 1997 Ford Ranger will almost certainly cause significant engine damage. Unlike interference engines, where the valves and pistons collide directly causing catastrophic damage, the 1997 Ford Ranger's engine is an interference engine. When the timing belt breaks, the valves and pistons are no longer synchronized. This leads to bent valves, damaged pistons, and potentially other internal engine damage. The extent of the damage can vary, but a repair will likely be very expensive, potentially exceeding the value of the vehicle.