Here's a *general* overview. This is NOT a complete guide and may not apply perfectly to your specific truck. Always refer to your repair manual.
Safety First:
* Let the engine cool completely before starting any work. Coolant is hot and under pressure when the engine is running.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashing coolant or other debris.
* Use gloves to protect your hands from coolant, which is corrosive.
* Work in a well-ventilated area because coolant contains chemicals.
* Have a drain pan ready to catch the coolant.
* Dispose of used coolant properly. It's hazardous waste.
General Steps (May Vary Depending on Engine):
1. Drain the Cooling System: Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and the engine block (if applicable). Place a drain pan underneath and carefully open the drain plugs to let the coolant drain completely.
2. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal to prevent short circuits.
3. Remove Related Components (Likely): You'll likely need to remove various components to access the water pump. This could include:
* Serpentine Belt: Remove the serpentine belt to free the pulley from the water pump.
* Fan and Fan Shroud: These often need to be removed for better access.
* Pulley(s): The water pump pulley may need to be removed.
* Possibly other hoses: Some hoses may need to be loosened or removed for better access.
4. Remove the Water Pump: This usually involves removing several bolts securing the water pump to the engine block. Be careful not to damage the gasket.
5. Clean the Mounting Surface: Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces on both the engine block and the new water pump to ensure a good seal.
6. Install the New Water Pump: Apply a new gasket (usually included with the new water pump) to the engine block. Carefully install the new water pump, ensuring the gasket is properly seated. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (check your repair manual).
7. Reinstall Components: Carefully re-install all the components you removed earlier (fan, shroud, pulleys, hoses, belt). Ensure everything is properly aligned and secured.
8. Refill the Cooling System: Refill the cooling system with the correct type and amount of coolant (check your owner's manual). Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water unless your manual specifies otherwise.
9. Bleed the Air from the System: Air trapped in the cooling system can cause overheating. Consult your repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure. This often involves opening bleed valves at high points in the system and running the engine briefly.
10. Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections and the water pump for leaks.
11. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.
12. Run the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a while, monitoring the temperature gauge and checking for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Engine Type: The specific procedure varies depending on whether you have a 2.3L, 2.9L, or 4.0L engine. Your repair manual is essential here.
* Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and possibly a serpentine belt tensioner tool.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque values. Overtightening can damage the engine block or the water pump.
This is a simplified overview. Again, a repair manual specific to your 1993 Ford Ranger XLT is absolutely crucial for a successful repair. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing the water pump can lead to serious engine damage.
