Before you begin:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts. Use jack stands to securely support the vehicle after lifting it. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools and Materials: You'll need a jack, jack stands, various wrenches (likely metric), sockets, a ratchet, a breaker bar (possibly), a pry bar, penetrating oil (like PB Blaster), new motor mount(s), and possibly a torque wrench. A shop manual specific to your vehicle is highly recommended.
* Identify the Faulty Mount: Visually inspect all three mounts. A bad mount will often show signs of cracking, excessive wear, or sagging.
General Steps (This will vary slightly depending on the mount):
1. Access the Mount: This is often the most difficult part. You'll likely need to remove various components to get to the mount. This might include:
* Exhaust System Components: Parts of the exhaust system might need to be loosened or removed to gain access.
* Wiring Harnesses and Vacuum Lines: Carefully disconnect any wiring harnesses or vacuum lines that are in the way. Take pictures or make notes to ensure correct reassembly.
* Other Components: Depending on the specific mount, other components like air intake components or even parts of the steering linkage might need to be moved or removed.
2. Loosen the Mount Bolts: Use penetrating oil liberally on the bolts several hours or overnight before attempting to remove them. These bolts often seize due to rust and corrosion. A breaker bar might be necessary to break them loose.
3. Support the Engine: Before completely removing the bolts, securely support the engine with a jack placed under the oil pan or another suitable strong point. This prevents the engine from dropping unexpectedly.
4. Remove the Mount: Once the bolts are loose, carefully remove the mount. This often involves some maneuvering and might require a pry bar to help separate the mount from the engine and frame.
5. Install the New Mount: Carefully align the new mount and bolt it in place, tightening the bolts in a star pattern (opposite bolts alternately) to ensure even pressure.
6. Reconnect Components: Reinstall all components that were removed to access the mount, ensuring everything is connected correctly.
7. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
8. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque values (found in your repair manual). This is crucial for safety and proper function.
9. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle to ensure the repair was successful. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this level of vehicle repair, it's best to take your Ranger to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installing a motor mount can lead to serious damage.
* Repair Manual: A shop manual specific to your 2002 Ford Ranger is invaluable. It provides detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other crucial information.
* Parts: Ensure you purchase the correct motor mount for your specific Ranger model and engine.
This is a generalized overview. Referencing a repair manual specific to your vehicle is absolutely crucial for a successful repair. This information is for guidance only and does not replace professional advice.
