Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Belt tensioner

[sdd3]

I would like to change the belt but don't know how to release the tensioner. I don't see a bolt or something to put a wrench on to pull it back. I'm not a big fan of just using a big prybar, if know what I mean.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, Thank you.

 

[WyattEarp]

there is a square hole in the tensionor i can't remember if its a 3/8 or 1/2 inch size but thats what you have to do in order to release the tension to remove the belt, someone else chime in here as for some reason im having brain farts as to tell him exactly what im talking about. . Its similar to the oil pan plug same idea but with the tensionor its a complete hole its on the bottom side of the tensionor the only way i could release it was by using a breaker bar from underneath the front of the truck.

 

[jrobinson2]

Theres a square hole in the front of the tensioner for a 3/8 drive ratchet or breaker bar.

Jared

beat me to it while i was typing

 

[rrausch]

It is 3/8 square drive. I just changed my tension pulley 3 days ago, and a long breaker bar is very useful to do this with. I use a 1/2 breaker bar, with an adaptor on the end to get it down to 3/8. It's about 18 inches long, and I am always grateful for the leverage.

 

[sdd3]

Thank you everyone for your help. I found the 3/8 hole in front of the tensioner.

I used a long handled ratchet with a 1/2 to 3/8 reducer and it worked great. I was done in about 15 minutes. Thanks again for all your help.

 

[rrausch]

Is this site great or what!!