Serpentine Belt Tensioner - How do you release tension?

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BiancaVG

New Member

Dec 27, 2009

2

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1

Charleston, SC

Apr 30, 2012

#1

• Apr 30, 2012

• #1

I am replacing the serpentine belt on my Mustang and see what appears to be the belt tensioner but can't see you you can release the tension to install a new alternator. Most tensioners have a place where you can place a socket to release tension while putting on the belt but I can't seem to find it. The larger torx bolt in the center is not moving so I have to assume it is just to bolt the whole tensioner to the car. Help is much appreciated.

 

wmburns

SN Certified Technician

Aug 14, 2009

5,892

514

204

Houston Texas

Apr 30, 2012

#2

• Apr 30, 2012

• #2

You don't see a square hole like the kind used in a socket ratcht near the end? Normally the square end of a socket wrench is just the tool for the job.

How about posting pictures?

 

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BiancaVG

New Member

Dec 27, 2009

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1

Charleston, SC

Apr 30, 2012

#3

• Apr 30, 2012

• #3

wmburns said:

You don't see a square hole like the kind used in a socket ratcht near the end? Normally the square end of a socket wrench is just the tool for the job.

How about posting pictures?

Click to expand...

Here you go. Sorry for the delay. The center bolt is a large torx bolt. It seems to hold the whole thing on but doesn't appear to be what releases the tension (unless it's crazy tight because I can't move it).

 

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RdPonyCv

Founding Member

Jan 26, 2002

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Illinois

Apr 30, 2012

#4

• Apr 30, 2012

• #4

I use a 15mm socket on the hex bolt right on the pulley at the end of the arm. Just lift in a clockwise direction. If the bolt moves a little that's ok because it is a left hand thread, it just means the bolt is getting tighter.

 

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RdPonyCv

Founding Member

Jan 26, 2002

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Illinois

Apr 30, 2012

#5

• Apr 30, 2012

• #5

oops, I meant to say counter-clockwise

 

buickgs_15

Member

Jan 6, 2010

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May 23, 2012

#6

• May 23, 2012

• #6

if yours is the same as mine then you should be able to use a 1/2 in or 3/8 in (i don't remember which ) rachet or breaker bar in the small square hole(shown in the pics above). use the rachet to pry the ension to loosen the belt. becareful when prying though because if the rachet is not far enough in the hole it will round it

 

Killian Korth

Member

Apr 2, 2012

108

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Nebraska

May 24, 2012

#7

• May 24, 2012

• #7

buickgs_15 said:

if yours is the same as mine then you should be able to use a 1/2 in or 3/8 in (i don't remember which ) rachet or breaker bar in the small square hole(shown in the pics above). use the rachet to pry the ension to loosen the belt. becareful when prying though because if the rachet is not far enough in the hole it will round it

Click to expand...

^What I was going to say, that's what that little square hole there is for. That looks 3/8 in. to me but I could be wrong.