Timing belt and tensioner.

[katsi]

Here is a question, how do you remove the timing belt tensioner? Since I have the whole front end pulled off, I figured I would replace the timing belt and tensioner because everything is so accessable right now. But, the manual was a little iffy in the steps. Do I just pry out the spring from the bracket hole or do I loosten the bolts to the spring? The manual just said to remove the tensioner spring. I couldn't really see how loosting any bolts would help take off any pressure from the spring. Anyway, the belt does look fine and it does not have any cracks or frays in it but, I don't know the history on it. Also, when I take off the belt, will the timing retard? I don't intend to move anything but I don't know if it will retard a bit when slack is introduced to the timing belt.

[rlux4]

There are two bolts to loosen. After you've loosened them use a pry bar (a crow bar works, but is a tad thick) to move the bearing and get slack in the belt. Hold the pry bar in that position until you've tightedned up the bolts again to hold it in this slackened position. Now the belt will slip off the pulleys. I've done mine without removing the crankshaft pulley, and it is a tight fit with a little working of the belt by the tight spot between the bottom pulleys. Others say it's necessary to remove the crankshaft pulley. I don't know, maybe I didn't have to remove mine because I'm fortunate enough to have a 2 litre in an 82.
Ron