Things You'll Need:
- Breaker bar and socket
- Jack stands
- Blocks
- Allen wrench
- Ratchet wrench
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Step 1
Wait until the engine is cool, then check to see if the engine's number one piston (at the front of the engine) is at its highest point (known as the top dead center position). If not, turn the crankshaft with a socket and breaker bar to reach that position, inserting the socket at the balancer hub bolt.
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Step 2
Disconnect the negative battery cable and raise the vehicle's front end on jack stands. Block the rear wheels to help prevent the vehicle from rolling.
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Step 3
Remove any engine parts that block access to the timing belt and tensioner. The exact parts can differ depending on the vehicle you are working on. Some examples can include the radiator, coolant reservoir, power steering pump and/or accessory drive belts.
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Step 4
Remove the cover for the timing belt if the vehicle has one. Rotate the tensioner with an Allen wrench to loosen and relieve the tension on the belt; the amount and direction you will turn can vary, but it is often around 70 to 80 degrees clockwise. Slip the belt off the tensioner and its pulleys.
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Step 5
Disconnect the bolts mounting the tensioner. There can be one bolt in the center or multiple bolts around the circumference. Remove the tensioner from the engine block.
