I'm sure it isn't hard, but I don't want to mess something up. Can someone explain clearly how to get the belt back on? It doesn't work like any tensioner I have used before. I can losen tension with the front bolt or strut bolt, but those don't allow you to regain the tension. I could do like I did to get it off, but that might cause damage. I just tilted the supercharger to remove the belt. I want to put it back on the right way. I know someone might flame, but honestly it doesn't work with the normal tensioner tools. Is this really a straight forward thing that I'm missing?

 

Install a tight fitting 15 mm open end wrench to the lug on the rear of the tensioner, and carefully push down (and slightly towards the back of the engine compartment) in order to slowly compress the drive belt tensioner, then slip the belt over the pulley.
HTH
WopOnTour

 

That pictures helped a lot. A guy stopped by and helped and had it figured out, but the picture is perfect. I have never had one that works like that before. I would have never figured that out on my own without a picture like that. The wrench kept slipping, but we managed to get the car running again now.

 

can you adjust the tension on them? i did a swap and i put the belt on and as soon as you rev it up the belt jumps off. itll sit there and idle fine but it seems like as soon as its under a load the tensioner goes down like it doesnt have enough pressure

 

You need a new tensioner, these are automatic tensioners with a built in spring. There is no way to adjust it.

 

Alright thanks!

 

I don't think we should recommend this way unless its absolutely necessary. If not done right the wrench could slip and someone could hurt themselves. The proper way is with a T50 torx bit (IIRC) on the top strut bolt under the pulley. Don't put too much tension though, or the bolt will loosen. If it does just tighten it and try again.