I need to replace the Belt Tensioner on a 1998 Cavalier (92,XXX). I have replaced a Belt Tensioner on my 98 S10 and the bolt is about 6 inches long, not a problem on the rear-wheel drive. However, on the Cavalier..the bolt appears that it will hit the side wall "Frame" of the car before clearing the block...is there a trick to this...or do you have to break the motor mount and move the engine to get access. I thought about drilling thru the "frame" but thats pretty thick...

Try using a "breaker bar", it's kinda like a socket wrench, but with a bit thinner profile... and it doesn't ratchet.

also... Better than a diagram, a photo

Check out this thread:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=309192

note: this guy's "purple" circle looks more light a light blue, maybe a lavender at most.

It's a much shorter bolt on the Cavalier. Remove the bolt from the block, and it will come out. It stays in the hole in the tensioner and they come out/go in together.

Try using a "breaker bar", it's kinda like a socket wrench, but with a bit thinner profile... and it doesn't ratchet.

also... Better than a diagram, a photo

Check out this thread:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=309192

note: this guy's "purple" circle looks more light a light blue, maybe a lavender at most.

Psssst..... then tensioner isn't circled. ...fail.