1999 Prizm needs a new Alternator, But the tensioner...

[rloomis482]

Hello all,
Need some advice on what is the best way to relive the belt tensioner as the previous owner or whom ever broke the tab off where the book shows the wrench attaches.

I need to replace the alternator ASAP!
Battery's not going to hold out much longer!

I thought about compressing the spring shaft with a clamp, but there really isn't a secure point to place it.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you again.

[DeltaP]

If you're gonna replace it along with the belt and alternator cut the belt. (they might be ready for replacement anyway).

[rloomis482]

Sorry about the delay on the post, was out of the game with an old injury back to haunt me.

I really didn't want to spend the money on a new tensioner, so I figured a way to collapse the tensioner spring with a "C" Clamp using a couple of old 12point sockets to get flats to clamp to.

Not exactly the proper way I’m sure but it did work.

Thank you for the advice and now off to a new problem... (Electrical, oh boy!).