ford windstar tensioner

im having trouble replacing my serpentine belt for a '99 ford windstar 3.8 engine, what do i need to access the tensioner, and how do i go about it, i changed my alternator, and now things have gotten REALLY interesting, please help.

Hi, I replied to another thread with the following:

the hardest part is taking the tension off of the serpentine belt. I have a '96 with the 3.8L. The belt tensioner is somewhat hidden toward the back of the engine compartment. Autozone and places like it sell a serpentine belt tool which is simply a long flat steel handle with a 3/8" drive socket head on it. The problem is that on my van there is not enough room between the wheelwell and the bolt head on the tensioner pulley. So I use the open end of a combination wrench on the bolt and I slide a 1 1/2" pipe over the box end to increase its length for leverage. It is then pretty simple to relieve the tension on the belt so that it will slide off of the idler. You should have a belt diagram under the hood. If not, draw yourself a little map before you take the belt off. To replace the belt I usually thread it onto all pulleys accept the idler -it is smooth and easy to slide the belt onto. Then using the wrench/pipe or whatever you come up with, take the tension off of the tesioner enough to slide the belt over the indler. I have had mine on and off enough that I can do it quickly. Not a big deal, just a little awkward dealing with the tensioner.


Also another writer said he was able to put enough tension on the belt manually to slip the belt over the alternator. I think he threads the whole belt except the alternator, then while holding tension so the belt won't slip, he pulls on the belt to relieve th e tension and slips it over the alternator pulley. I have not tried it.

Island Guy. I have a 99 3.8 also. I have replaced both the tensioner and idler. The tensioner takes a 10mm. Because of the close proximity to the side, you may only be able to get a wrench on it, which means; 10mm - small wrench, you get the idea. Not much leveridge. Anyway just grab onto the bolt in the middle of the pulley and turn ccw like loosening. I find it easier to push up. This will raise the tensioner to get the belt off. To make it a little easier and if someone is around, just have them lift the belt off the alternator pulley when you lift the tensioner. There is a flat piece of metal on the front side that will lock in if you can raise the tensioner high enough making replacing the belt easier. It is difficult though. I think they actually make a tool for it. New tensioners come in this configuration. Or you can try like the other post on here and just give it a good yank at the alternator just watch you fingers. I imagine if you get them caught between the belt and pulley and your not a cussing guy, you will be.
By the way, You will want the van up on safety stands as you will be doing this from underneath. You will be moving the van a bit so please use safety stands or ramps.