3.3 tensioner replacement

Hey all, can someone give me a step by step instructions on how to replace the tensioner? If possible, picture diagrams would be appreciated. My belt keeps slipping off. I have a 93 Caravan. Thank you in advance.

Getting ready to do one tomorrow (Sunday 4-19-09) I will let you know.

Not fun, the problem is that the retaining bolt is behind the tensioner and you are almost working blind. Try going to AUTOZONE website, registering and then looking at repair info for your car. I just did mine on a '96 3.3 liter and was able to use a ratcheting box end wrench on the nut, but it was not easy and I have the battle scars to prove it.

I used a 15mm swivel on a 10 in extension. Not too bad but I also had to replace the power steering pulley and that was.

I started mine on Saturday but i am gonna finish it today. I had to move my Alternator out of the way so i can gain some leverage to swing the wrench/ratchet.
I will let you guys know how it went. My question is, is this the reason my serpenting belt keeps slipping off?

Easier from the bottom.

My question is, is this the reason my serpenting belt keeps slipping off?

If you look at the pulley on the tensioner and it looks like the belt has been riding more to the outside and there is about 3/16" of rust on the inner part of the pulley where the belt used to ride than yes, replacing the tensioner is a good start.

Agreed, it is a lot easier to do from the bottom!

I started mine on Saturday but i am gonna finish it today. I had to move my Alternator out of the way so i can gain some leverage to swing the wrench/ratchet.
I will let you guys know how it went. My question is, is this the reason my serpenting belt keeps slipping off?


I would put a wrench on the tensioner and pull on it. If you get a lot of resistance then the tensionor is good. If the belt is off it is a good time to feel the other pulleys for wear and run out. I have been lucky, 139k on a 98 3.3 with the original tensionor. When I change the oil I spray lithium grease behind it. Dorman sells a item to keep the belt from slipping off. I have changed 2 pulleys.
Its part # 82570


https://www.dormanproducts.com/cgi-bin/vm91corp30r/quick_result.w?sid=heZbnrtfjhzGEyac009900209261498 911&clt=hwrap1&vtime=71714

I have a 93 plymouth grand voyger se 3.3 I just bought a duralast tensioner assembly it looks like it just threads on instead of having a bolt to undo has anyone done this on my specific model? I looked on autozone for a guide there was no specific info and I have searched this forum with no luck exept this thread..I did not want to start a new thread about this that is why i am asking here here are pics of the new tensioner http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b281/93geometro/8058ad6c.jpghttp://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b281/93geometro/440fb92a.jpg

From under the van just over the power steering pump is the nut for the idler it is 15mm. I used a swivel socket on a extension I had a harder time getting the belt back on. The new tensioner had a lot more spring to it.

The nut is on the other side of where the bolt mounts. The bolt on the tensioner goes through a brace and the nut is on the other side.