ASAP! Which way to move the belt tensioner when removing!

[EDDIE138301]

Okay experts! need quick reply for this 2000 oldsmobile belt tensioner removal.
I took my rachet and pulled upwards. It moves a little but not enough to get the belt off. What am I doing wrong? I pull the other direction, nothing. Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[maxwedge]

Possible the tensioner is binding, sometimes I really have to give it a yank.

[EDDIE138301]

Originally Posted by maxwedge

Possible the tensioner is binding, sometimes I really have to give it a yank.

So I am moving in the right direction? I am pulling up on it. If I was going the other direction, I would not get any movement out of it at all, correct?

[oldblu65]

Originally Posted by EDDIE138301

Okay experts! need quick reply for this 2000 oldsmobile belt tensioner removal.
I took my ratchet and pulled upwards. It moves a little but not enough to get the belt off. What am I doing wrong? I pull the other direction, nothing. Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are using just the ratchet ? The idler assembly can sometimes be quite difficult to pull unless you use some sort of extension on the ratchet giving you more leverage . A pipe ( that fits over the ratchet handle ) will help immensely but be very careful that it doesn't slip off and hurt you or damage your vehicle . The additional leverage will be immediately evident ! It's a good idea to have someone help you so one can pull on the ratchet and hold the tension while the other removes ( or installs ) the belt . Good luck !

[DeltaP]

I'd say rotating it away from the belt would be the right diriection! They make a tool for that. It gives the proper leverage.