I need some type of step by step instructions on how to remove this belt tensioner without removing any of the intake components i.e. Upper plenum, gaskets, and manifold... I just got the leak fixed by an ase technician and i would hate to go behind him and take all that apart just to swap the belt tensioner.... Is there any simple way to remove this belt tensioner??? I already removed the alternator.. How many bolts must i remove to get this thing off????

Well, coolant flows through the tensioner assembly, so it'* a bit tricky. That'* all I can tell you.

... that didnt help me at all ... i know that because that lil elbow piece is connected to it from the manifold... i just wanna know how do you get it out without takin apart the fuel line wit the injectors on it, the plenum, and the entire manifold... i dont feel like doin all that

I find it really easy.

Disconnect your battery
Pull the battery cable and connector off the alt.
Remove alt by the three bolts on the front and one on the rear (pic for ref on bottom bolt)


Then after you drain about 1/2-3/4 of a gallon of coolant you are ready to remove the tensioner/alt bracket by pulling the three bolts. One is not visible near the back of the motor. (Pic for ref, your tensioner is nearly the same)


Nothing tricky at all. 5-6 bolts and wiggle it nicely. There is a plastic coolant elbow going into the LIM. There is another metal elbow (part of the tensioner) going into the timing cover. If you pry hard you can crack the timing cover. Wiggling will get it..time and patience will be the winner.

yea i got it off but i didnt drain the coolant and as soon as i got it off coolant went everywhere.....

Give it a rinse cycle when you put it back together. It'* not something the rest of us haven't done before.