Hello all.

I'm digging into my ignition/fuel delivery systems, replacing/investigating a lot of parts. I want to replace my alternator, but am not sure how to release the belt tension. The Haynes manual says to "Rotate the tensioner counterclockwise to release tension on the drivebelt."

If I do this, as I have attempted, the tensioner comes towards me a little, and then the bolt on the pulley starts to turn if I pull hard enoguh. This did not seem right. Am I going the wrong way?

Can anyone explain to me how to do this???

OK....I updated my signature....as it is a 3800 series II vin K...

so you're telling me to actually push toward the rear of the car, correct?
does the tensioner then pop and lose tension?

I feel real stupid but I want to make sure I'm right

Put the ratchet/socket or whatever you're using on the tensioner, and push down on the handle as it points to the front of the car.

Damn this is embarrassing....

So I push down, relieve the tension, and just slip the belt off the tensioner....correct?

Yup, Make sure to slowly let the tensioner back up, That thing hurts when it smacks your knuckles.... (experience here)

Correct, but you may find it easier to lift the belt off the Alternator first. Pick the smallest pulley as the 'first off, last on' for the belt.