How do you loosen the tensioner on a 2003 Suzuki XL-7?

Answer 1

I actually learned this last night while trying to tighten my A/C belt. The tightener is located in the center of the belt configuration - almost in the middle of the rad area. I have big hands so to make it easier, the rad overflow canister (driver's side) slides off of its bracket & move to opposite side. Next, remove the 2 bolts holding on the Power Steering canister bracket on the driver's side top of the rad. This will only allow it to move over a bit due to the mix of steel & rubber pipes, but sure makes a difference for access to the tensioner. Now it's tensioner time. There are 2 bolts on the face of the tensioner. The one on the driver's side is the main holding bolt, I found it easier to losen this (slightly) with the closed end of the crescent wrench since the fan blade is so close. You can next losen the passenger side bolt - which is in a sort of half-moon groove in the tensioner. The tensioner should now be able to move either direction. To tighten it, you'll need an approximate 16" flat screwdriver/prybar to be able to get under the fan shaft and on top of the tensioner. So you have to be able to hold down the tensioner with the prybar in your left hand while tightening the passenger side bolt with the other hand. Once that bolt is tight, it won't slacken off so you will have time to tighten the other bolt. Check your belt tension to ensure it is correct - if so, then start putting the cannisters back on.