Where is the tensioner for the belt to change the water pump on a 1997 Pontiac Sunfire?

Answer 1

Tensioner PulleyThe Tensioner Pulley on the 1997 Pontiac Sunfire 2.2L. The tensioner is located just behind the alternator, if you are looking straight at the front of the car. It is the top middle pulley. To release tension you must purchase a special tensioner wrench to turn it. There is a nut that resides on the recesses of the middle of the pulley, and if you try to use a socket and wrench or an open end wrench, you will find it rather hard because there isn't enough clearance to get your wrench or socket in there. The other alternative is using a crow bar to push the tensioner forward. But you risk scratching up your pulley. It is also harder to get your belt back on the pulley, when you use a crow bar. But it can be done........................................ I MUST MODIFY THIS ANSWER I DIDNOT ANSWER THIDS BUT JUST DID THIS YESTERDAY YOU CAN USE A OPEN END WRENCH ITS A TIGHT FIT BUT IF YOU PUT THE BELT ON THE ALTERNATOR PULLY LAST USE A FLAT SCREWDRIVER TO HELP EASE IT ON. NO NEED TO BUY THIS TOOL .PDP