Moving the tensioner pulley

[PaulC]

Working on a 79 Spider 2000 2L and am in process of replacing the timing belt.
Book says to loosen the #2 bolt in the picture and pry the pulley to release tension on the belt.
Did that but the pulley won't budge.
Am i missing something else?

[nelsonj]

Yes! You also have to loosen the nut on pulley itself. Otherwise, you will break the special bolt that holds the spring when trying to use it as leverage. Don't ask me how I know this (twice).

None of the books mention this, just loosen both, and push on the pulley to offset the spring tension. Then re-tighten the spring bolt to hold the belt slack while you replace it.

Good luck. Don't break the special spring bolt! (But if you do, just use needle nose pliers and "unscrew" it. )

Peace.
Out.

[PaulC]

Thanks for the response. Hoped it was something simple.
Also found that the timing indicator for the crank pulley can be swung up which allows you to slip the new belt in without removing the crank pulley.

[tima01864]

Did that work, Not removing the crankshaft pulley, replacing the timing belt?

[geospider]

I did the same thing. yes, you can move the timing marker and slip the belt around.
My new belt was tight as hell, a pita to put on but once got it one with everything lined up: started on first try. After several other tings done.