I am to the point in replacing my timing belt where the book tells to "remove the balance shaft belt by loosening the tensioner bolt and push up on the tensioner to relieve tension on the belt"...

I tried to do this, however because the timing belt is still on, so when I try to push the tensioner up to relieve tension on the balance shaft belt I am fighting the timing belt. I notice the engine pictured in the book doesn't have a timing belt on it.

How do I relieve tension to remove the belt(s)?

 

Can't remember on the 4th gens....on the 5th (almost the same engine) there is a "lock" for the balance shaft tensioner

 

THANK YOU VERY MUCH! That was helpful, and much appreciated!

Now, I am stuck again trying to get everything back together. I get everything (belts, tensioners, springs, etc.) in place but the timing belt has A LOT of slack on the left side, as you look at it. I've taken it off and put it back on a couple of times, and can never seem to keep the belt tight, even when I try to tension it, it has a lot of slack on that side.

I know on a totally different vehicle I did a timing belt on awhile ago, my book told me to turn the crank 2-3 teeth on the sprocket, install the belt, then return the crank to the timing mark. I've been leery of trying that because of the whole interference engine situation.

Also, once everything is back together, there should no longer be a bolt in the timing belt adjuster arm, right? On the picture you posted I am referring to the 6 x 1.0 mm bolt. Sorry for asking so much, I just want to make sure I get this right.

Thanks again for your help

 

That bolt in the picture is NOT supposed to remain in there when you're done. There's a couple ways to deal with the slack.

First, the belt isn't supposed to be TIGHT like an alternator belt. General rule is the long span of the belt (closer to the radiator) should be able to twist just about 90.deg.

1. Loosen the adjusting nut just enough to let the springs take up the tension in the belts.
2. Turn the crankshaft counterclockwise JUST ENOUGH to move the slack over to the other side of the belt, to allow the tensioner pulley to take up the slack.
3. Tighten the nut while holding the crankshaft so you don't lose the tension.

Some people like to use a coathanger-hook to pull up on the tensioner pulley (help out the spring). I like to avoid that if I can, so I avoid over-tightening the belt.

 

Thank you very much