How do you release the tensioner to remove and replace the serpentine belt on a 2000 Town & Country 3.3? Do I need a special tool? Thanks in advance.

 

Anybody?

 

there are tools yes depends on which tensioner u have some use a 19 mm wrench and other will use a 3/8 drive ratchet.

 

I have a 3.8 2002.

The tensioner has a square hole that a bar will fit if it is small enough to fit between the sheet metal of the wheel well and the tensioner. My breaker bar would not fit. No doubt there is a specialized tool for the job.

I solved the problem by using a motorcycle ratcheting tie downstrap. I put it on the tensioner and pulled the tensioner down to remove the tension. I am fortunate to have a backyard buddy lift in the garage and I attached the other end of the tie down to the tire rail.

It is one of those service situations that you would love to meet the designer/engineer that left so little room to do the job.

 

How do I know which one I have?Are there any tell-tale markings? I just don't see anything to attach to.

 

I believe that I just hooked over the arm of the tensioner and pulled it down. On the 3.8 pulling it down releases the tension.

Be careful because the spring on the tensioner is very strong.