I'm about to install a new drive belt but I can't figure out how to move the tensioner to allow me to slip off the old belt and install the old one. I understand how to gain access through the removable panel by the front passenger tire but I still can't see how I can release the pressure on the belt. It's a 2002 Grand Caravan, 3.3L.

 

Should be a 17MM bolt on it. Maybe another size. It is hard to move. A cheater pipe on your ratchet from the top may be the only way to effective force on it.

 

On a 3.0 engine I had, a little different than yours, I had to break loose the tensioner. It is actually locked into place. Look for the second bolt that locks it.

 

You have to rotate it, against its spring, with a wrench. It's spring loaded in order to keep pressure on the belt.
Here's a couple of sites that will help you understand the procedure.
http://www.faqs.org/qa/qa-18669.html

http://groups.google.com/group/rec.a...f015f28e789c59

 

Just make sure it's properly aligned on each pulley. I have to change my belt soon too because the tool that put it on didn't line it up properly and it's all chewed to ****.