Has anyone changed this?

Is there any tricks to it or is it staight forward? TIA

I put a socket on it and turn it clockwise but the tensioner would move to release to the tension on the belt. I am scared of breaking the bolt. Any ideas?

Edit: this has a 360 in it.

 

My only tip is to remove the ignition coil. This will allow you easy access to the rear of the tensioner bracket in order to remove the mounting nut. As far as the belt goes...you had it right, pull the pulley over enough to be able to slip the belt off.

 

Thanx I will attempt this today and let everyone know.

 

Chazwel just a little tip because I just changed one is from under the van remove coil top and bottom bolts that hold the coil. The center bolt that is blocked by th dip stick tub leave in place and with plires or channel locks twist the housing down toward you for easier access

 

Good tip from Alloro to remove coil -- this will allow you to get to the nut that holds the tensioner unit onto the aluminum engine bracket.

Note there are two ways to remove the coil. There are two phillips screws that hold the coil to it's bracket; try those first. If they are frozen or rusted you may wish to remove the entire coil bracket from the front of the engine. I believe three 14mm bolts hold that bracket on.

Note there is a roll pin in the rear of the tensioner. Make sure this pin inserts into the opening on the engine bracket before tightening the new tensioner down.

 

Excellent advise by all. It took me about 20 minutes to do the job. I sprayed some kroil on the 2 phillips head screws hold the coil on and used a 1/4" socket with a phillips bit to remove. The one bolt that holds the tesioner on was a 15mm and yes be sure the anti rotation pin (on the backside of the tensioner) is in place before tightening. The belt was in good condition so I re-use it. Works like a charm, no squeaks.

Thanks to all.