Quoting tinkolby_25:
Are there any alternatives to the special timing belt tensioner tool? I'm trying to get it done b4 saturday.
I have always compressed the tensioner with a big C clamp, then put an allen wrench through the 3 aligned holes to keep it compressed. Then, i put two allen wrenches in the cam-adjustable bearing, with a screwdriver between them. I hold tension against the belt while keeping the arm in contact with the tensioner, and then tighten the bolt in the bearing. When i see the retainer or allen wrench in the tensioner release tension, i keep going, and when i feel a little tension on the retaining allen wrench, going DOWN, rather than up... i consider it done. I remove the retaining allen wrench, give the engine a couple of full revolutions, then see if i can get the allen wrench back through the tensioner. If it will go thru, things are as they should be. Once your timing belt tension is set, you should be able to put an allen wrench through all three tensioner holes and spin it freely. I actually learned this while working for the dealership as a tech. It's easier to do with the right tools, but 3 allen wrenches and a screwdriver have been good enough for me at home.