GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Saturn P/N 21485277 Loctite 242® , or equivalent to threads. Torque bolt.


    Object Number: 873565  Size: SH

    Caution: The tensioner assembly's internal parts are not serviceable. To avoid injury, do not disassemble the tensioner.

  1. The right-hand upper engine mount and lower splash shield clips require removal for tensioner and idler pulley fastener access. A 1 in. x 1 in. x 2 in. long block of wood can be placed between the torque strut and frame to support engine during mount removal.

  2. Object Number: 873155  Size: SH

    Important: Installation of the wood block prior to removing the upper engine torque axis mount allows the mount to be easily installed without lifting or jacking the powertrain.

  3. Remove the 3 engine, upper engine torque axis mount-to-front cover nuts and the 2 engine mount-to-midrail bracket nuts, allowing the powertrain to rest on the block of wood.
  4. Remove the accessory drive belt.

  5. Object Number: 870806  Size: SH

    Important: Depending on the position of the engine to right-hand midrails, the tensioner can possibly be removed without power steering pump removal.

  6. Remove the power steering pump assembly with bracket.
  7. Refer to power steering pump assembly removal.

    Important:  Access and removal of the tensioner can also be completed by removing the right-hand tire and splash shield.

  8. Remove the upper and lower tensioner attachment fasteners.
  9. Important: The engine may have to be moved slightly toward the left-hand fender for tensioner removal. A pry bar can be placed between the steel engine motor mount and frame rail to move the engine. Do not pry against aluminum engine components or accessories.

  10. Remove the tensioner assembly.

Installation Procedure

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 870806  Size: SH
  1. Install the tensioner and attachment the fasteners.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the belt tensioner-to-block 30 N·m (22 lbs ft).

    Important: The accessory drive belt tensioner can be installed at 2 different positions. Correct installation of the accessory drive belt tensioner positions the pulley at approximately the 3 o'clock position.

  3. Install the power steering pump assembly.
  4. Refer to power steering pump assembly replacement.


    Object Number: 873155  Size: SH
  5. Install the accessory drive belt.
  6. Notice: To prevent engine front cover and mount damage, the three engine mount to engine front cover nuts must be tightened down uniformly.

    Important: Ensure that the belt is properly aligned on the pulleys.

  7. Install the engine mount-to-midrail bracket nuts first.
  8. Next, install the 3 engine mount-to-front cover nuts.
  9. Remove the block of wood from under the torque strut after the engine mount assembly is installed.
  10. Tighten

        • Tighten the engine mount-to-front cover nuts 50 N·m (37 lb ft).
        • Tighten the engine mount-to-midrail bracket nuts 50 N·m (37 lb ft).
  11. Attach the lower splash shield clips.