tensioner

Hey guys, I replaced the alternator and was able to remove the belt... but i can figure out how to loosen the tensioner so I can reinstall the belt. I am a noob I know, but have mercy on me. Thanks.

Here is some advice, buy a Bentley manual to help you through things like this, they have pics that help a great deal.
Now to loosen your tensioner look at the tensioner pulley and remove the black plastic cap inside the tensioner. Once done you will have one of two types of tensioner. One uses a torx and the other I think is an allen wrench. Depending on which you have the procedure is the same, insert the tool into the opening in the middle of the tensioner pulley and rotate. If I recall right it is a clockwise pull. It might take a good bite of effort so a stubby allen or torx will not get the job done. Once you move the tensioner pulley you can slip the belt over it and be done....

thanks for the reply
but what is a torx?
I am pretty sure i don't have the allen key because there is a hole in the center but is doesnt look like an allen, just a smooth circle

Originally Posted by fun2drive

Here is some advice, buy a Bentley manual to help you through things like this, they have pics that help a great deal.

with the price of a bently manual I could buy 4 alternators, 3 BMW manuals, probably another 3-series vehicle that runs... come on, that is bad advice... I am trying to help a friend out here and we have never worked on this vehicle before, and dont plan too anymore (ha ha ha).
We are just new to BMW work... we looke at a BMW manual and it is $100+