Chrysler Repair: Water Pump/Timing belt: 2.5L V-6, timing belt tensioner, cotter pin

Question
Hello, I need to replace the water pump on my 2.5L V6 1996 Cirrus. I am aware it runs off the timing belt, however, I cannot figure out where the timing belt tensioner is. I have hit a roadblock, and would appreciate your advice. Any added information, on replacing the water pump would be appreciated. Thanks, Tyler

Answer
Hi Tyler,
The timing belt tensioner is done by means of a spring-loaded pulley that is the one closest to the crankshaft sprocket.  The tensioner is held in place by two bolts, which when removed will release the tensioner and allow the piston inside of it to extend and of course upon removal of the tensioner so too will the tension on the belt. If you plan to reuse the timing belt then mark an arrow in the direction that it rotates. If you don't have any shop manual to work with, I can xerox copy and postal mail to you the pages from the Haynes #25015 that covers both the timing belt and the water pump replacements. I would not try to do this job without such information. The tensioner has to be re-compressed in a vice and held in place with a cotter pin until you re-install it and then pull the pin. There are a great many details that you will want to know about this job so either get a manual from a public library that stocks auto manuals, buy a Haynes, or let me know and I'll send you the necessary pages.
Roland
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