Yes! Freeing up those hoses did the trick, and the A/C belt came off. I cut off the too-short alternator belt to save time. The alternator is now installed with a 13 x 1050 belt, which fits nicely. The alternator is in the middle of the travel with the belt tightened for use. I cut off the excess adjustment screw thread so it would fit into the bezel nut with the alternator at full travel toward the block and it's now engaged and tensioned.

I now have all the belts back on, and have quit for the night. I'll tighten the AC and PS pumps tomorrow morning.

Thanks for all the help from you guys! I really appreciate it.

John Bonds
'82 240D 4sp, 200k (30mpg, town and highway)
'99 Lexus LS400, 85k (21mpg town, 27mpg highway--80mph).