I was attempting to get a belt onto the A/C compressor of my '82 240D. Even with all three tension bolts almost all the way out, it the compressor didn't want to budge. Loosened tensioner bolt all the way out, no resistance over the travel of the nut and then the bolt lets go. Looks like where the stud was mounted to bracket was twisted over time I was the lucky one it let go on.

Now I have the belt on, and thinking of ways to tighten it. My best idea is to use a jack and a block of wood (similar to jacking an engine via the oil pan) and gently lift it until the belt is tight, then tighten the three tension bolts. I realize that I may warp the compressor case but I'm not out much, the car was $60 and the A/C is really the only thing that doesn't work. It didn't have a belt on the compressor, and the compressor clutch wire was severed. It is an aftermarket compressor, it has a reman tag on the case. Not really sure if the compressor works, it had a little residual pressure in this system. I evacuated and pulled a vacuum which has been holding for three days so far.

Any other ideas on how to tighten the belt? Unless the compressor is shot, don't really plan on pulling it.

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1982 240D
1993 Mazda Miata LE
1991 Mazda MPV
1993 Volvo 940 Turbo Wagon