OK. I'm guessing the arm should not have any play? Or just a tiny bit? At approaching 200K miles, I wouldn't be surprised if the arm has play - it looks like it's been there as long as the piece it's attached to - that sort of whitish aged look. Replacing the arm + shock adds $100 to this procedure but I'll do it if it needs it.

I have been reading past posts on tensioner arm etc replacement - it looks like one key thing is to remove the spring so the arm has more freedom to move. Also to have a coat hanger handy to help thread the belt over bottom pulleys.

thanks,

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Charlie

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'66 VW 1300 96K miles
'97 E300D 239K miles
'85 300D 203K miles (sold Sep 2012)