Fan belt tensioner stuck!?

[Bbirge89]

I'm in the process of my first DIY water pump replacement on my 2005 ford explorer sport trac rear wheel drive 4.0L v6 SOHC and am trying to pull up or ppush down on the tensioner to free the belt but I cannot seem to make the tensioner break free from position. Any suggestions?

 

[swshawaii]

Cheater pipe on the 3/8" ratchet or breaker for leverage. Some find it easier from under the truck. Easy one man job.

 

[Markaprice73]

push down to relieve tension. Also, break the bolts free from the water pump pulley before removing belt.
1995 Ford Explorer Waterpump Repair - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2HRnhpExqA
How To Install Replace Broken Serpentine Fan Belt Ford Explorer 4.0L 1AAuto.com - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFGI7jdLvkQ

 

[ncranchero]

Thanks for the help guys, better than I could have provided. I've never replaced one on an Explorer/Trac.

 

[Bbirge89]

Thanks everyone. This site is unbelievably helpful