[Shotimes] Adjusting Belts - Source for Hex Keys?

[krazgeo@comcast.net]

 -------------- Original message ----------------------
From: Chris Riedl <zap@columbus.rr.com>
> Can anyone confirm this and tell me who  
> might carry the right size sets of hex keys, either locally or online  
> if they are not able to be found locally.  Am I correct in thinking  
> that the tensioners use a 5mm?

You are correct....they are 5 mm.

Use a 3/8 inch drive hex socket---that is, a socket with a hex stub that you put on the ratchet.  Use an extension  (6 inch minimum...12 inch would be better) for the front idler, the one for the a/c and alternator.  For the rear one, use all the extensions you can find....I can get to the rear adjustor with a 12 inch and two 6 inch extensions.  It's not exactly in a straight line, but you can make it work by setting the socket in the bolt first, then putting the extensions into it.  It helps to get the engine shock strut out of the way on some cars...there are a couple of different strut mount designs.  But on my cars I can reach that rear adjustor from the top with all the extensions without removing a bunch of stuff.  

George