Today, I decided to make a second attempt at adjusting the alternator belt on my '88 Formula.
Previously, and again today, I struggled to find the right place and the right pry bar to tighten the belt.
Then I hit on the idea of using a 3-inch C-clamp to pull the alternator into position.
The adjustment was easy, precise, and effortless to hold while I tightened the mount bolts.
Here is a photo, shot from below, through the right rear wheelwell.

Thumbs up for being creative, but the problem is that you'll be under there again in a few months.

The best money I ever spent on my '86 GT...

Fiero Belt Tensioner

Now if I could just find/build something similar for my '84 duke.

I have a tool that sits between two pulleys and as you turn it it extends and tightens the belts. I never tried it on a 2.8 but it works well on my V8

quote Originally posted by Patrick: Thumbs up for being creative, but the problem is that you'll be under there again in a few months.

That's right. The problem is that everything is depending on a little bolt to hold it against a smooth bracket face. I hit upon the idea of inserting a star locking washer under the head of the adjusting bolt to give it much more gripping power against the bracket, it's worked like a charm.

quote Originally posted by Timpilot: Then I hit on the idea of using a 3-inch C-clamp to pull the alternator into position.

That's a really slick trick. You're using the boss on the alternator for your C-clamp where I usually use my 19MM wrench to tighten the tension on the belt.

I tried using a wrench on the boss but couldn't get enough room or the right angle to move the alternator.
Someday, when I have an extra $100+, I'll install the automatic tensioner.

Belt hate dirt/oil, left over/burned rubber, etc, on the pulleys.
Pulley(s) can be worn.
Belt can be too tight or too loose. Either will wreck the belt.

Yes, use a wrench to adjust the alt.
Using a clamp will work but be careful cause clamp make it easy to over tighten, and even break, the belt.

see my cave, serpent belt in general engine. many applies to V belts.

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Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.
(Jurassic Park)

The Ogre's Fiero Cave (It's also at the top and bottom of every forum page...)