thanks, Mechanic and Chiphead. We've been through the size stuff too, belt and pully. We has been over the belt routing and she understands that. AC is involved. The problem is room. There isn't room for a ratchet, the space is too narrow. That's why I had her buy the Lisle serpetine belt tool. But even with it she runs out of swing room, the tensioner isn't bottomed out. The handle is stopped by the motor mount (?) maybe, or whatever. Last thing I suggested before she had to head to class was, to use the two shorter bars and pull it as far as possible, then install the longer bar and see if that gave her enough slack. She hasn't called back yet. I am hoping someone with experence with these Chevy Cavalier 4 bangers will see this post and know the problem and the solution. I thank you both for your reply. Mike
