I'm still in the process of replacing my timing belt and tensioner. I figured, if i take off the crankshaft sprocket I will have room to pry the tensioner spring back on. However, I'm not positive on how to remove the crankshaft sprocket. Should I use a puller? I don't see a bolt on the end. Some sort of ring with or key shaped piece.

 

what you can do is spray some liquid wrench on it then try to pry it off. you can use two screw driver(flat head) if you don't have a pry bar.

 

Hello ShawnBoy,

Geez you did get a lot of problem...
It is true I have never replace yet a Timing belt tensionner.
But I have replace 3 timing belt.
My first one on a ford escort96
second on my sister accent 2002 1.5L
third on my accent 2001 1.6L

They where all easy work and I am not a mecanic.
If you install your tensionner correctly your belt should slide in easy
(tensionner compress)

Have fun,