I'm having problems replacing the fan belt on my 1990 Protege. I can't seem to find anyway to release the tension in the belt as to remove and replace it without having to completely disassemble half the engine. Is there any trick or certain bolt or two which can be loosened to release the tension?

Thanks

 

Oh, well Im rather a novice with this type of thing but what my problem is, is a very high pitched squeeling noise, especially off a cold start. When I rev the engine a bit, the noise subsides but it's horribly annoying. Up until now everyone's told me it's the fan belt and it needs replacement.

 

Sounds like your alternator belt....do you have the owner's manual? it show how to adjust the belt tension....

 

Jesus Jesse, why do you have to be so damn technical? You know what he's talking about.
Anyway, loosen the nut on top of the alternator, and push it towards the firewall. Then re-tighten. If the noise still persists, loosen the nuts behind the power steering pulley. Add tension to the belt, then tighten. Hope this helps.