timing tension problem

[Batman007]

trying to complete front 60k but cant get tension rod compressed to install the timing belt. i have tried 4 different c-clamps but they all slip off before i can get the allen wrench in the hole to hold the tension rod. Help!
Any better way to do it than what is shown on the phoenix project? Need car tomorrow. And I thought the seal replacement was hard!

 

[Batman007]

try try try try try try try try again... took cold chisel to c-clamp to get a bit more grip, cut 1x2 board about 5 " long to wedge between c-clamp and wheel well and a prybar bwtween the back of the clamp and engine block to hold it still while i torqued it down. whoopie!

 

[rubydist]

it works a lot better for me if I do that while the tensioner is removed from the engine. you can put in a vice, etc. to clamp it together to get the pin in there.

 

[Batman007]

wow. wish i knew that yesterday!