Very easy.

Stick an extension into the hole on the side of the upper spring attachment block. Remove the nut from the through bolt, push down on the extension to relieve the pressure, and push the bolt back to clear the block. Release tension and the spring will go slack and you can remove the belt. Installation is the reverse -- use the extension to pull the spring up and shove the bolt through, put the nut back on.

I wish the tensioner on the M103 was this easy!

Take the fan clutch off -- use a 1/8" or 3 or 4mm allen wrench in the "slot" on the bearing plate to lock the clutch and an 8mm allen with a "booster pipe" on it to loosen the bolt. Remove bolt by hand and lift clutch and fan off. Take about two minutes after taking the fan shroud loose (two clips at the top, lay back over fan).

Takes less time to remove the ran than it does to fish the stinking belt in with it on. I've done it both ways, fan comes off now.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!