320i 1983 Ac belt tensioner stuck

[Rshahin]

I was working on my 320i and wanted to change the belts I loosened the alternator bracket then the first belt came loose but it didn’t come off because I needed to remove the ac belt then I couldn’t loosen the tensioner pulley to release the belt, any information on how to release the tensioner. Is it spring loaded or does the bolt need to be loosened and should I loosen it from the bolt on the outside or the one on the block? Thank you for your help.

[Jeroen]

Don't have much experience with E21's with AC, but isn't there a slotted metal strip at the bottom of the AC compressor where you adjust the tension? But with an aftermarket or modified system there could be a spring loaded tensioner, bu I don't think that was fitted from the factory.

[nic65]

photo?