Hi owen martin,

Sorry to hear of your predicament. Hee are the procedures for the replacement.

AUTO -TENSIONER
Inspection & Replacement (3.0L)

1 . Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer "A", start the engine and check the position of the pointer again. If the position changes, go to step 5 . See Fig. 21 .

2 . Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the tensioner pulley.

3 . Stop the engine. Remove the alternator belt. See Fig. 17 .

4 . Check if the auto-tensioner "A" moves smoothly and check for abnormal noise when the pulley is turned counterclockwise. If the auto-tensioner does not move smoothly or if the there is abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner. Do not move the auto-tensioner beyond its limit. See Fig. 17 .

5 . Stop the engine, then remove the auto-tensioner. See Fig. 22 .

6 . Clamp the auto-tensioner "A" by using two 6 mm bolts "B" and a vise "C". Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself. See Fig. 23 .

7 . Attach a torque wrench to the pulley bolt. Measure the torque when the tensioner is turned counterclockwise. If the torque is less than the 17 ft.lbs (23 N.m), replace the auto-tensioner. See Fig. 24 .

8 . If necessary, remove the pulley bolt "A" (left-hand threads), and replace the tensioner pulley "B". See Fig. 25 .

Transmission lag when cold are usually due to bad shift solenoids or trans fluid condition. If the trans fluid had not been replaced and looks drk in color, I would suggest replacing them asap.

Good luck to your job hunting.