Copied from one of my previous posts:
I recently removed the belts to remove the alternator to fit new brushes and slip rings. I used a 24mm Teng combination spanner. There was just enough clearance to slide the ring end of the spanner between the tensioner bolt and the chassis. I had a piece of flat mild steel that was a perfect fit between the spanner ring and the chassis so I slid it into the gap. I used strong string from a hole in the mild steel to somewhere vertically above on the engine to stop the mild steel dropping out. I then used a ratchet strap between the open end of the spanner and the chassis to release the belt tension. It was very secure.
To clarify, I looped the strap round the shank of the spanner as close to the open end as I could get it. Don't put it in the U of the spanner as it may slip off. A strong pull was required to release the belt tension but the ratchet strap was easily capable of generating and holding the required pull. I released the ratchet strap after unseating the belts.
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