I'm trying to change the timing belt and tensioner. I have no idea on how to get the spring back on. I can't believe no one on the internet has no problem getting the spring back on. Has anyone ever replaced there tensioner on their 02 accent.

 

loosen the 12mm bolt, then use a pry bar move the tensioner back then tightened the bolt(12mm) then remove and replace the belt. don't remove the spring.

 

didn't noticed that you removed the spring, sorry, did you remove both 12mm bolts already? if so install the 12mm on your left first then try to install the second one on your right afterwards.

 

Thanks for your help. But i tighten both bolts but the spring ends needs to be pulled back to lay on the two metal pieces.

 

usea flat head screw driver or some sort of pry bar and pry the spring back on. that's the only way it's going to work.