yes
if im not mistaken..it is behind the timing cover..it runs off the timing belt You are correct. It is the belt tensioner for your timing belt and a pain to release to release the tension and also not the easiest to replace.
there is a sticker on your strut tower...my 88 is 8 degrees
Front of engine (behind serpentine belt).
The Pontiac Grand Prix has a Timing Chain with a spring loaded tensioner. The tensioner is know to wear, crack and then break. The timing chain and tensioner should be replaced at 100,000 miles. This is a pretty big job that can be done with the motor in the car. $$$ Ray
Remove beltUnbolt tensioner and remove
if its a 4 cylinder, its located inside the timing case.
You don't- it's controlled by the PCM. If is has a 2.5 engine you cann't adjust the timing
Check autozone.com it tells a bit about it. some engines you have to remove the timing belt so its not a very east job.
the timing belt tensioner is located on the lower side of the rear head just below the camshaft drives
Mine did this and I found out it was the timing belt that needed to be changed.
behind timing cover on front of engine if its a 2.0 ltr ohc