What's the easiest way to keep the tensioner wheel released on a 96 Blazer so I can change the serpentine belt

Auto Manufacturers make a tool for that, I did a few useing a Tire Iron then eventually made a Universal tool.

Most every Timing Shop. Tune Up place has them, the Dealer definatley has the, and sometimes you can use a loaner from Auto-Zone,Pep-boys,whatever.

Is a tuff job without that tool, but not impossible by any means.
What's the easiest way to keep the tensioner wheel released on a 96 Blazer so I can change the serpentine belt
put a wrench or ratchet right on the bolt that holds the idler pulley to the end of the tensioner arm in a manner that gives you leverage to move the arm (it's a 15 mm bolt I think) I believe that it's left hand threads so as you pull your wrench it will move the arm and not loosen the bolt that holds on the pulley.



Route the belt around everything else first then as you bring it up alongside the pulley wheel pull back on your wrench to move the idler arm back and slip the belt over it.
What's the easiest way to keep the tensioner wheel released on a 96 Blazer so I can change the serpentine belt
cant



you pull it back as you put the belt over last pully and let it go
Should be a tool available to release the tension...check parts retail chains...some will loan tools for use on their property or rent them for take-home use...renting small specialty tools is pretty cheap for occasional use
other than just holding it by yourself you dont. You just move it enough to get the belt off then release it put new belt on and pull back untill it fits.