You want to be able to move the belt back and forth on the gears, but
you don't want it to be "floppy".  Make it so it is just not floppy when
it is cold and check it again when the engine is warmed-up.  Then it
will be a bit tighter but not like a guitar string.  It is an experience
thing mostly, and you will get the "feel" for it.
If the belt is too tight, the pump shaft bushing will wear before its
time and the input shaft will leak.

-Dana-

"Frederick M. Wasserstein" wrote:
>
> Thanks for all the information, It sounds like if I am careful what I am
> doing I should be able to do it!  Any other tips would be very appreciated.
> How do you know the tension is right on the timing belt!
>
> Fred
> 1982 Vanagon Westy " Sammy"