Just doing my first water pump and timing belt change and I was having a hard time with the tensioner and idler. I measured from bolt center to bolt center on the new pump and old pump, it turns out the holes on the new pump are further apart by about 4mm. this will not allow me to even get the old belt back on. Any suggestions? *note the tensioner as as little tension as possible.

 

Can you snap a pic or two of the situation?

Your asking about the timming belt tensioner and idler pullies or the bolt holes on the water pump?

Did you buy your parts as a whole package?

 

Bought new bosch water pump from napa, the actual bolt holes are out of position that the idler and tensioner bolt to. I called a buddy who's done a escort GT belt he has a spare new pump he's on his way.

 

This is why I only use OEM parts.