Bolt won't go in pulley

[YMS1975]

Hey guys,

I've got a question about the pulley system for the serpentine belt on a 2005 Grand Prix (Base model). This morning as I was driving, I noticed a rattling sound. I popped open the hood and the first thing I noticed was the pulley right next to the alternator.

The bolt was out, just hanging by God only knows what force. I was able to literally just pull it out without any tools. The rattling sound came from the thin plate between the bolt and the pulley itself.

I recently changed the serpentine belt, so the two may be related.

Anyways, I cannot for the life of me get that bolt to go back into the groove so that I can tighten it. The threads simply refuse to align. I inspected the bolt and it seems ok. It doesn't look stripped or anything. Is it possible the threading inside (where the pulley sits) is stripped? After all, there was sufficient pressure on that bolt, as I was driving.

Any suggestions?

[BillBoost37]

Take a close look at the bolt, note that it has reverse threads.

If that doesn't work, your tensioner is likely fubared.

[YMS1975]

You sir....are awesome!

Reverse threads.....son of a ......

*Deep Sigh* Now I just have to put my belt & alternator back on; I took them off thinking the belt was putting too much pressure on the pulley so I might have some more play if I took them off.

Oh woe is me.