Hey guys I know this has probably been posted before but I'd like to know some tips and tricks for changing the drive belt on a 5.3l
I know gm/ kent-moore has the special belt wrench, but I know there must be some tricks, I've heard of people prying on the tensioner spring or
loosening tensioner assembly, any other tips?

am also going to do the thermostat, seems like it would be easiest to access from underneath as the exhaust manifold is in the way.
any thoughts on that?

thanks for the help.