actually, having the spring is not THAT important (just makes it easier), if you install the belt in the proper sequence (it's in the book somewhere) going around and keeping the belt tight at each step so that you put it onto the tensioner in the last step, so all remaining "looseness" comes over the tensioner.
I'd guess the proper sequence is to start at the next sprocket (clockwise) from the tensioner and progressing clockwise around.
I hope I made sense
T.
