Trouble removing timing belt

So I’ve loosened the front timing belt tensioner bolt but I’ve managed to strip the back bolt. The front one loosened easily but the back one felt like it was on there wayyy too tight. Both are only 12mm.
My question is, is there a way I can remove the timing belt without relieving the tensioner? Sure I could cut it out since I have a new one but I’m sure I won’t be able to put the new one on without using the tensioner. I got an 8 hour drive tomorrow going back home so I’m pressed for time.

 

Yes, remove the top idler pulley, timing belt will come right off.

 

BTW, if you can't get the tensioner off to tension/pin it, you could use one of these.

$22 CTA Tools 2670 Toyota Timing Belt Tensioner Compressor

https://www.amazon.com/CTA-Tools-2670-Tensioner-Compressor/dp/B00VX0ODAY

Not sure if they rent these at auto parts stores. Without being able to unbolt the tensioner I don't see how you are going to get the new belt on without the tool above.

 

When you say "strip," do you mean rounded over the head? If so, you might be able to unbolt the PS Pump (I don't recall if you can do this without disconnecting the lines, but even that isn't difficult as long as you have some ATF to refill) to get better access to the tensioner bolt...ultimately to remove the tensioner by using a 6-point instead of 12-point socket (for instance), some penetrating spray, heat, etc.

If you mean that you actually stripped the threads, I'm not sure I'd want to run it that way (with just the front bolt)... so I'm hoping this isn't what you mean.

 

I just did this (⚠ Changed timing belt and coolant. This is what it sounds like. | Tacoma World). Best is to remove the tensioner. You'll need the slack to install the new belt.

To compress the tensioner, I used a welding f-clamp (c-clamp would also work) and a tiny drill bit to pin it.

 

I'd keep trying to remove and replace that bolt after you release the belt tension.
A 6 pt. does the trick.
I like a 1/4" 6 pt. on a 6" wobble extension straight from bottom.

 

So I was not able to get that bolt out and ended up leaving the tensioner in there. I did manage to remove the timing belt anyways buy doing what zero4 said along with following Timmy’s video and a little dish soap we eventually got old one out and new one on. It’s all put back together now and I just need to finish flushing the system and adding red coolant in the morning. Thanks to everyone for the replies.

 

Also open to tips for adding coolant. I was filling it with distilled water to get everything else out and it kept wanting to over heat. I got the heater on blast and giving it some gas here and there and it got to 215 then I shut it off. Is that normal? Timmy’s video seemed to stay around 185.

 

Did you burp the system? With the engine running and the radiator cap off squeeze the top hose.

 

Yes I’m trying to burp it but I’ve never heard of squeezing the top hose. I’ll have to try that one.