i was able to get my alternator bolted in, but unable to stretch the belt over the pulley. (I have a 2000 base model 2200 ohv with a/c) Should i have someone else help to try and pull it on while i release the tensioner (i was doing it alone) or is there another way to do it? I was told by numerous part stores that my belt IS the longest 5 groove and im not comfortable cutting a rib off a 6 groove. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

It is the longest belt. I found that if you take off the cruise control bracket and move it out of the way youll have enough swing in the tensioner to get the belt over. I used a long screwdriver to help the belt over the outer lip since it is a tight fit.

Good luck!