Well, I've done some reading and it seems that this has been a fairly common problem. My timing belt tensioner tool threads in about a half inch and then just keeps turning. I guess some cars where like this from the factory. I can't find any info on what to do about it short of pulling the motor. Any ideas?

you don't have to pull the motor to fix this. BUT you do have to take all the pulleys off, timing belt cover, side motor mount. and then you should be able to get to it and take it off. (may be forgetting something). then just take it to a machine shop and get it re-threaded.

might have to take the timing belt off but not sure, can't totally remember.

same thing happened to me and I got mine fixed without taking the engine out

ok thanks!