To your #1, you can always try to go to lower gears but it first will be a pain in the <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/butwiggle.gif" alt="" /> well I am not certain at all so can't help you there.
#2 don't do it to tight, you should have about 1" of slack when you push on the belt.

Javy

88 red Montero with the Dakar Special Edition decals, 438,000 miles (As of 7/23/2012) some occational blue puffing but still strong and counting!!! I am going ppsshhh (turbo), Stay tuned =) ...