1996 Saturn SL2 tension pulley

Are you talking about the two 10mm bolt's if so are you turning them counter clockwise.Why are you having trouble getting them out?Let me know.

I believe the 1998 (which I have) and the '96 are literally the same models (with the DOHC). This was a HUGE issue when I changed mine (with the help of 2carpros of course). The original bolts were very terrible. The first thing I'd noticed is that the threading was bad on both bolts; I can't explain why, but when putting them back in, they wouldn't go. The local parts store matched them up and I replaced them with 13mm.

If you are using a 1/4 drive ratchet, stop. A 3/8 provides better torque, and leverage. When I used the 1/4 inch drive, I rounded off the bolts partially, mainly because it was a nightmare to get them out. It is a little tricky getting the top bolt out, as there is very limited space, but the 3/8 will prove a fitting substitute to getting the bolts out, plus getting them back in (you will probably need a deepwell socket for the top, and at least a 6-inch extension for the bottom)