A tensioner having a base (2), a spring (1) connected to the base (2) biases a plate (4), having a pulley (7), toward a belt. Frictional blocks (9, 10) are aligned on the base (2) in a staggered fashion along a spring (1) centerline. The plate (4) slidingly moves in a linear path between the blocks (9, 10). The blocks (9, 10) constrain the path of the plate (4) allowing movement in only a single axis parallel to a spring (1) axis. A hubload from a belt running on the pulley (7) combined with the spring (1) force acting on the plate (4) cerates a force couple acting on the plate (4) through the frictional blocks (9, 10). The engaging surfaces between the plate (4) and the blocks (9, 10) have e predetermined coefficient of friction thereby creating a damping force as the pulley (7) and plate (4) move in a linear path on the blocks(9, 10).