It may sound like a lot of work, but it's really not! You may need an impact wrench though. The easiest way to tell if your variator is restricted, by either boss length or washer, is to remove it. If there is a washer between the two halves, remove it. If the boss is restricting it the two halves will not come completely together and you will need to buy a "derestricted" one. The main thing you are looking for is that the two halves will come completely together, allowing the belt to ride all the way to the top.