Timing Chain and Tensioner Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the upper timing chain guide.

Fig 1: Removing Upper Timing Chain Guide
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: The timing chain tensioner must be removed to unload chain tension before the timing chain is removed. If it is not, the timing chain will become cocked and it will be difficult to remove.
Remove the timing chain tensioner plunger.

Fig 2: Removing Timing Chain Tensioner Plunger
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Locate hex on the exhaust camshaft and hold with an appropriate size wrench.
Remove the exhaust cam bolt and the exhaust cam sprocket.
Discard the bolt.

Fig 3: Removing Exhaust Cam Sprocket & Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the adjustable timing chain guide.

Fig 4: Removing Adjustable Timing Chain Guide
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the plug to gain access to the fixed timing chain guide bolt.

Fig 5: Removing Timing Chain Guide Bolt Access Plug
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the fixed timing chain guide.

Fig 6: Removing Fixed Timing Chain Guide
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Locate hex on the intake camshaft and hold with an appropriate size wrench.
Remove the intake cam sprocket bolt, the intake cam sprocket and the timing chain through the top of the cylinder head.
Discard the bolt.

Fig 7: Removing Timing Chain, Intake Cam Sprocket & Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the crankshaft sprocket.

Fig 8: Removing Crankshaft Sprocket
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the oil nozzle and bolt.

Fig 9: Removing Oil Nozzle & Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.