Removal & Installation: Camshaft: Removal

1. Remove intake manifold. See INTAKE MANIFOLD . Remove spark plug wires and distributor assembly. Remove seal plate. See Figure. Remove front exhaust pipe. Remove generator bracket. Remove retaining bolts, valve cover and gasket. Remove timing belt and camshaft sprocket. See TIMING BELT .
2. Note location of camshaft bearing caps for reassembly reference. Camshaft bearing caps on right cylinder head are numbered for location with No. 1 at timing belt end of engine. Camshaft bearing caps on left cylinder head contain letters for location with "A" at timing belt end of engine. See Fig 1.
3. Loosen front camshaft bearing cap bolts in sequence using several steps. See Fig 1. Remove front camshaft bearing caps. Loosen remaining camshaft bearing cap bolts in sequence using several steps. Remove all camshaft bearing caps except thrust bearing cap. Thrust bearing cap is removed last.
   CAUTION: Remove thrust bearing cap last to prevent damage to thrust caps. See Fig 1.
4. Remove camshaft, oil seal and blind cap. See Figure. Note location of hydraulic lash adjuster for reassembly reference. Remove hydraulic lash adjuster (if necessary).
   NOTE: Store hydraulic lash adjusters in upright position submerged in clean engine oil.
5. Inspect friction gear on front of camshaft for damage (if equipped). If removing friction gear, install camshaft in soft-faced vise on hexagonal area of camshaft. Remove nut and friction gear.

Fig 1: Identifying Thrust Caps & Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolt Removal Sequence

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.