Timing Belt Installation Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda 626. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that the timing belt pulley mark and camshaft pulley marks are aligned with the timing marks as shown.

Fig 1: Aligning Engine Timing Marks
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the timing belt so that there is no looseness at the idler side.

Fig 2: Installing Timing Belt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Turn the crankshaft clockwise twice, and align the timing marks.
Verify that all timing marks are correctly aligned. If not aligned, remove the timing belt and repeat from Step 1.

Fig 3: Verifying Timing Marks Are Correctly Aligned
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Be sure not to apply tension other than that of the tensioner spring.
Turn the tensioner clockwise using an Allen wrench.
Connect the tensioner to the hook pin.

Fig 4: Connecting Tensioner To Hook Pin
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Turn the crankshaft clockwise twice, and verify that all timing marks are aligned. If not aligned, repeat from Step 1.

Fig 5: Verify That All Timing Marks Are Aligned
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.