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.

NOTE:

This must be done to reduce the timing belt resistance when the idler pulley is installed.

Set the tensioner in place and hand tighten the tensioner upper bolt.

Fig 1: Positioning Tensioner With Upper Bolt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Turn the camshafts clockwise and align the timing marks.

Fig 2: Aligning Camshaft Sprockets Timing Marks
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Using the crankshaft pulley bolt, turn the crankshaft clockwise and align the timing marks.

Fig 3: Aligning Crankshaft Sprocket Timing Marks
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
With the No. 1 idler pulley removed, install the timing belt on the pulleys in the following order:
1. Timing Belt Pulley
2. No. 2 Idler Pulley
3. Camshaft Pulley (LH)
4. Tensioner Pulley
5. Camshaft Pulley (RH)
Fig 4: Installing Timing Belt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Verify that there is tension between pulleys (3) and (1), and between pulleys (1) and (5).
CAUTION:
- Verify that the belt has no looseness at the tension side.
- Do not damage the bolt threads when installing.
Install the No.1 idler while applying the pressure on the timing belt.

Fig 5: Installing No. 1 Idler
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Push the auto tensioner in the direction of the arrow and hand tighten the lower bolt. Tighten the bolts.

Fig 6: Positioning & Hand Tightening Tensioner
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the pin from the auto tensioner to apply tension to the belt.

Fig 7: Removing Pin From Auto Tensioner
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, remove the timing belt and repeat from TIMING BELT INSTALLATION NOTE .

Fig 8: Verifying Timing Marks Alignment

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.