Valve Cover Removal/Installation - 2.3L: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda B2300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Remove the intake manifold assembly. See INTAKE MANIFOLD REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - 2.3L .
Position aside the cylinder head temperature (CHT) sensor boot.

Fig 1: Removing Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Boot
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the CHT sensor electrical connector.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor Boot
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the engine wiring harness from the valve cover studs.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Engine Wiring Harness From Valve Cover Studs

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Remove the spark plug wires. See SPARK PLUG WIRE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - 2.3L/3.0L/4.0L .
Disconnect the ignition coil electrical connector.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Ignition Coil Electrical Connector
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the bolts and the ignition coil.

Fig 5: Removing Ignition Coil Bolts
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the camshaft position sensor.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Camshaft Position Sensor
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the camshaft position sensor.

Fig 7: Removing Camshaft Position Sensor
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the crankcase ventilation tube.

Fig 8: Removing Crankcase Ventilation Tube
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the bolts and the valve cover.

Fig 9: Removing Valve Cover Bolts
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the valve cover gaskets, if necessary.

Fig 10: Removing Valve Cover Gaskets
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Do not use metal scrapers, wire brushes, power abrasive discs or other abrasive means to clean the sealing surfaces. These tools cause scratches and gouges which make leak paths. Clean and inspect the sealing surfaces.