Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mazda B2300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

The crankshaft, the crankshaft sprocket and the pulley are fitted together by friction, with diamond washers between the flange faces on each part. For that reason, the crankshaft sprocket is also unfastened if you loosen the pulley. Therefore, the engine must be retimed each time the damper is removed. Otherwise, severe damage could occur.

Remove the timing chain and sprockets. See TIMING CHAIN REMOVAL / INSTALLATION - 2.3L , .
Remove the camshaft alignment plate SST.

Fig 1: Identifying Camshaft Alignment Plate (303-465)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Failure to follow the camshaft loosening procedure can result in damage to the camshafts.
NOTE:
- Note the position of the lobes on the No. 1 cylinder before removing the camshafts for assembly reference.
Remove the camshafts from the engine.

Fig 2: Identifying Camshaft Bearing Cap Bolts Loosening Sequence

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Loosen the camshaft bearing cap bolts, in the sequence shown, one turn at a time.
Repeat the first step until all tension is released from the camshaft bearing caps.
Remove the camshaft bearing caps.
Remove the camshafts.