Valve Cover - (LH) Removal / Installation - 3.0L: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mazda B3000. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the upper intake manifold. See INTAKE MANIFOLD UPPER REMOVAL / INSTALLATION - 3.0L , .
Disconnect the left hand spark plug wire holders.

Fig 1: Locating Left Hand Spark Plug Wire Holders
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the engine wiring harness from the valve cover studs.

Fig 2: Locating Engine Control Harness
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the PCV valve electrical connector.
Remove the three bolts and the five stud bolts.

Fig 3: Identifying PCV Valve Electrical Connector With Bolts
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- To prevent stretching the valve cover gasket, loosen silicone gasket and sealant from the cylinder head by sliding a flat knife between the valve cover gasket and cylinder head.
Remove the valve cover.

Fig 4: Locating Valve Cover
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove and discard the valve cover gasket, if required.

Fig 5: Locating Valve Cover Gasket
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 mane leak paths. Use a plastic scraping tool to remove all traces of old sealant.
NOTE:
- To clean the sealing area, use silicone gasket remover and metal surface prep. Observe all warnings and cautions and follow all application directions contained on the packaging for the silicone gasket remover and metal surface prep.
Clean the LH valve cover gasket mating surfaces.