Timing Chain Component Installation Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that the crankshaft keyway is at 11 o'clock position.

Fig 1: Identifying Crankshaft Keyway At 11 O'Clock Position
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- Of the three marked locations on the timing chain, align the mark that has a different color to the crankshaft sprocket side timing mark
If the timing marks on the timing chain are not evident, place timing marks on the timing chain using an indelible ink marker
NOTE:
- The marked external links are not included in the count.
- When marking the crankshaft sprocket side timing chain (No. 3), change the mark color.
  The number of external links
  
  No. 1-2 : 38
  
  No. 2-3 : 33
  
  No. 3-1 : 27
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Timing Marks On Timing Chain
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place alignment marks on the timing chain corresponding to each of the alignment marks on the timing sprocket.

Fig 3: Locating Marks On Timing Sprocket
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Push down the link plate of the timing chain tensioner and release the plunger lock.
NOTE:
- The plunger should retract with minimal force. If binding occurs, remove the chain tensioner from the vise and reset it in the vise.
  
  Fig 4: Identifying Link Plate & Plunger Lock
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Secure the chain tensioner using a vice attached with a soft base, and slowly press the plunger back shown in the figure while pressing down the link plate.

Fig 5: Pressing Plunger

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Release the pressure slightly from the plunger, and move the plunger back and forth 2-3 mm {0.08-0.11 in) .
Insert an approx. 1.5 mm {0.059 in} thick wire or paper clip where the link plate hole and the tensioner body hole overlap to fix the link plate and lock the plunger.

Fig 6: Fixing Link Plate & Locking Plunger

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Install the timing chain in the following order.
1. Crankshaft sprocket
2. Chain guide
3. Tensioner arm
4. Timing chain
5. Chain tensioner
  Tightening torque
  
  9-11 N.m {92-112 kgf.cm, 80-97 in.lbf}
  
  Fig 7: Identifying Timing Chain Components
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the retaining wire.

Fig 8: Identifying Retaining Wire
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.