Variable Valve Timing Actuator Component Removal 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.

CAUTION:

Do not rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise. The timing chains may bind, causing engine damage.

Rotate the crankshaft counterclockwise until the keyway is in the 9 o'clock position.
Slowly compress the camshaft timing chain tensioner (LH) piston by hand.

Fig 1: Identifying Keyway In 9 O'Clock Position
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Insert an approx. 1.0 mm {0.039 in} thin wire or paper clip into the camshaft timing chain tensioner (LH) shown in the figure to hold the tensioner piston.

Fig 2: Holding Tensioner Piston (LH)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- When the timing chain removed, valve spring pressure will rotate the camshaft (LH) approx. 3° to a neutral position.
Install the SST onto the camshafts (LH).
CAUTION:
- Always use an appropriate tool (TORX or TORX PLUS). If the appropriate tool is not used, it could result in damage to the bolts or the tools.
  
  Fig 3: Installing SST On Camshafts (LH)
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Tool size

TORX: T55

TORX PLUS: 55IP

Fig 4: Identifying TORX & TORX PLUS
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- The camshaft sprocket is integrated with the variable valve timing actuator and cannot be disassembled.
Remove the variable valve timing actuator, camshaft timing chain and the exhaust camshaft sprocket of the LH bank as a single unit using the appropriate tools.
Remove the SST from the camshafts (LH).
Slowly compress the camshaft timing chain tensioner (RH) piston by hand
Insert an approx. 1.0 mm {0.039 in} thin wire or paper clip into the camshaft timing chain tensioner (RH) shown in the figure to hold the tensioner piston.

Fig 5: Holding Tensioner Piston (RH)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the SST onto the camshafts (RH)

Fig 6: View Of SST On Camshafts (RH)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- The camshaft sprocket is integrated with the variable valve timing actuator and cannot be disassembled.
Remove the variable valve timing actuator, camshaft timing chain and the exhaust camshaft sprocket of the RH bank as a single unit using the appropriate tools.
Remove the SST from the camshafts (RH).