Camshaft End Play Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata, and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install the camshaft cap. (Refer to ENGINE DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY , CYLINDER HEAD DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY (II) , CAMSHAFT DISASSEMBLY NOTE .)
Measure the camshaft end play. Replace the cylinder head or camshaft as necessary.
Standard End Play
1. 0.057-0.127 mm {0.0023-0.0049 in}
Maximum End Play
1. 0.20 mm {0.008 in}
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Camshaft End Play
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the camshaft cap. (Refer to ENGINE DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY , CYLINDER HEAD DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY (II) , CAMSHAFT DISASSEMBLY NOTE .)