Hydraulic Variable Valve Timing Actuator and Exhaust Camshaft Component Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Mazda CX-5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

Keep the timing chain pulled up during and after the work in which it has been set aside from the sprocket. If the chain falls down, it may disengage from the sprocket on the crankshaft side and deviate, leading to valve timing deviation.
After servicing, always verify the valve timing.

Leave the timing chain as it is, which was suspended after electric variable valve timing actuator removal.
Temporarily install the cylinder head cover bolt to the position shown in the figure to use it for suspending the timing chain.

Fig 1: Identifying Cylinder Head Cover Bolt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Loosen the exhaust-side camshaft cap bolts in two or three passes in the order shown in the figure, and remove the camshaft caps.

Fig 2: Exhaust-Side Camshaft Cap Bolts Loosening Sequence
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
While setting the timing chain aside, remove the hydraulic variable valve timing actuator and the exhaust camshaft as a single unit.

Fig 3: Removing Hydraulic Variable Valve Timing Actuator And Exhaust Camshaft Single Unit
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Pull up the timing chain and suspend it using a rope as shown in the figure.

Fig 4: Pulling Up Timing Chain Using Rope

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.