Electric Variable Valve Timing Actuator Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Mazda 3. 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.

Mark the timing chain and each actuator so that they can be reassembled in the same condition as before removal.

Fig 1: Marking Timing Chain And Actuator
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Hold the intake camshaft using a wrench on the cast hexagon and remove the electric variable valve timing actuator installation bolt.

Fig 2: Holding Intake Camshaft Using Wrench On Cast Hexagon
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Using a screwdriver wrapped in a clean cloth, lightly press the electric variable valve timing actuator to the front and separate the intake camshaft and the actuator.

Fig 3: Pressing Electric Variable Valve Timing Actuator To Front
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the timing chain from the exhaust and intake camshaft sprockets and set is aside, and remove the electric variable valve timing actuator.

Fig 4: Removing Electric Variable Valve Timing Actuator
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Return the timing chain to the exhaust camshaft sprocket, and pull the timing chain up and suspend it using a rope as shown in the figure.

Fig 5: Pulling Timing Chain Up Using Rope

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.