C: Camshaft And Camshaft Sprocket Assembly (Exhaust Side) Removal Preparatory Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Insert a precision flat-tipped screwdriver through the service hole of the timing chain case, press up the timing chain tensioner ratchet to unlock, and keep the timing chain tensioner with that state.
NOTE: Lightly press down the tail end of the precision flat-tipped screwdriver to press up the tip of the precision flat-tipped screwdriver inserted to the timing chain tensioner to unlock.

Fig 1: Identifying Cylinder Head Upper Surface And Camshaft Sprocket Timing Marks
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
CAUTION:
- When inserting special tool MB992103 into the timing chain case assembly inside, pay attention to the position of the timing chain to avoid damage to the timing chain and timing chain tension side guide. Do not insert the special tool beyond its insertion guideline.
- If unlocking the timing chain tensioner is insufficient, the special tool cannot be inserted to the insertion guideline. Do not insert the special tool forcibly, follow Step 1 again to unlock the timing chain tensioner and insert the special tool.
With the timing chain tensioner unlocked, insert special tool MB992103 inside the timing chain case assembly along the tension side of the timing chain until the insertion guide line aligns with the upper surface of the timing chain case assembly (Figure A).
NOTE: With the timing chain tensioner unlocked, insert the special tool along the tension side of the timing chain, according to the special tool top shape. The special tool can be inserted smoothly to the position where the special tool insertion guide line aligns with the timing chain case assembly top surface (Figure B), and the spread timing chain tension side guide can be held (Figure C).

Fig 2: Identifying Timing Chain, Insertion Standard Line And Special Tool (MB992103)
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
With the special tool inserted up to the insertion guide line, press the special tool against the intake side camshaft sprocket and spread and hold the timing chain tension side guide.

Fig 3: Identifying Timing Chain Tensioner And Special Tool (MB992103)

Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.

Remove the flat-tipped precision screwdriver unlocking the timing chain tensioner.
CAUTION: The timing chain may snag on by other parts. After sagging the timing chain, never rotate the crankshaft.
With the timing chain tension side guide spread, hook the special tool over the hexagon part of the camshaft on the exhaust side, and turn the camshaft clockwise to apply slack to the timing chain between the camshaft sprockets.

Fig 4: Identifying Hexagon Part Of Exhaust Camshaft, Timing Chain And Special Tool (MB992103)
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.