Genuine Mazda MX-5 Miata Crankshaft Timing Gear

Mazda MX-5 Miata Crankshaft Timing Gear Parts and Q&A

• Timing Gear
  1F20-11-316
  Q: What steps are crucial to avoid severe engine damage during the timing belt and Crankshaft Timing Gear replacement on Mazda MX-5 Miata?

  A:

  This process is only available to 2005 and earlier models and it has a complex timing system such that excessive damage to the engine can be done in the event that there is an error; hence, one should be extremely skilled in this kind of repair, just in case of any doubts, it is best to leave it to the expert. The first step is the disconnection of negative battery cable and depleting of the cooling system, then the engine under cover shield and air intake duct are removed as the second step. Disassemble the upper radiator hose and the small coolant hoses of the thermostat housing, remove the power steering or air conditioning drive belt, and the alternator drive belt. Then take off the ignition coil assembly, spark plug wires plus spark plugs of all the cylinders, water pump pulley, and four crankshaft plate bolt to remove crankshaft pulley. Disassemble the Valve Cover, timing belt covers and position the crankshaft and camshaft sprocket timing marks by turning the crankshaft. Take out the center bolt of the crankshaft sprocket and pulley hub and make a holding tool if needed and mark the pulley and the timing belt in case of reuse. Before removing the timing belt, loosen the timing belt tensioner, cover it with a rag and pry it outwards. When necessary, prybars or screwdrivers should be used to take out the crankshaft sprocket and the camshaft sprockets balancing the camshaft not to move. Check the tensioner and idler pulley bearings, noting whether they operate smoothly and with no excessive play, and look in the timing belt area to determine whether there is debris or damage. Change the timing belt in case it is worn or damaged and rectify the problem that could have resulted in the failure. To install, wash the timing belt space, fit the tensioner and idler pulley should it be removed and the crankshaft sprocker Woodruff key must be in place. Make sure that the timing marks on the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets match each other, place the timing belt over the sprockets, and attach the crankshaft pulley hub and bolt. Rotate the crankshaft until the timing marks match, loosen the tensioner pulley bolt to install tension and ensure that timing marks are oriented properly after rotating the crankshaft. Ensure that there is tension on the timing belt and make adjustments where necessary and snap all parts removed back together in reverse order. Lastly, test the engine to ensure that it is functioning well, and the timing belt should be properly mounted to prevent severe damage to the engine.