Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Mazda 6 V6-3.7LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Timing Component Alignment Marks: Locations
Timing Component Alignment Marks
1. Align the alignment marks on the camshaft timing chain and both intake and exhaust side camshaft sprockets of both banks.
RH
LH
Timing Chain Component Installation Note
1. Verify that the crankshaft keyway is at 11 o'clock position.
NOTE:
- Of the three marked locations on the timing chain, align the mark that has a different color to the crankshaft sprocket side timing mark.
2. If the timing marks on the timing chain are not evident, place timing marks on the timing chain using an indelible ink marker.
NOTE:
- The marked external links are not included in the count.
- When marking the crankshaft sprocket side timing chain (No.3), change the mark color.
The number of external links
- No.1-2 : 38
- No.2-3 : 33
- No.3-1 : 27
3. Place alignment marks on the timing chain corresponding to each of the alignment marks on the timing sprocket.
1. Align the alignment marks on the camshaft timing chain and both intake and exhaust side camshaft sprockets of both banks.
RH
LH
Timing Chain Component Installation Note
1. Verify that the crankshaft keyway is at 11 o'clock position.
NOTE:
- Of the three marked locations on the timing chain, align the mark that has a different color to the crankshaft sprocket side timing mark.
2. If the timing marks on the timing chain are not evident, place timing marks on the timing chain using an indelible ink marker.
NOTE:
- The marked external links are not included in the count.
- When marking the crankshaft sprocket side timing chain (No.3), change the mark color.
The number of external links
- No.1-2 : 38
- No.2-3 : 33
- No.3-1 : 27
3. Place alignment marks on the timing chain corresponding to each of the alignment marks on the timing sprocket.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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