VVT issues...Camshaft removal question

[michaele30]

2003 Mazda6-3.0L

I need to remove the intake camshafts on the car to replace a faulty VVT (Variable Valve Timing) Actuator....the shop manual shows to remove the timing chain etc. (Huge job)

I was wondering if anyone here has done the cam removal without the chain coming out...after studying it today, looks possbile to, maybe someone could shed some insight into this job.

Thanks in advance....

 

[zinger002]

how else would you get the cam sprocket out?

 

[michaele30]

I was originally thinking it could be removed without the chain being released, but after further research I see this is not possible due to the rachet-style tensior .....so has anyone done the job I need to do.

Do I have to remove the enitire chain out, or can I just release it and lock it open with the paper clip, giving me enough slack to then remove the cam without having to remove the actual chain??