[natethegreat_501]

Well it's certainly possible but I would also question the diagnosis. Nothing wrong with a second opinion right?

If you've ever done a timing belt, the chain is not much harder. I don't have the link handy, but if you search on YouTube there's an excellent video on doing this step by step. It's actually a Mazda training video. You'll know it when you find it.

Also get the service manual in the "how to guides" section.

A timing chain isn't really that hard, but it's a good bit of work. The key is it must, above all, be done correctly. One tooh off on a sprocket and you're screwed. Check your work, double check it, and when you're done that check it again.

Replacing the guides and tensioner is just good practice, but I think you'll find the sprockets completely unnecessary. Those aren't an item likely to ever wear out.

Thanks for the response back man! I have done a timing belt but just didn’t know if it was even possible to remove the cover since it’s so close to the frame rail on the side. I’ve seen that video on YouTube and it was really good but I was worried since the motor was out of the vehicle in their training video that it might have to be a job where the engine comes out of the car. Hopefully it can be done with the motor still installed though. Like I said in my original post, cork sport did it in the vehicle so I think it’s certainly achievable.