Main Control Cover Removal/Installation: Removal

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. See LIFTING .
Remove the air cleaner (ACL) assembly.
1. Remove the ACL assembly bracket bolt.
2. Disconnect the mass air flow sensor (MAF) sensor electrical connector.
3. Disconnect the brake booster vacuum hose from the ACL outlet pipe.
4. Detach the wiring fastener from the ACL assembly.
5. Disconnect the engine breather from the ACL assembly.
6. Loosen the ACL outlet pipe clamp at the throttle body (TB) and remove the ACL and ACL outlet pipe assembly.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying ACL Assembly Bracket Bolt
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the transaxle fluid drain plug and allow the transaxle fluid to drain.

Fig 2: Identifying Transaxle Fluid Drain Plug
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the transaxle fluid drain plug.
- Tighten to 12 N.m {1.2 kgf.m, 106 in.lbf}.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Transaxle Fluid Drain Plug
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the 2 nuts, pull the transaxle fluid cooler tube bracket and tubes away from the transaxle and position it aside.

Fig 4: Locating Transaxle Fluid Cooler Tube Bracket Bolts
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the transaxle electrical connector.

Fig 5: Locating Transaxle Electrical Connector
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the transaxle electrical wiring harness retainers from the transmission fluid pan stud bolts.

Fig 6: Locating Transaxle Electrical Wiring Harness Retainers
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the 8 bolts, 5 stud bolts and the main control cover.
NOTE:
- Note the location of the stud bolts for assembly.
  
  Fig 7: Locating Main Control Cover Stud Bolts
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.