Replace solenoid without removing rats nest
 

Hi - I tried searching, but to no avail.

is it possible to remove and replace a solenoid on the rats nest without removing the entire assembly? I've already broken one thing down tehre and would appreciate a guide or things to look out for before I get after it in case it is possible.

Yes. You obviously have to take off the UIM, but I have replaced individual solenoids in the rack several times. The trick is the solenoid locks in on the bottom into a metal "V". You need to carefully remove the electrical connector since the wires are often times brittle from heat and also carefully remove the vacuum hoses to not break them either. Then slide the solenoid out, sometimes quite hard, using a pair of long nose pliers. That's it. Put in the new one and reconnect everything. I would recommend a new solenoid if possible and I also always bench test the new solenoid to make sure it works properly before putting it in. Several yeas ago I got three new ones from Mazda and one was poorly functioning and I had them replace it with another new one. The testing procedure is here on the forum, search for it.
Mike

Oh, one last thing. Depending on which one needs replacing, you may need to remove the ignition coil pack behind it. That does add more time and effort but still not that bad.
Mike

Got it out, luckily the solenoid clip was broken and it was loose enough to pull it out and I could see what i was working with. I basically went to it after starting this thread and worked through your suggestion prior to reading it.

Thank you!