The intermediate shaft is used only on the M20 engine. The shaft rotates in the cylinder block parallel to the crankshaft. It is driven by the timing belt and its only job is to turn the oil pump.
1. Remove the timing belt (see Part Repair work carried out without removing the engine from the car).
2. With the belt removed, unscrew the bolt securing the gear to the intermediate shaft and the bolts of the front cover.
3. Remove the oil pump drive shaft (see Part Repair work carried out without removing the engine from the car).
4. The shaft is held in the cylinder block by a plate with two bolts. Remove the bolts and pull the shaft forward from the block.
5. Inspect the surface of the shaft bearings and the rear end gear that turns the oil pump shaft for signs of abnormal wear. If the bearing surfaces in the cylinder block are worn, contact a mechanical workshop.