Removal Note

Remove the axle shaft; see AXLE SHAFT REAR (STANDARD) REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .
Mark the propeller shaft flange and rear axle companion flange for correct alignment during installation.

Fig 1: Locating Rear Axle Filler Plug
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the four propeller shaft retainer bolts.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Rear Anti-Lock Brake Speed Sensor Connector And Wiring Harness Clips
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- The propeller shaft centering yoke fits tightly on the rear axle companion flange pilot. Never hammer on the propeller shaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the flange.
Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the propeller shaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle companion flange.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Vent Hose From Axle
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the rear anti-lock brake speed sensor connector and wiring harness clips.
1. Separate the wiring harness from the clips and position the harness aside.
Fig 4: Separating Brake Line From Retaining Clip On Axle
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- Do not disconnect the brake lines from the brake hose junction.
Disconnect the brake hose junction block from the rear axle housing.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Brake Hose Junction Block From Rear Axle Housing
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the rear axle vent hose from the rear axle housing.
CAUTION:
- Pull the brake lines from the retaining clips.
Disconnect the rear brake drum backing plates and wire them out of the way.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Rear Brake Drum Backing Plates And Wire
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Position a suitable jack under the rear axle housing and strap it securely in place.

Fig 7: Positioning Jack Under Rear Axle Housing
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the nuts and bolts retaining the shock absorbers to the axle.

Fig 8: Removing Nuts And Bolts Retaining Shock Absorbers To Axle
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the nuts, the rear axle U-bolts and the rear spring plates.

Fig 9: Removing Nuts, Rear Axle U-Bolts And Rear Spring Plates
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Lower the rear axle from the vehicle.