Rear Bearing Assembly Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Install the spacer with the chamfer on the gear side.

Assemble the spacer selected in the pinion height adjustment to the drive pinion
Press the drive pinion into the rear bearing using the SSTs and a press.

Fig 1: Pressing Drive Pinion In Rear Bearing Using SSTs

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Drive Pinion Component Assembly Note

Drive pinion preload adjustment

NOTE:

Perform preload adjustment with the oil seal un-installed.

Assemble the following parts to the drive pinion.
- New collapsible spacer
- Front bearing
- New spacer
- Companion flange
- New washer
- New locknut
Turn the serrated part of the drive pinion by hand to seat the bearing.
Tighten the locknut temporarily tightened in Step 1 from the lower limit of the specified tightening torque using the SST , and obtain the specified preload. Record the tightening torque at this time.
Tightening torque

128-284 N.m {13-29 kg.m, 95-209 ft.lb}

Differential drive pinion preload

1.3-1.7 N.m {14-17 kg.cm, 12-15 in.lb}
- If the specified preload cannot be obtained within the specified tightening torque, replace with a new collapsible spacer and adjust again.
Remove the locknut, washer, and companion flange.

Fig 2: Removing Locknut

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.