Mazda MX-5 Miata / Grand Touring. Manual — part 59

Fig. 2: Identifying Rear Drive Shaft (With Torque Specifications)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

LOCKNUT REMOVAL NOTE

1. Lock the disc plate by applying the brakes.

2. Knock the crimped portion of the locknut outward using a chisel and a hammer.

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Drive Shaft - MX-5 Miata

Fig. 3: Knocking Out Crimped Portion Of Locknut Using Chisel & Hammer
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

3. Remove the locknut.

BRAKE CALIPER COMPONENT REMOVAL NOTE

1. Suspend the brake caliper component using a cable or equivalent.

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Drive Shaft - MX-5 Miata

Fig. 4: Suspending Brake Caliper Component
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

2. Temporarily tighten the wheel nut to prevent the disc plate from falling off.

REAR DRIVE SHAFT REMOVAL NOTE

1. Temporarily install a spare nut to the end of the rear drive shaft.

2. Knock the nut with copper hammer lightly and remove the rear drive shaft from the wheel hub.

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Drive Shaft - MX-5 Miata

Fig. 5: Using Hammer To Remove Rear Drive Shaft From Wheel Hub
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

3. Separate the rear drive shaft from the wheel hub.

4. Insert a tire lever or equivalent between the rear differential and differential side outer ring, and then

remove the rear drive shaft.

5. Pull the rear drive shaft to the outer side of the vehicle and disconnect it from the rear differential.

6. To hold the rear knuckle component, install the rear lateral link (upper) to the rear knuckle temporarily

after disconnecting the rear drive shaft.

CAUTION:



The sharp edges of the drive shaft can slice or puncture the oil
seal. Be careful not to damage the oil seal when removing the
drive shaft from the differential.

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Drive Shaft - MX-5 Miata