Mazda MX-5 Miata (1997+). Manual — part 23

Fig. 10: Removing CV Joint Boot
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig. 11: Exploded View Of Axle Shaft Assembly

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata

1997-2001 DRIVE AXLES Axle Shafts - MX-5 Miata

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Reassembly

1. To reassemble, reverse disassembly procedure. Wrap tape around drive axle shaft ends before sliding CV

joint boots onto drive axle shaft. See Fig. 12 .

2. Align marks on cage and inner ring. Install balls to inner ring. Install cage, inner ring and ball assembly to

axle shaft in direction shown. See Fig. 14 . Larger diameter of cage should be facing snap ring groove.

3. Install a NEW snap ring in axle shaft snap ring groove. Apply specified amount of grease to joints and

boots. See LUBRICATION SPECIFICATION table. Align marks and install NEW clip.

4. Ensure that boots are not dented or twisted. Set axle shaft to standard length. See AXLE SHAFT

LENGTH table. Release any trapped air from boots by carefully lifting up small end of each boot with a
cloth-wrapped screwdriver. Ensure that axle shaft length is within standard. If drive shaft length is not
within standard, repeat this step.

5. Fold NEW band back by pulling on end with pliers. See Fig. 15 . Band should be folded in direction

opposite forward revolving direction of axle shaft. Lock end of band by bending locking clips.

Fig. 12: Installing CV Joint Boot
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

Inner and outer CV joint boots differ in design and/or diameter. CV joint boots
are stamped DOJ (wheel side) and BJ (differential side). Ensure correct boot is
installed at proper end when reassembling axle shaft. See REAR AXLE SHAFT
BOOT IDENTIFICATION table. See Fig. 13 .

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata

1997-2001 DRIVE AXLES Axle Shafts - MX-5 Miata

Fig. 13: Measuring Axle Shaft & Identifying Boots
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata

1997-2001 DRIVE AXLES Axle Shafts - MX-5 Miata

Fig. 14: Installing Balls In To Inner Ring
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata

1997-2001 DRIVE AXLES Axle Shafts - MX-5 Miata