Q: How to remove and install an axle shaft for 4WD on 1997 Mazda MPV?
A: To remove the axle shaft, first loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle, and securely support it on jack stands while applying the parking brake and blocking the rear wheels. Remove the front wheel, then unstake and remove the axle shaft hub nut by inserting a screwdriver through the caliper into a disc cooling vane to hold the hub stationary. Unbolt the ball joint from the control arm, push the axle shaft out of the hub, and support the outer end with wire to prevent damage to the inner CV joint; if the axle shaft sticks, thread the nut onto it until flush and tap with a soft-faced hammer. Use a large screwdriver or prybar to pry the inner joint out of the transaxle, then support the CV joints and carefully remove the axle shaft from the vehicle. For installation, lubricate the differential seal with multipurpose grease, raise the axle shaft into position while supporting the CV joints, and insert the splined end of the inner CV joint into the differential side gear, tapping it into position with a hammer and brass drift. Ensure the axle is seated securely by pulling out on the inner CV joint housing, apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to the outer CV joint splines, pull out on the strut/steering knuckle assembly, and install the stub axle in the hub. Connect the ball joint to the control arm, install a new hub nut, lock the disc to prevent turning, and tighten the hub nut to the specified torque, ensuring to stake the new nut. Finally, install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.