Genuine 1997 Mazda MPV Driveshaft

1997 Mazda MPV Driveshaft Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to remove the rear driveshaft on 1997 Mazda MPV?

  A: In order to lower the rear driveshaft on all models, you have to first lift the vehicle up and then make sure you are on jackstands with the transmission in Neutral and the parking brake off. Place alignment marks on every drive shaft flange, the U-joint and companion flanges included, with the help of a scribe, white paint, or a hammer and punch so that when the driveshaft is reinstalled the shaft will be balanced. On 2WD models, loosen the bolts on the rear flange and the bolts, washers and bushings and spacers on the center bearing support then drops lower the rear portion of the driveshaft and slips out the front portion of the transmission. In 4WD models, it is the same, only that the forward section of the front part should be unbolted at the companion flange of the transfer case. During the time the driveshaft is removed, TPV inspection of the U-joint must be done; in the 2WD models, the entire driveshaft assembly needs replacement, whereas in 4WD models, the U-joints only. The opposite to removal is reinstallation, it is necessary to align the marks left on all the flanges and tighten fasteners to the required torque. To the front driveshaft, in 4WD models, mark the driveshaft flange and differential flange, so that they can fit back into place correctly when refitted, then loosen the bolts and nuts holding the driveshaft flange to the front differential companion flange, slide the slip yoke out of the transfer case, and strip the driveshaft. Torque and alignment occurs during reinstallation.