Genuine 2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata Differential Seal

2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata Differential Seal Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to replace the differential seal on 2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

  A: Lift the back of the car and place it on jackstands so that it is secure and then take off the back wheels and the brake calipers. The second step is to take out the exhaust system rear half. Mark the driveshaft and companion flange to help in realigning the driveshaft during assembly, then remove the driveshaft. Take out the drain plug of the differential housing and then drain out the differential lubricant in a container; when fully drained, fit the drain plug. Position inch-pound torque wrench so that it contacts the pinion shaft nut and gradually turn the pinion shaft nut and take note of the amount of torque required to initiate the start of the pinion shaft turning. Indicate the position of the pinion nut and companion flange, and then grip the companion flange with some suitable tool and take out the pinion nut and be sure to keep the shaft still. Lift the companion flange (with the help of a puller, perhaps) and having observed the exposed side of the oil seal, now tediously peel it off the differential with a screwdriver or pry bar, careful not to scratch the splines on the pinion shaft. Wash the oil seal mounting surface and tap the new seal into position making sure that it fits in squarely. Check the splines on the pinion shaft and pinpoint any burrs and nicks and remove them using a crocus cloth and wiping off the splines. Install the companion flange, aligning it to its position when removed and rather lightly beating on it with a soft faced hammer till the pinion nut can be started on the pinion shaft. Withhold the companion flange and tighten the pinion nut to the lowest torque, and then continue tightening the pinion nut with small steps and measuring the preload with frequent rotation torque readings, so as not to drastically decrease the pinion bearing preload by backing off the pinion nut. Lastly, fit the driveshaft, brake calipers, and wheels, fill the differential with oil, drop the vehicle, and test drive to ensure that there are no leaks.