Genuine Mazda MPV Universal Joints

Mazda MPV Universal Joints Parts and Q&A

• Universal Joints
  8BS1-25-060
  Q: What are the functions and maintenance of driveshafts and universal joints on Mazda MPV?

  A:

  The driveshaft is a pipe linking the transfer case or transmission to the rear or front axle and which has Universal Joints (U-joints), each end of which permits the transmission of power at different angles. Every model has a two-piece rear driveshaft (with center bearing support), and 4WD models have a one-piece front driveshaft. All rear driveshafts have their rear parts consist of double-offset (constant velocity) joints directly above the bearer support in the center which allow the length of the rear axle to vary out of shape as the axle moves. Slip yokes are fitted to both 2WD and 4WD models with oil seals to avoid fluid leakages and block entry of dirt; any form of visible leakage will require the replacement of the seal. The driveshafts are not very service-intensive because the U-joints on 2WD models and the double-offset joints on all driveshafts are not serviceable and require replacement by complete assembly in case of problems, though the U-joints on 4WD models can be serviced. Balancing of the driveshaft is important and thus should be clean and checked to ensure there is no damage done to it and little balancing weights are not lost. In case of noise or vibration during driving, a road test may be applied to identify whether the driveshaft is the cause of trouble; this means to observe which engine speed causes the largest effect of the problem and to test in other gearboxes. In case the noise or vibration reduces, visual inspection of the driveshaft to check any damage and materials that affect the balance should be done and the tire balance or wheel damage checked. In case the problem continues with constant engine speed in all gears, the driveshaft is probably not the problem. Check U-joints wear: Drive slowly in High gear, then coast, then accelerate to hear clunking sounds or drive slowly in Neutral at 10 to 15 mph to hear unwanted driveline sounds. Also, extensive play may manifest itself by lifting the vehicle and turning the driveshaft by hand and monitoring the U-joints.
• Universal Joints
  N010-25-060A
  Q: How to replace Universal Joints in a driveshaft on Mazda MPV?

  A:

  This will involve the use of some sort of a press or large vise and it may be a good idea to bring the Driveshaft to a repair or machine shop and have the U-joint replaced at an affordable cost. Start by taking off the driveshaft, and then clamp it in a tough vise with the shaft and yoke marked so they can be assembled correctly after which the snap-rings are removed off the spider. Place the driveshaft on a workbench fitted with a vise and place a section of pipe or a large socket with the same inside diameter on one of the bearing cups and place a slightly smaller socket on the other bearing cup. Use the vise and sockets to press out the U-joint bearing cups, only a little way, to the point where the cup is no longer in the yoke, and then press the cup out, using the vise or large pliers. Flip the sockets and force the opposite bearing cup out on the opposite side. Once the bearings have been removed, lift the spider off the yoke and remove all dirt and debris on both sides of the yokes in the driveshaft. Fill the new U-joint bearings with grease in accordance with any given lubrication instructions with the servicing kit. Making sure that any grease fitting does so in the right direction place the spider in the yoke with one bearing cup partially in place, then place the other partially in place. Make sure that the spider and the bearing cups are aligned, and the bearing cups are pushed into place, without damaging the dust seals. Lastly, place in the snap-rings and if there is some trouble in fitting the snap-rings, then hit the driveshaft yoke hard with a hammer so that the ears of the yoke spring a little and then in the groove, the snap-rings may be installed. One should also do this when the joint is tight once the assembly is completed and that once it is done, the driveshaft should be re-assembled and lubricated when it has a grease fitting.