Genuine Mazda RX-7 Axle Shaft

Mazda RX-7 Axle Shaft Parts and Q&A

• Axle Assembly
  MA10-25-500
  Q: How are axle shafts removed and replaced, and what steps are involved in the process on Mazda RX-7?

  A:

  They may also be dismantled by removing axle shafts to replace case, failing bearings and seals, which may need an axle puller to extract them out of the housing and a press to remove the bearing and collar. Lift the back version of the car and firmly hold it with jack stands after which, unscrew the screws connecting the rear wheel and the brake drum and then unscrew the screws connecting the rear wheel to the car. Test side play of the axle bearing, adjust the axle hub and measure with a dial indicator; standard side play is 0.012 -0.018 inches and the limit is 0.028 inches and bearing replacement is necessary should the side play be out of specification. Disassemble brake shoe assembly and unhook the parking brake cable; connect and detach the clip and work the cable through the backing plate. You should be ready to lose fluid, so that you will have rags or newspapers ready, and then you will loosen the brake fluid pipe, but not remove it, and remove the plate under the nut. Disconnect the fluid pipes through and through, and then try to remove the axle shaft and backing plate assemblies out of the housing, with the aid of a puller, etc. After release, carefully pull the assembly out, carrying the shaft to prevent damaging the oil seal and examine the seal with regard to wear or leakage and replace as necessary. Cover the housing to exclude dirt, and where the bearing needs replacement, go to a dealer or machine shop to press off the bearing and collar, or cut off the collar, as may be required. Check the splines of the axle shaft against damage, install backing plate and spacer and press the bearing in place. Install the retaining collar on the shaft with no lubrication but one that has enough force to install firmly. Install the oil seal in a manner that puts grease on the lip, and wipe the end of the axle housing thoroughly. Install the axle shaft and backing plate assembly, making sure that the oil seal is not damaged, and install the backing plate nuts loosely. Link the fluid lines, screw the nuts in and reconnect the parking brake cable and brake shoe assembly. Lastly, screw the brake wheel and its drum back into place then lower the vehicle to the ground.