Axle Shaft (Right Side) Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda 6 and 2003 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Secure the shaft portion of the intermediate shaft in a vise.
As shown in the illustration, insert a pry bar between the axle shaft and intermediate shaft, and tap on the bar to uncouple them. See Fig 1 .

Fig 1: Uncoupling Intermediate Shaft & Axle Shaft

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.