Rear Drive Shaft, Rear Knuckle Component Installation Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install a new drive shaft clip to the clip groove at the top of the rear drive shaft with the clip opening facing upward and the clip width within the specification.
Standard
1. 32 mm {1.3 in}
Fig 1: Identifying Drive Shaft Clip
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
After installing the clip, measure the outer diametric if it exceeds the specification, reinstall a new clip.
Apply differential oil to the differential oil seal lip.
CAUTION:
- The sharp edges of the rear drive shaft can slice or puncture the oil seal Be careful not to damage the oil seal when installing the rear drive shaft from the rear differential.
Insert the rear drive shaft into the rear differential with the clip opening facing upward.
After installation, verify that the rear drive shaft is securely held by the clip by pulling the outer ring on the differential side towards the axle.