Power Plant Frame (PPF), Differential Mounting Spacer Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect the wire harness from the PPF.
Support the transmission with a jack.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Harness From PPF
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the PPF bracket.

Fig 2: Removing PPF Bracket
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential-side bolts, and pry out the spacer.

Fig 3: Removing Differential-Side Bolts
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the differential mounting spacer.

Fig 4: Removing Differential Mounting Spacer (1 Of 2)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 5: Removing Differential Mounting Spacer (2 Of 2)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Removing the PPF spacers will reduce the performance of the PPF. Do not remove the PPF spacers.
- If the spacers are removed, replace the PPF as a component.
Remove the transmission-side bolts, and remove the PPF.
NOTE:
- If the sleeve cannot be removed easily, tap the side of sleeve with a plastic hammer.
Remove the sleeve.

Fig 6: Removing Sleeve
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
To prevent damaging the fire wall and engine mount, support the transmission as follows.
1. Prepare a steel plate (as shown in Fig 7), a wooden block, bolts (M8x1.25), and washers.
  
  Fig 7: Preparing A Steel Plate Wooden Block Bolts
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
2. Install a wooden block as shown in Fig 8.
  
  Fig 8: Installing A Wooden Block
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.