Drive Shaft Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install a spare nut onto the drive shaft.
Tap the nut with a copper hammer and separate the drive shaft from the axle.
Separate the drive shaft from the wheel hub.

Fig 1: Tapping Nut With Copper Hammer
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Separate the drive shaft (LH) from the transaxle by using the SSTs .
CAUTION:
- The sharp edges of the drive shaft can slice or puncture the oil seal. Be careful when removing the drive shaft from the transaxle.
  
  Fig 2: Using SSTs To Remove Drive Shaft From Transaxle
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
- For L5 engine model, use a wasted rug to protect the power steering oil pipe.
  
  Fig 3: Identifying Wasted Rug
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the drive shaft (RH) from the joint shaft by using the SSTs .

Fig 4: Disconnecting Drive Shaft (RH) From Joint Shaft By Using SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.