Pinion Preload: MPV
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mazda Tribute, 2002 Mazda Millenia, 2002 Mazda 626, 2001 Mazda Tribute, and 2001 Mazda Protege. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Ensure steering rack is in center position. Using protractor (49-D032-316) and torque wrench, tighten adjusting cover to 15 ft. lbs. (21 N.m), then loosen cover 25-30 degrees. Apply sealant to threads of adjusting cover. Tighten lock nut to 37-50 ft. lbs (50-68 N.m).
- Check pinion preload. Install preload adapter (49-8038-785A) on pinon shaft. Measure pinion preload using spring scale. With steering rack in center position, pinion preload must be 1.8-3.0 lbs. (.8-1.3 kg). If preload is not as specified, loosen lock nut and readjust adjusting cover.