Pinion Preload: Protege
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 14 ft. lbs. (20 N.m), then loosen adjusting cover 23 degrees. See Figure.
- Attach Install Preload Adapter (49-0180-510B) on pinion shaft. See Figure. Measure pinion preload using spring scale. Pinion preload should be 2.0-3.0 lbs. (.9-1.3 kg). Apply sealant to threads of lock nut. Install lock nut.
- If preload is not as specified, repeat procedure. If preload is as specified, apply thread sealant to adjusting cover lock nut. Install lock nut. Hold adjusting cover in place and tighten lock nut to 29-36 ft. lbs. (40-49 N.m).