Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda Tribute. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

The normal operating temperature of the exhaust system is very high. Never attempt to remove any part of the system until it has cooled. Be especially careful when working around the catalytic converters. The temperature of the converter rises to a high level after only a few minutes of engine operation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

Place the selector lever in NEUTRAL.
Raise and support the vehicle. .

Fig 1: Removing Ground Strap Bolt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the ground strap bolt.

Fig 2: Removing Rear Driveshaft Universal Joint Caps
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- Do not reuse rear driveshaft joint bolts. Install new bolts only or damage to the vehicle may occur.
Remove the rear driveshaft universal joint caps.
1. Index-mark the pinion and yoke to the rear of the driveshaft.
2. Remove and discard the bolts and straps.
  
  Fig 3: Removing Six Front Driveshaft To Power Take Off Bolts And Washers
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  CAUTION:
  - Do not reuse the CV joint bolts and washers. Install new bolts and washers only or damage to the vehicle may occur.
Remove the six front driveshaft to power take off bolts and washers.
- Discard the bolts and washers.
  
  Fig 4: Removing And Discard Center Bearing Nuts
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  CAUTION:
  - Do not reuse center bearing nuts. Install new nuts only or damage to the vehicle will occur.
With the help of an assistant, remove the driveshaft.
- Remove and discard the center bearing nuts.
  NOTE:
  - If a driveshaft is installed and driveshaft vibration is encountered after installation, index the driveshaft. Refer to DRIVESHAFT INDEXING .
To install, reverse the removal procedure.