Mazda MX-5 Miata / Grand Touring. Manual - part 51

Fig. 22: Removing Drive Pinion Component By Tapping Locknut Using Plastic Hammer 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

REAR BEARING DISASSEMBLY NOTE 

1. Remove the rear bearing using the SST and a press. 

CAUTION:



The drive pinion could be damaged if it falls off. Support the drive 
pinion with your hand when removing the rear bearing.  

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Differential - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 23: Removing Rear Bearing Using SST & Press 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

FRONT BEARING OUTER RACE, REAR BEARING OUTER RACE DISASSEMBLY NOTE 

1. Remove the bearing outer race by lightly tapping the edge of the bearing outer race using a flathead 

screwdriver. 

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Differential - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 24: Removing Bearing Outer Race By Lightly Tapping Edge Of Bearing Outer Race Using 
Flathead Screwdriver 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

REAR DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY 

1. Assemble in the order indicated in Fig. 25 . 

WARNING:



The engine stand is equipped with a self-lock mechanism, however, 
if the rear differential is tilted, the self-lock mechanism could 
become inoperative. If the rear differential unexpectedly rotates, it 
could cause injury, therefore do not maintain the rear differential 
tilted. When turning the rear differential, grasp the rotation handle 
firmly.  

NOTE:



Clean away the old silicone sealant before applying the new silicone 
sealant.  



Install the rear cover within 10 min after applying the silicone sealant.  



Allow the sealant to set at least 30 min or more after installation before 
filling the differential with differential oil.  

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Differential - MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 25: Identifying Rear Differential Assembly Components (With Torque Specifications) 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

WASHER ASSEMBLY NOTE 

1. Assemble the side gear, thrust washer, pinion gear, and the pinion shaft to the gear case.  

2. Install the dial gauge with the measuring probe of the dial gauge attached perpendicularly to the end of 

 

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring 

2008 DRIVELINE/AXLES Differential - MX-5 Miata