2008 Mazda 6 s Sport, 4D Hatchback, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Differential Side Bearing Preload Adjustment

NOTE:
  • Adjust the differential side bearing preload by measuring clearance L between the transaxle case and the differential side bearing outer race, and selecting a differential side bearing adjustment shim.
  • Calculate dimension L for the adjustment shim thickness as defined below to adjust the differential side bearing preload to standard value.
    Fig 1: Measuring Clearance L
    G01904326Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Standard Value 

  1. 0.15-0.21 mm {0.0059-0.0083 in} 

Dimension L = (L1 - L2) + Preload 

  1. L: Adjustment Shim Thickness 
  2. L1: Transaxle Case Contact Face And Adjustment Shim Installation Surface Dimension 
  3. L2: Clutch Housing Contact Face And Differential Side Bearing Contact Face Dimension 

Fig 2: Available Adjustment Shim Thicknesses
G01904327Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  1. Measure dimension L1 between the clutch housing installation surface of the transaxle case and the adjustment shim installation surface using a depth gauge and straight edge.
  2. Install the outer race to the ring gear side of the differential side bearing and, keeping the outer race level, lightly push it in and rotate the final gear 5 times or more.
    Fig 3: Measuring Dimension L1
    G01904328Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  3. Verify dimension L2 between the differential side bearing outer race and the transaxle case installation surface of the clutch housing using a depth gauge and straight edge.
    Fig 4: Measuring Dimension L2
    G01904329Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  4. NOTE:
    • Select up to 2 adjustment shims.
  5. Install selected adjustment shim, and install the differential side bearing outer race using the SSTs  .
Fig 5: Installing Differential Side Bearing Outer Race
G01904330Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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