Washer Assembly Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Assemble the side gear, thrust washer, pinion gear, and the pinion shaft to the gear case.
Install the dial gauge with the measuring probe of the dial gauge attached perpendicularly to the end of one of the pinion gear teeth.

Fig 1: Locating Dial Gauge Attached To Pinion Gear Teeth

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fix either one of the side gears.
Move the pinion gear and measure the backlash at the pinion gear top.
- If it is not within the specification, adjust by choosing the proper washer.

Standard

0.03-0.15 mm (0.001-0.005 in) (MT)

0.1 mm (0.004 in) or less (AT)

Washers (MT)

Washers (AT)

Fig 2: Washer Identification (MT)

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Fig 3: Washer Identification (A/T)

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.