How To: Perform a CV Axle Replacement on a Mazda Protégé (1990-2000) - PartSource: Automotive, Truck Parts & Accessories

How to Perform a CV Axle Replacement
on a Mazda Protégé (1990-2000)

Some call it a CV joint, a CV axle, or a constant velocity axle, but they all do the same thing: transfer power from the engine to the wheels of the car. It's a clever collection of axle parts that makes it all work, but sometimes it breaks down. The CV boot can become damaged, allowing the grease in the joint to come out. When that happens, you'll hear a metallic clicking noise when you're driving, and eventually the car will stop moving.

CV joint replacement is easier than CV joint repair, and we've got the Mazda Protégé parts, the tools, and expert tips to get you started. Read through the steps below, line up everything you need, and prepare to get your Mazda Protégé rolling smoothly again.

Make Safety Your Top Priority

Every vehicle is different. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, always follow the vehicle's owner's manual.

Safety should be your number one priority. Don't smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or wear a necktie while working on the car. Watch out for hot objects, sharp instruments, hazardous materials and other potential safety hazards in and around your workspace.

Don't work with a Philips when the job calls for a flat. Substituting tools can compromise your safety or your vehicle's performance.

Finally, when the fun turns to frustration, or if the job requires specialized knowledge beyond your capabilities, please do not attempt it yourself. Talk to a Parts Pro or seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or installer. The last thing we want is someone getting hurt.


Removal
	Disconnect the negative battery cable.
	Raise and support vehicle on jack stands.
	Drain the transaxle fluid.
	Lift the lock tab on the axle shaft nut.
	Apply the brakes and remove the axle shaft lock nut.
	Using a puller separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
Depending on the year of vehicle: Remove the stabilizer bar from stabilizer link. Remove stabilizer link from lower control arm. Remove lower control arm ball joint from steering knuckle. Remove the axle’s assembly by hammering on the end of a pry bar placed carefully between the inner cv joint and transaxle, or the intermediate shaft. (depending on what side you are removing) Remove the axle assembly from the hub bearing. Or: Remove lower control arm ball joint bolt and nut. Using a pry bar separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle. Left side: Remove the axle by placing a pry bar between the outer ring and the transaxle. Right side: Separate the axle shaft by hammering on the soft drift inserted between them. Install the transaxle side gear holder into the transaxle. Remove the axle assembly from the hub bearing.
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Installation
	Ensure there is a new circlip on the end of the cv axle.
	Inspect the oils seals, replace if necessary.
	Install axle shaft into transaxle, intermediate shaft, making sure not to cause any damage to the oil seal.
	Install axle shaft into the hub assembly.
	Install the new axle lock nut.
Depending on the year of vehicle: Install the lower control arm ball joint to the steering knuckle. Install the stabilizer bar to the stabilizer link. Install the tie rod end. Connect the negative battery cable Or: Connect the lower control arm to steering knuckle. Install lower control arm ball joint bolt and nut. Install the tie rod end. Connect the negative battery cable.
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See you local PartSource for FREE print out instructions including specified torque specs, and figures.
And also year specific instructions.

How to Perform a CV Axle Replacementon a Mazda Protégé (1990-2000)

How to Perform a CV Axle Replacement
on a Mazda Protégé (1990-2000)