MX-5 Miata Mazdaspeed L4-1.8L DOHC Turbo (2004)
1. Apply grease to the inner race of the upper bearing and install it to the pinion shaft.
2. Apply grease to the teeth of the pinion shaft.
3. Turn the flat section of the rack toward the pinion, and insert the pinion.
Rear Cover Assembly Note
1. Apply grease to the outer race of the upper bearing and install it in the gear housing.
2. Install a new oil seal to the rear cover.
3. Apply sealant to the threads of the rear cover and install it into the gear housing.
4. Rotate the pinion to the left and right a few times to seat the bearing.
5. Tighten the rear cover so that the starting torque of the pinion is 2.0 - 3.4 Nm (20 - 35 kgf-cm, 18 - 30 inch lbs.) (Pull scale reading: 20 - 34 N
(2.0 - 3.5 kgf, 4.5 - 7.7 lbs.)) as inspected using the SST and a pull scale.
6. Tighten the locknut. Do not allow the rear cover to turn.
Tightening torque 50 - 68 Nm (5.0 - 7.0 kgf-m, 37 - 50 ft. lbs.)
Adjusting Cover Assembly Note
1. Carefully move the rack so that the pinion is set to the center (neutral position) of the rack gear as shown.
