Spindle Installation

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2004 Mazda B4000, 2004 Mazda B3000, 2004 Mazda B2300, 2003 Mazda B4000, and 2003 Mazda B3000. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Always install the cotter pin into the lower ball joint castellated nut from outboard to inboard, with the fingers bent together at a right angle. Failure to do so will result in damage to the wheel and tire assembly.

Install the lower ball joint.
1. Install the castellated nut.
2. Install a new cotter pin.
  
  Fig 1: Installing Castellated Nut & New Cotter Pin
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the upper ball joint.
1. Install the ball joint into the spindle.
2. Install a new pinch bolt and nut. See Figure .
Remove the coil spring compressor tool or equivalent.
CAUTION: Always install the cotter pin into the tie rod castellated nut from outboard to inboard, with the fingers bent together at a right angle. Failure to do so will result in damage to the wheel and tire assembly.
Install the tie rod castellated nut.
1. Install the castellated nut.
2. Install a new cotter pin.
  
  Fig 2: Installing Tie Rod Castellated Nut
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the front shock absorber and the two lower nuts. See Figure .
Install the upper shock absorber bushing and nut/washer assembly. See Figure .
Install the front disc brake rotor shield. See FRONT BRAKE ROTOR REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
Install the tire and wheel assembly.
Inspect and adjust the front end alignment. See WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS .