Propeller Shaft - Mazda RX-8 2004 Service Highlights

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PROPELLER SHAFT

STRUCTURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03–15–1
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STRUCTURE
• A one-piece, double-jointed propeller shaft has been adopted for all models. For MT vehicles, a lightweight
propeller shaft, with a carbon fiber-reinforced resin pipe*, has been adopted. Due to this, oscillation is
controlled and noise vibration and harshness have been greatly reduced over a wide range.
Additionally, a weight reduction of approx. 3.7 kg {130 oz} has been achieved. (Compared to a two piece, steel-
construction propeller shaft)
• Due to the elimination of crease angle in the universal joint together with an in-line layout when viewed from
any angle for the powertrain (transmission, propeller shaft, and differential), booming noise has been
suppressed, and vibration and harsh noise have been greatly reduced.
A crimped-fixing method has been adopted for the universal joint.
* : Composite materials of an epoxy resin base reinforced with carbon fibers, whose winding angle has been
adjusted, provides unit strength and resilience.
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PROPELLER SHAFT
YOKE
SEAL
CARBON FIBER REINFORCED RESIN
CAUTION LABEL
(POSITION MAY VARY SLIGHTLY FORWARD/REAR)
CHU031525002S01
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CHU0315N002
03–15–1