I've been searching all over. I found that the axle nut is size 35mm. Question is, do you need to remove the axle nut to remove the rotors???

I have my car on stands and it looks as though that's the case. Anybody for a quick answer?

 

You need to download and review the FSM. It is stickied in this section and explains how to do this with diagrams.

You don't remove the axle nut to remove rotors....

 

Not required, but you do need to remove one of the insert screws from the front rotor in order to "pop" the back rotor off.

Its a philip type screw, use the impact driver with a hammer (get one at Sears). There is a screw hole in the rear rotor, this is where it fits. Squirt some penetrating oil. The rotor is only attached when the wheel lug nuts are torqued, the axle nut is only removed if you are removing the axle.

Make sure to return the screw back to the front rotor.

Good luck

 

I may be substantially easier to get a appropriately-sized metric screw (M6 or M8x1.25, I think) at Home Depot. Removing the front retaining screws can be incredibly painful. I destroyed two of mine when removing them and many other people report having to drill them out.

 

Rear rotor: Remove the caliper, and then the rotor will come off easy.

Front rotor: Remove the caliper, and then use a impact screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the rotor in place.

 

Harbor Freight impact screw driver ~$6. I've never known about this tool until my brake job. It works, and is awesome.

 

If you don't have an impact screw-driver, a 1/4" drive phillips-bit on a 1/4" ratchet works for me.

BTW: I coat the hubs with anti-seize (and the phillips screw) for easier removal later. Don't get any on the rotor, brake-pads, etc.

:-) neil

 

ratchet + bit does not do what the impact driver does. Its the impact that breaks the rust loose.

 

I can't imagine using a ratchet to break a fastener loose. I tried to use a long breaker bar and bit to remove them but they simply deformed. As you said, an impact is required to give 'em a sharp shock and break them loose. However, even a impact driver is not guaranteed to work - I had to drill out two of my screws because they would not budge. A search will reveal that many people have had similar issues. Replacements screws can be bought for a few bucks.

 

Anti-seize . . .

:-) neil

 

Tell that to the guys at the factory.

 

do you have to order the screws from mazda, i just put on new rotors today, there werent any screws on the original rotors.

 

These screws are pretty generic. Just look at the Help! section in your local auto store for Mazda/Ford... brake retaining screws. They are not actually necessary, though.