OPERATION
Under normal driving conditions, the anti-lock brake system functions as a standard brake system. When
vehicle speed reaches 3.8 MPH, the ABS system will diagnose pump motor by briefly operating motor. Pump
motor operation may be heard inside vehicle.
The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controls ABS by detecting speed sensor signals and activating solenoid
valve in hydraulic unit. Control unit also controls pump motor and self-diagnostic function. If a problem in the
ABS system is detected, ABS system functions as a conventional brake system. The ANTI-LOCK brake
warning light will also come on.
With detection of wheel lock-up, short pedal pulsations, occurring in rapid succession, will be felt in brake
pedal and steering wheel. Vehicle body may also vibrate slightly. These conditions are normal. Pedal pulsation
will continue until there is no longer a need for anti-lock function or until vehicle is stopped.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
NEVER open a bleeder valve or loosen a hydraulic line while ABS is pressurized.
NEVER disconnect or reconnect any electrical connectors while ignition is on. Damage to ABS control
unit may result.
DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate article.
Only use specially designed brake hoses/lines on ABS-equipped vehicles.
DO NOT tap on speed sensor components (sensor, sensor rings). Speed rings must be pressed, NOT
hammered into hubs. Striking these components can cause demagnetization or a loss of polarization,
affecting the accuracy of the speed signal returning to the ABS control unit.
DO NOT mix tire sizes. Increasing the width, as long as tires remain close to the original diameter, is
acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the
same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
DO NOT contaminate speed sensor components with grease. Only use recommended anti-corrosion
coating.
When speed sensor components have been removed, ALWAYS check sensor-to-ring air gaps when
applicable. These specifications can be found in each appropriate article.
ONLY use recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
When installing transmitting devices (CB's, telephones, etc.) on ABS-equipped vehicles, DO NOT locate
the antenna near the ABS control unit (or any control unit).
Disconnect all on-board computers, when using electric welding equipment. CAUTION: See ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS below.
WARNING:Refer to appropriate Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) article for description,
operation, depressurizing, testing, system bleeding, trouble shooting and
system service. Failure to depressurize ABS could lead to physical injury.
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 1988-91 BRAKES Mazda Anti-Lock Brake System
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DO NOT expose the ABS control unit to prolonged periods of high heat (185°F/85°C for 2 hours is
generally considered a maximum limit).
BLEEDING BRAKE SYSTEM
For ABS hydraulic unit bleeding, see HYDRAULIC UNIT under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
BRAKE LINE BLEEDING SEQUENCE
(1)
DIAGNOSIS
ABS system can only be diagnosed using ABS Tester (0000-42-0010). See Fig. 13 . An Adapter Harness
(49N0-66-001) is also required to test Miata ABS system. ABS tester cannot diagnose ABS control unit. If a
malfunction is detected in ABS and all other components in brake system are okay, replace ABS control unit.
If ABS tester is unavailable, test each component of ABS. See test procedures under TESTING. If all ABS
components test okay, replace control unit with a known good unit, and retest system for correct operation.
PRE-DIAGNOSIS INSPECTION
Perform a visual inspection of ABS components that could cause anti-lock problem. Visual inspection may help
identify cause of simple problem.
DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE WITH ABS TESTER
ABS tester uses one display window and 2 switches for reading information from unit. Become thoroughly
familiar with ABS tester displays and operation before proceeding. See Fig. 13
. To diagnose ABS system, go
to TESTING SEQUENCE charts under DIAGNOSING ABS SYSTEM. When diagnosing ABS system,
complete tests in order given under TESTING SEQUENCE. If ABS tester does not operate, check fuses,
ignition switch and ignition circuit.
TESTING
NOTE: See BRAKE BLEEDING article in the BRAKES Section.
ApplicationSequence
Miata & 929Longest Line First
RX7RR, LR, RF, LF
(1)If rear caliper has not been disassembled, open upper bleed valve only.
NOTE: Before testing ABS components, ensure battery and charging system are
functioning properly. To prevent damage to ABS control unit connector, use
very thin pins when probing connector.
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 1988-91 BRAKES Mazda Anti-Lock Brake System
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WHEEL SPEED SENSOR ROTORS
Inspection
Perform a comprehensive visual inspection of sensor rotor. If any damage is noted, replace sensor rotor. Sensor
rotors are attached to wheel hubs.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
HYDRAULIC UNIT
Removal
Remove hydraulic lines from unit. Disconnect hydraulic unit connectors. Remove nuts securing unit. Remove
hydraulic unit.
Bleeding Hydraulic Unit
Before bleeding hydraulic unit, bleed brake system in appropriate sequence. See BRAKE LINE BLEEDING
SEQUENCE TABLE under BLEEDING BRAKE SYSTEM. Bleed hydraulic unit by opening bleeder screw on
unit. See Fig. 12
.
Installation
To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten mounting bolts to specification. See TORQUE
ApplicationConnector Terminals (1)
Miata
Left Front"K" & "G"
Left Rear"O" & "Q"
Right Front"U" & "F"
Right Rear"L" & "P"
RX7
Left Front"D" & "F"
Left Rear"H" & "I"
Right Front"U" & "W"
Right Rear"X" & "Z"
929
Left Front"K" & "G"
Left Rear"O" & "Q"
Right Front"J" & "F"
Right Rear"L" & "P"
(1)See Fig. 4 or Fig. 5 to identify ABS control unit terminals.
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 1988-91 BRAKES Mazda Anti-Lock Brake System
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BRAKE SYSTEM
1991 BRAKES Mazda Brake System
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
All models use hydraulic-operated brake system with a tandem master cylinder and a power brake unit.
BRAKE SYSTEM BLEEDING
BRAKE LINE BLEEDING SEQUENCE
ADJUSTMENTS
MASTER CYLINDER PUSH ROD (NAVAJO)
1. Remove master cylinder to gain access to push rod. To check screw adjustment, fabricate a gauge. See
Fig. 1
. NOTE: For information on anti-lock brake systems, see appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE
SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
NOTE: See BRAKE BLEEDING article in the BRAKES Section.
ApplicationSequence
Protege & 323RR, LR, LF, RF
RX7 (1) RR, LR, RF, LF
All OthersLongest Line First
(1)If rear caliper has not been disassembled, open upper bleed valve only.
NOTE: Push rod has an adjustment screw to maintain correct distance between
booster push rod and master cylinder piston. If push rod is adjusted too long, it
prevents master cylinder piston from completely releasing hydraulic pressure,
causing brakes to drag. If push rod is adjusted too short, it causes excessive
pedal travel and an undesirable clunk in booster area.
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1991 BRAKES Mazda Brake System
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1991 BRAKES Mazda Brake System
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LUBRICATION
CAPACITY
POWER STEERING FLUID CAPACITY
FLUID TYPE
Dexron-II or M-III are recommended for all vehicles.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check fluid level with engine off. Remove fluid level gauge on oil pump or reservoir. Check fluid level. Fluid
should be between "L" and "H" marks on level gauge dipstick. If fluid level is low, fill through gauge tube.
Recheck fluid level. DO NOT overfill.
HYDRAULIC FLUID BLEEDING
1. Raise and support front of vehicle. With ignition off, turn steering wheel lock-to-lock several times. Add
fluid as necessary. Repeat procedure until fluid level no longer decreases.
2. Start engine and let idle. Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock 5 times. Check fluid level. Add fluid as
necessary. Continue procedure until fluid is clear of air bubbles and does not decrease in level.
ADJUSTMENTS
POWER STEERING BELT ADJUSTMENT
POWER STEERING BELT DEFLECTION
(1)
(1)Specifications are measured at 1000-1500 RPM, with fluid temperature at 122-140°F (50-60°C).
ApplicationQts. (L)
Miata, MPV & 929.95 (.90)
MX-6 & 626
Electronc Controlled Power Steering (ECPS)1.06 (1.0)
Engine Speed (Sensing) Power Steering (ESPS).95 (.90)
Protege & 323.63 (.60)
RX7.85 (.80)
NOTE: On-vehicle adjustment procedures are not available from manufacturer.
ApplicationIn. (mm)
Miata, Protege & 323
New Belt.31-.35 (7.8-8.9)
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STEERING GEAR - POWER RACK & PINION 1991 STEERING Mazda - Power Rack & Pinion
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