Pinion Gap Inspection

Pull out the drive pinion with the battery positive voltage connected to terminal S and the starter body grounded.
CAUTION:
- Applying power for more than 10 s can damage the starter. Do not apply power for more than 10 s.
Fig 1: Checking Starter Motor Terminals
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the pinion gap while the drive pinion is extended.
- If not as specified, adjust with an adjustment washer (between drive housing front cover and magnetic switch).
Starter pinion gap

0.5-2.0 mm {0.02-0.07 in}

Fig 2: Identifying Drive Pinion Gap
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.