MX-5 Prop - Gearbox

[Chris_]

Hey guys just a quick question.

Has anyone out there got a Mazda Mx5 gearbox laying around?
Preferably MK1 Jobbie?

If so could you tell me what the deal is with the prop shaft connection? ie bolted flange or splined shaft?

I'm guessing splined shaft, if so, could you please tell me the size and number of splines?

Thanks very much

Chris

[Murray Ralls]

Hi Chris
I have an early MX5 engine & gearbox for my project. I can't get the vernier beyond the seal but it looks like 24mm OD. Thereare 22 teeth. Good to know someone else with the same idea.
Regards
Murray

[Chris_]

Thank you very much.
Just to be really awkward, you dont know how long the setup is do ya?
And are you using a sierra diff or the mazda one?
I like the idea of the neat modern mazda setup and rear discs personally.

At the moment i'm hoping to put an MX5 engine into my old Suzuki jeep. But when i eventually start on the roadster it will be mazda powered.

Cheers
Chris

[Murray Ralls]

What setup, the spline length? Yes I am using the Sierra diff & hubs etc. I have the rear end off a Cosworth which have discs. I didn't want to deviate off the designed suspension layout.
Regards
M

[Chris_]

Engine and box length but just found it to be about 55 inches. 5 inches longer than a pinto and type 9 setup.

Ok, last dumb question - how are you joining mazda gearbox to sierra diff? I know they both have a bolted flange in the prop but i'm guessing they wont match up? Are you just welding mazda to ford when you shorten the prop?

Cheers
Chris

[mark]

If you get a prop made by one of the specialist companies they will make it with whatever ends you need, fully balanced and with a power rating

Mine arrived from dunning and fairbank last week who did a great job with fast delivery

Its been talked about before if its best to buy a prop from a specialist or make one of your own, after looking at both sides of the argument i personally think a proffesionally made prop is the way to go

When you think there is only a thin piece of aluminium between the prop and you so its the last thing you want to let go

[Chris_]

Well in my Suzuki the prop shaft is about 8 inches long so would be home made (goes straight to 4wd transfer box)

In the roadster, and possibly in a friends MK Indy (now he's given up all these silly ford duratec ideas) id get the prop made up obviously as it will need shortening or whatever anyway.

Another dumb question to add to the list:
does the tunnel need widening from book specs to fit the mazda box?

Cheers
And sorry for all the questions.
Chris

[Murray Ralls]

You are way ahead of me Chris. I will probably follow along Mark's path. I will get hold of an MX5 prop shaft & modify to suit a Sierra UJ then get a prop shaft company to weld & balance it. That is if the MX5 shaft is long enough. You are asking too many questions. Be a good boy & get on & eat your vegies.
M