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Mazda MX5 NC Gearbox
Robbie 2B - 27/1/21 at 12:10 PM

Hi to all, lock-down modification started with gearbox swap underway.
Due to the location of the Duratec engine being fixed, installing a Mazda MX5 NC (N7) gearbox puts the gear lever location in line with the dash panel. The Mazda MX5 NB gearbox positions the gear lever correctly as the lever is an extra 90 mm away from the bell housing flange. Has anyone changed over the tail part of the gearbox between a NC and NB gearbox or know if it is possible?
Any advice gratefully received.
Robbie


johnH20 - 28/1/21 at 06:45 PM

Cannot help directly but there is a huge amount of info on MX5s online. Try Miata.net (US site). Loads of MX5 conversions done in the US including V8 installations with all sorts of transmissions.


big_wasa - 28/1/21 at 09:01 PM

The tail housing looks different on my Nc/7 box to that on the Nb ?


Robbie 2B - 29/1/21 at 01:13 PM

Thanks for responses.
Well they are compatible, have changed them over the only problem being the the way the reversing light switch is activated. Looks as if a welded nipple is needed on the reverse gear selector activation fork. This is a minor hiccup.
Next is to fabricate so for of gearbox mount, possible modifying the Ford Sierra/Type 9 unit. At least the position of the gear lever will be within 10 mm of the extension unit lever fitted to the Type 9 box.
Will keep you posted if this is the first time it has been done.


trevw - 10/9/22 at 03:25 PM

Hi Robbie, realise this is resurrecting and old thread, and did send a U2U as well, if you happen to be on the site I'm interested in how you got on with this?

Has anyone else done this or something else to combat the short distance from engine to gear lever on the N7 gearbox? I might get away with just bending it but an extra few inches into the car would be better..

Thanks

Trev