Who's running a Miata trans?

GregFarz78 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 08:53 AM

Trying to get some input from owners that did this swap the pros and cons. I've done some research but still have questions.

I'm running stock wheels/tires will this work? what happens when I upgrade to 17s/18s? I saw something about running smaller tires but didn't say why.

I need the trans from a 1.8L miata right b/c it looks like there are 2 different types of 5 speeds?

This truck is my work horse so I might have to haul a few hundred pounds, will the trans take it?

Pantharen · #2 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GregFarz78

I need the trans from a 1.8L miata right b/c it looks like there are 2 different types of 5 speeds?

This truck is my work horse so I might have to haul a few hundred pounds, will the trans take it?

I can say for sure. But I doubt a car transmission will be geared to haul weight. I would be, that you would burn out the tramission trying to haul any type of load with a Miata transmission.

Ohm · #3 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 10:03 AM

The main reason for the miata trans is the better 1st-3rd gearing, K6 started the whole miata trend when he put one in his because he is running the 9lb Fidanza aluminum flywheel. I picked up a trans out of a 1990 Miata last Thursday for that same reason. In general for everyday driving the trucks transmission is useless until you get to 3rd gear. I am a little concerned about hauling loads with the miata trans, I picked up another ton of wood pellets for our stove last Friday and the low 1st and 2nd gears in the truck trans are good for that but I think I am producing enough torque and the 1985 RX-7 third member that I am putting in is a little lower geared so hopefully that well counter the higher gearing in the miata trans.

PearBear2k10 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 10:19 AM

I thinking about doing this swap 5th gear is also geared for more speed than the truck transmission right.

GregFarz78 · #5 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 12:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pantharen

I can say for sure. But I doubt a car transmission will be geared to haul weight. I would be, that you would burn out the tramission trying to haul any type of load with a Miata transmission.

It wouldn't be that often maybe 2-3 times a year if I had to pick up a pile of wood or a load of dirt something like that. I won't be driving this thing like a race car either

R90Baron · #6 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 01:59 PM

I've got the Miata. I carry my motorcycle everywhere. It's 500 pounds, plus the luggage for a 1 to 2 month stay somewhere. Running 14" wheels and having no problems- except that hiccup with reverse in January.

andymccauley · #7 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 02:21 PM

isnt there a 6spd in the miatas too? but it wont hook up to the F2 block will it?

GregFarz78 · #8 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 03:12 PM

6spd is in the newer miatas 01+ I believe don't know that those will work....well that and a used one will still run you a pretty penny

PearBear2k10 · #9 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 05:08 PM

that would be sweet but i doubt it will work it would probably have the newer style bolt pattern

Pantharen · #10 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 11:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GregFarz78

It wouldn't be that often maybe 2-3 times a year if I had to pick up a pile of wood or a load of dirt something like that. I won't be driving this thing like a race car either

only takes one bad day to have your entire ride go up in a cloud of smoke. :sigh: