MX5.3

I have fallen headlong into an L33 and Miata build. I have the long block and the car now, so I'm committed.

What I want to do is run a T5. I am thinking a Chevy "621" bellhousing, a 3rd gen F-body T5, an automatic flex plate and a twin disc setup. Am I missing anything?

Really, my question is, does anybody, in any kit, offer a T5 crossmember that corrects for the 17deg. off clocked mount on the F-body T5? I thought I saw a picture of one somewhere. If it's tied into chassis stiffeners, that's even better.

I plan on using the rearward (or standard) V8R subframe, and probably the Monster Miata 7.5 diff hangers.

Also, does anybody know about where this will put the shifter?

cvx_20

An automatic flex plate???

That doesn't sound right.

Mike

MX5.3

I could see how it doesn't, but with the multiple disc setups they don't require a conventional flywheel as they contain their own in the unit. You only need a ring gear for the starter. The automatic flexplate serves that purpose with a fraction of the rotating weight.

chpmnsws6

The TD setups are pretty sweet. We have a company locally building 12 pound clutches for 2.3's which hold a TON of power. They also use a flexplate.

cvx_20

Gotcha. I should have googled it before I responded.

Never too old to learn, eh.

Mike

MX5.3

That's what we are all here for, right? To learn, and contribute when we can.

So..........anybody know where the T5 crossmember is? I know I have seen it. It goes from uni-body rail to uni-body rail, and has a little crook in it to account for the 17degree mount.

MRM331

When you go to buy the Monster Miata rear end set-up ask Martin if his trans mount will work. It works with T5's used in Mustangs.

-Jason

MX5.3

Now, see, why didn't I think of that?

I know the Ford T5 doesn't have the offset mount that the F-bodies do, but if it's in the right spot, that's most of the battle I guess.

Is Martin's crossmember part of the chassis stiffeners?

tbone heller

His kit does not require frame stiffeners. His cross member attaches directly to the Miata frame rails.

mylesofsmyles

Isn't it wise to reinforce the frame rails, given the additional power & torque of the new setup?

I've been considering the V8RSpec frame rail reinforcement kit w/ T5 x-member, for my build. Seems like killing two birds with one stone.

tbone heller

My Hard Dog hard core bar with the DIY Roadster door bars stiffened up the chassis more than any sheet metal frame covers would.

mylesofsmyles

A fair point...seems Miata guys LOVE their frame rail reinforcements; it's a popular upgrade

You're almost caged, in that car...unfair advantage, lol

charchri4

So MX5.3 did you ever figure out your cross member issue?

Having owned a bunch of Camaros and Firebirds I would start with a 4th gen F body V6, T5 cross brace and just extend it a bit. That's a $5 part in a bone yard and at the exact angle you need.