Miata clutch replacement question

[dinoracer]

Hoping to replace the clutch next weekend, question for those who have

Will it be necessary to remove the exhaust header (raceland copy of a racing beat style) from the engine to drop the tranny? It looks like there might be enough room there, but wondering if anyone's actually done one with the header untouched?

thanks Tom

[breakaway500]

I did one on a '95 with a Raceland header and didn't have to remove the header. Once unbolted and slid back off the motor,I had to rotate the trans just a bit to get full disengagement of the imput shaft/clutch hub and down it comes. Not difficult to do. My 2004 Mazdaspeed Miata's 5 speed comes out about the same way with its 3" header pipe in place. (it's actually tighter than the Raceland)

[jeffw]

Check the mazdaracers forum for tips. I think you can do it w/o removing the header or PPF.

[jeffw]

Need a lift to do it? I may need to do a RMS soon--would trade lift and learning for some hands then...

[962porsche]

I have done some with after market headers I have not removed them . it's just like Mark stated in all the cases .
you also don't need a lift to do them but it does make life much easier . i've done more jobs on my back so I know just how a prostitute feels .

[dinoracer]

Thanks Guys, thought it might work out but never hurts to check with those that have done it

Jeff, Appreciate the offer, I think I'm all set but will be in touch. Happy to trade lift time for labor.

[paultg]

Let me know if you need help. I'm sort of good at it. :p

[MiataSteve]

Me too...love to get my hands grimy!

[dinoracer]

So, thanks to Steve, Paul, of course Scott for all the help. And Troy for the cameo supervision appearance.

And to answer the question, the tranny will come out with the back of the PPF attached and the raceland header in place, but there was a lot of prying, banging, twisting and turning involved. Took the header out before sliding the tranny back in easy as pie.

Tom

[MiataSteve]

No fingers were lost in the replacement of Tom's clutch....

[StephanAlfa]

I wanna help too ... I'll bring the sledgehammer!