SpikeyD

So... has anyone tried the oil filter sandwich plate from Good-win (Part Number: 61-0408) on an NB without a relocation kit? I have an MSM, installed this plate over the weekend - except not so much installed as "put it on there and realized the filter won't fit." I put the extension over the stock stud, and now the filter (stock filter size) will not fit. It interferes with the block where the alternator mounts, as well as an air hose. It's supposed to fit all miatas 1990-2005. Am I just an idiot?

julio

iTrader: (4)

MSM oil cooler/warmer is substantially thicker than the normal NB one. They probably didn't figure on that. Probably works with the normal NB part. I'm in the same boat with my MSM build. I was just test fitting stuff the other day. I was just going to do the oil filter relocation I think.

SpikeyD

Thanks Julio! Seems like this isn't as bad as I thought, so hopefully it helps you too. Got a reply (fairly quickly, which I appreciate) from Good-win:

Sounds like you are hitting the intake manifold brace, which attaches to the intake manifold and to the engine block just above the oil pan. There are two bolts attaching it to the manifold which are removed from above, and one bolt at the bottom attaching it to the side of the block. Take it off, install the plate and filter and then you can reinstall the brace. Using a filter longer than the OEM size may compound the issue of fitment. The hose in the way is probably the drain hose from the oil catch can back to the oil pan. You should be able to just push it over to clear the filter. If the brace becomes an issue with oil changes you can leave it off the car.

And I eventually found a thread on miata.net that paints a very similar picture:
https://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=549622

I'll try this tonight. Sounds like folks leave the manifold brace off without issue. Not sure if I'll re-install or not - sounds easy, and I only need to change my oil once a year before each AX season.

julio

iTrader: (4)

Now that you mention it removing the brace to swap filters isn't a bad idea as little as I drive the car. I'm a one oil change a year guy. No reason to add all the extra plumbing/leak points for a remote filter. I think I will go that route too now. Thanks!!!! I think I've seen other people grind some of the brace off for clearance before too.