Turbo before clutch?
 

I have a fm no electronics turbo kit, a bipes acu, voodoo box, 305cc injecors, and a 97 miata siting around all waiting to get jiggy with each other.

I just have to get a leakdown test done to figure out why my car is burning so much oil, and then find somewhere to install my clutch for a reasonable price.

But I am itching to put the turbo on! If I get the leakdown test done tomorrow the I could probably do the kit over the weekend (hopefully) but the new clutch wouldn't be on. Is it that bad to do the turbo before the clutch? My old one is worn but doesn't slip once it is fully engaged... usually.

Should I just be safe and get the clutch on before the turbo, or get the leakdown test and go turbo as soon as I can?

If you are itch'n go a head and install. Just don't go drag racing.

Smart answer would be leakdown before turbo at least. But having it sit there doesnt make it any easier on you I am sure.

If you put it all together now and need a clutch you will have to be able to get in there to seperate the trans from motor...not sure how hard it is with downpipe in the way. Sure it would be easier without it installed.

Well I have the clutch as well, but after much deliberation I feel that it will be too much of a pain in the ass to do it on my own without a lift or airtools. So I think I'll get a shop to do it. Will the downpipe be a problem for a shop?

Well I was thinking if you are doing it yourself then do the clutch while the exhaust is out of the way and then mount the turbo manifold and downpipe.

Hmm, but then that would lengthen the install time considerably, and keep in mind that I have a weekend to do this which I think is reasonable for a turbo install, but doing a clutch too might be pushing it. Plus from what I've heard doing a clutch without a lift and the correct tools is a major pita.

Just ride with that clutch until you have to change it.


That's what I'm doing, I just don't drive it where it will suck to be stranded.

with the FM design I doubt a shop would have a problem removing it if needed.