Alright guys it looks as if I'll have a ton more room and lose a few lbs if I take out my a/c compresor. My ? to the gurus here is what do I need in place of the compressor? An idler of just a belt from a non a/c car? I tried searching ac removal and got all kinds of non-related threads. Thanks ahead of time.

 

1: Shorter belt. Any auto parts store can sell you this, just ask for a belt for a Miata with P/S but without A/C. They're common.

2: A slightly shorter bolt to replace the one that's currently going front-to-back through the front of the compressor mounting bracket (the piece made from cast lead). This bolt also happens to hold the oil pump on, and a few of us (myself included) learned by experience what happens when you leave it off. Can't remember the length, size, or pitch. Just measure the old one and buy a new one that's shorter by the thickness of the bracket.

 

bolt size is M8x1.25x45mm

 

^ this.

Also, if you can't find a 45mm bolt readily, a 50mm bolt works just fine with a washer or two. They sell M8x1.25x50 in two packs at most auto parts stores.

 

Thanks a bunch guys! I love this site! I read about that bolt, but forgot about it. Looks like I'll be pulling the compressor tonight.