Speedo Drive Questions
 

I'm trying to figure out what parts I need to make this swap work, but basically on my '95 I'm installing a 6-speed transmission and a set of 3.636 gears. I can get the 3.636 mechanical speedo drive replacement from MiataRoadster. I've searched and read the few threads on the subject on here, I just want to confirm the following:

1. I can swap over the speedo drive setup from my 5-speed transmission to the 6-speed transmission. Because of this, would it just be a matter of taking the 4.10 speedo drive out and replacing it with the drive from MiataRoadster?

2. I need to continue to use the NB neutral switch and expect to hardwire it and the reverse switch.

3. Find a 6-speed shifter assembly (duh).

Anything else? Or any other methods of reaching my goal that I'm not aware of?

Sorry that I have no answers to your questions but, I'm really interested in some of the potential replies.

I've been going around with a set of 3.63 gears on a 5 speed with 16" wheels and the differences I see on my speedometer are ridiculous.

I have installed a 5 speed mechanical drive into a 6 speed that had an electric drive and noticed no problems. Should be fine as long as it matches the rear ratio.

Since I take it you're staying with the 5-speed, just contact Bill at MiataRoadster.com and order the Mechanical Speedo Drive seen here: MiataRoadster: Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development parts When I emailed him about it, he said he'd sell it separately. Then install. :)
Off topic - How do you like those gears and the 5-speed?

That's exactly what I wanted to hear. I'll just order the 3.636 speedo drive as well and swap everything out. Thanks!

I forgot all about the other little things involved. Im about to need a 6 speed myself, since Im hearing some wicked noises from my trans. I planned to do the MiataRoadster thing too, but forgot about the 2 switches and shifter assembly (if it doesnt come with whatever 6 speed I get). Anything different about the neutral switch and reverse switch between models? Id guess not, except maybe plugs.

PS, who ever designed the wiring for the 2 switches on top of the trans on the NA's need their asses kicked. Wiring on mine is almost too short, and its nearly impossible to get to and see at the same time. One of the plugs can only be done with one hand, which is alot of fun when those are the last things to hook up before you get your car running after a rebuild, and your laying in dirt on your back with 2'' of room between your face and the floor of the car... :vash: Sorry for the slight off topic.

lol I agree completely!

I saw in one thread that the neutral switch for the NA and NB are completely different assemblies, so you can only use the one that belongs with the specific transmission. The reverse switch I'm not so sure about. It'll be a matter of comparing, but I also read that the reverse switch had to be hardwired, so that leads me to believe that you keep the NB switch as well. :dunno:

1. yes--1 bolt, easy

2. yes, you will wire the neutral and reverse switches. recommend using bullet or spade quick disconnects. 2 wires each, easy.

3. yes

no.

get me access to comp so I can get into the parts catalogs and I will give you all the part numbers to make a 3.6 mechanical drive assembly.