barron64

Been searching for a while but still can't find the answer...I have a 90 model with the small 1.6 ldiff. Just picked up a 1.8l, 4.1:1 Torsen diff out of a 96 model with intentions of piecing together everything I need for a complete diff swap. I am looking for a 1.8l diff housing and I know the 94-97 will work with what I am trying to do. Question is will a 99-05 differential housing work with my 96 diff and then bolt into my 90 model? Or, am I limited to using the housings from the 94-97 model years?

UrbanSoot

iTrader: (24)

All 1.8L housings are the same. There might be small differences but nothing that will prevent you from using any 1.8L diff component.

barron64

Thanks for the reply. I found an RX-7 rear housing for $100...Is there any advantage or disadvantage in using one of these over a std 1.8 housing?

Savington

iTrader: (31)

Yes, the N/A Rx7 housing is stronger (no break-point for crash testing). You will need to use Miata bushings, though.

barron64

Thanks...Will the bushings out of the 1.6 diff housing work or will I need to source some 1.8 bushings?

Savington

iTrader: (31)

The odds of you getting them out without damaging them is about zero. Pick up some Energy Suspension polyurethane diff bushings.

Solomon

iTrader: (2)

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I believe the bushings for the 1.6 and 1.8 are the same. You can pick some up here:

http://949racing.com/diff-mount-bushings-miata.aspx

UrbanSoot

iTrader: (24)

Diff bushings should be the same between '90-'05.