Higher gearing

[desmond groves]

Hi all. Can anyone tell me how to get a higher gearing into my 1989 MX5. I
want a higher cruising gear as most of my mileage is done on the open highway?
Desmond Groves

[zorruno]

differential gearing? I believe there are a few different rear ends around
for various models. You can install the miata/mx5 6 speed gearbox, but I
believe the 6 speed final ratio is the same as the 5 speed.

Don't quote me - I am not the best person to answer - googling on miata,
gearbox 6 speed, diff etc should turn up the ratios

zorruno

[jeff]

Off the top of my head I'd say (and in incr. order of
cost):
- taller tyres
- change diff/final ratio from 4.3 to 4.1 or 3.9
- RX7 5th gear swap

The first two will change your speedo accuracy (or
lack of) though.

and check out here as well:
http://www.miataforum.com/cgi-bin/ultim ... ubb=search

cheers,
Jeff

[lou Girardin]

The easiest and probably cheapest way is to fit a 1.8 diff, torsen or open.
You'll need the complete diff and carrier, driveshaft and half shafts. It's a
straight bolt in. with any higher ratio, you'll lose too much accceleration in
a 1.6.
Taller tyres will affect the handling too much. You could go to 16 or 17"
whheels with 50 series tyres, but the cost ends up at more than the diff.
Lou