How to swap your automatic Miata to manual

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the step-by-step process of swapping an automatic transmission in a Mazda Miata to a manual transmission. Whether you're looking to enhance your driving experience or simply prefer the control of a manual transmission, this guide provides the necessary instructions and tips to help you successfully complete the swap.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Gather Tools

• Disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues during the swap.
• Gather the following parts and tools:
  • Manual PPF (Power Plant Frame)
  • Manual pedals (gas, brake, clutch)
  • Clutch master cylinder and clutch slave cylinder
  • 1.8 Driveshaft (if starting with a 1.6)
  • Manual flywheel and clutch
  • SS braided clutch line
  • Fluids for refilling
  • Basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, pliers)
  • Jack and jack stands for safely lifting the car
• Ensure you have a friend to assist with heavy lifting.

Step 2: Remove the Exhaust System

• Begin by lifting the car and securely positioning it on jack stands.
• Spray exhaust bolts with PB Blaster to loosen rusted connections.
• Use a wrench or exhaust hanger pliers to remove the exhaust hangers.
• Remove the exhaust from the vehicle.

Step 3: Remove the Automatic Transmission

• Disconnect the drive shaft:
  • Use a 14mm wrench to remove the bolts securing the drive shaft.
• Remove the PPF:
  • Disconnect wiring clips and bolts holding the PPF in place.
• Access the transmission:
  • Remove the torque converter cover via two 10mm bolts.
  • Disconnect the torque converter from the flex plate.
• Remove the transmission:
  • Disconnect all wiring connectors and the power harness mounted on the transmission.
  • Drain the transmission fluid into a pan to prevent spills.
  • Remove the transmission bolts and carefully lower the transmission from the vehicle.

Step 4: Install the Manual Transmission Components

• Remove the flex plate by unscrewing six 19mm bolts. This is crucial as you will need to replace it with a manual flywheel.
• Install the manual flywheel:
  • Use blue Loctite on the flywheel bolts and tighten them in a star pattern to 71-75 foot-pounds.
• Install the clutch assembly:
  • Center the clutch alignment tool in the pilot bearing and align the pressure plate.
  • Tighten the pressure plate bolts in a star pattern to the specified torque (14-19 foot-pounds).

Step 5: Reinstall the Transmission

• Reinstall the manual transmission:
  • Use a jack to lift the transmission into place.
  • Secure the transmission with bolts as you align it with the engine.
• Reattach the PPF and drive shaft:
  • Install the drive shaft back to the rear of the transmission and tighten the bolts.

Step 6: Install the Manual Pedals

• Remove the automatic pedal assembly:
  • Disconnect the throttle cables and drop the steering column if necessary.
• Install the manual pedal assembly:
  • Slide the new pedals over the steering column and secure them in place.
  • Reattach the brake booster and connect the clutch master cylinder.

Step 7: Finalize the Assembly

• Reconnect all electrical wiring related to the transmission and pedals.
• Reinstall the exhaust system.
• Jump the neutral switch by connecting the appropriate wires under the car (black with white and black with blue).
• Fill the clutch and brake systems with the necessary fluids.

Conclusion

After completing these steps, you should have successfully swapped your automatic Miata to a manual transmission. Make sure to double-check all connections, bolts, and fluid levels before starting the vehicle. Enjoy the enhanced driving experience that comes with your new manual transmission, and consider documenting your process for future reference or helping others in the Miata community.