Hi guys - I finally tracked down a sub 80k 5 speed from a '79 and wanted to get some coaching before I went to install it.

New clutch obviously, assuming new throw-out bearing and slave and rear seal? Anything else?





Thanks!

 

I am not sure for SA trannys, but I'd check out the shift linkage/housing and make sure everything looks good in there. Replace shifter bushings and shifter spring. in FB tranny shifter spring can only be replaced when tranny is out of car.

Maybe remove your current shifter and bolt it up to this tranny and make sure everything feels good?

Also don't forget pilot bearing and seal, it may be tricky to remove in situ from your crank.

Transmission mount?

New fluid!

Search around there are some good transmission threads here.

 

Rear main seal

 

Thanks guys.

I will search for post threads, but any specific real seal vendor or just ring up my local Mazda dealer? Any tips or tricks to getting it out and replacing properly?

Thanks!

 

Inspect the surface of your flywheel closely to see if it needs to be resurfaced. If it does don't neglect this as you can end up with a shudder when engaging the clutch, a bummer after investing all the work of installing the clutch and transmission.

 

Good reminder, thanks.

 

Rock Auto has some good parts.

 

Don't forget a new pilot bearing and seal. You may want to look into getting a new trans mount and don't forget the exhaust gaskets. I'd also replace the slave cylinder hose as well as the clutch master cylinder.

 

Don't bother changing the pilot bearing unless it has gone bad and needs to be changed. Just install a new pilot seal and grease up the bearing properly. It can easily outlast the clutch.

 

Hmmm, don't mean throwout bearing? While your in there I would say change that
pilot bearing or you will be pulling the tranny down the road when it decides to fail.

 

It is ok to change the throwout bearing. But I've come across too many trans input shafts damaged from botched pilot bearing installs or lack of grease, lack of seal etc. Why change the pilot bearing if it hasn't gone bad? Unless you have the actual tool for it or are experienced enough to competently get the old one out through other means (dremel grinding).

 

Use the Mazda service tool ONLY for pilot bearing removal!! Other means are dangerous and are time consuming. The Mazda tool makes quick work of removing the pilot bearing and seal. Honestly one of the best tool investments that I have ever made. Its paid for itself time and time again.

 

Oh, and make sure you clean the rust off of that input shaft on the new trans. You can even apply a thin layer of grease on input shaft where the pilot bearing's needles make contact with the input shaft. If you decide not to replace the pilot bearing, make sure you check the pilot bearing and re-grease it if its good.