Do i need this bracing?

[mathew]

Browsing the threads a few minutes ago and i noticed that on some builds where i can see a rear shot the bracing (see pic attached) isnt there. So do i need to keep the bracing or is it not required? ive used a pic off Alex's latest thread as reference.

[sspogman]

Not 100% on this, but I think I read somewhere that the bracing was only fitted on 1.8L models, and not on 1.6L variants.

I guess like most things you could get rid of it if you wanted to, but I would have thought that the extra weight would be more than offset by the improved handling obtained by keeping it in place.

Hopefully someone else will be along shortly that can give you a more definitive answer.

[red5]

Bracing is only on the 1.8s , due to a bit more torque through the diff.

I had to cut mine off the donor due to the bolts spinning - and got a replacement from MX5 heaven -

I now know that i wont use it as it fouls on the exhaust and chassis so would need trimming down and re drilling anyway - my solution to tie it together is with 2 pieces of 30mm x 4mm aluminum bar that i will run from the 2x tabs on chassis rearwood over the original brace securing bolts on the rear subframe body.

I havnt fixed yet so i cant put any pics up to help.

[mathew]

Thanks for the replys guys. I guess there's no harm in me refurbing it then and deciding later on wether to use it or not

[mathew]

Found another pic that gives me a better idea of the issue. Would i be correct in saying that it would be fine for me to cut off the section thats circled considering that theres no where to actually fit it to?

[squelch]

yes its fine to cut off

the bracing is fitted to 91.5MY onwards MX5's to help stop the bottom of the rear subframe flexing under hard use

Pre 91.5 MY cars dont have the mounting tabs on the subframe to fit it, they are fitted to both 1.6 and 1.8's

[300tt]

I agree, I cut off the forward pieces you have circled in red and just bolted it to the tabs on the Exocet frame. I had a few issues with everything lining up correctly on the tabs, but nothing a few hits with a big hammer wouldn't fix

[Deleted]

i was planning on leaving most of it off, as the two forward mounting holes were attached to the MX5 body and i dont think have any corresponding mounting points on the MEV frame. I was going to cut it up and just use the bar thar connects the left and right sides to begin with as i doubt there woult be much flex between the forward and rearward swing arm mounts as its torsional stress. will keep all the parts just in case im wrong though!!

[Stewart]

I've had mine blasted and coated in case it's used, but if not it'll go on ebay/mx5 forum for £10-15 no doubt as it's nice and clean now