HELP - Mazda Mk1 and Mk2 Subframes

[R2S]

Hoping someone can answer this one.

I have managed to track down a fabricator of Mk1 replacement tubular front subframe used to fit V6s to the Mk1 (but can be used if retaining the standard engine).

The fabricator has only produced for Mk1s and seems to think the Mk2 subframe is different but this doesn't seem to make sense as the MEV kit says both Mk1 and Mk2 donors can be used.

Anyone know the difference between the two subframes (had a look at the Mazda manuals but its not obvious), if any?

Fabricator has also said they can make some tubular wishbones if i provide mine as templates for jig (I will be making sure the stiffening/cross bar on front uppers allows plenty of clearance (See Shauns Exocet build)).


Will post once i have more details. 

[bauer]

I know of 2 guys here in Oz that have done a full Mk2 into Mk1 transplant. Starting with an empty Mk1 (we call it NA6 or NA8 here) and they took the full "rollerskate" from a crashed Mk2(NB8A and NB8B). Every thing was a direct bolt up including the subframes.

So I dont see any issues with what you are wanting to achieve.

Hope that helps

Stu

[gwnwar]

You can use the subframes.. The control arms are a little different and you will have to use a complete set 2 uppers 2 lowers of same generation mk1 or mk2. don't mix them.. I would use OEM control arms over new tube ones spend the money on something else.. If you ever bend up an OEM one you can find one in less then an hour cheap.. If you are going for a V6 go big and put in a Chevy LS V8..kits made for that or a 5.0 Ford engine.. What are you going to be using car for full race or road/street car. If street and trying to hold cost down build with OEM parts get it on road you can always change later..

Read more: mevowners.proboards.com/thread/4914/help-mazda-mk1-mk2-subframes?page=1&scrollTo=46402#ixzz2stlnkDu0

[hunchfront]

main differences are the steering rack mounts, as mk1 are the same both sides mk2 are not
so you can't fit a mk2 rack onto a mk1 subframe & vise versa

the ARB mounts are diffent on the lower wishbones too

the mk2 subframe has slightly different mounts at the rear but these can be chopped off with ease

from what i've read the mk2 subframe,wishbones, & steering are altered slightly to improve bump steer