Calling all SE gurus; Correct oil level in shift turret?

WesternPacific · Postby **WesternPacific** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 9:56 pm

What is the correct oil level for the shift turret in an NBSE? I opened it up today doing a bit of problem solving and couldn't see any oil in there at all. There was some lubricant smeared around the ball, it looked like grease and oil mixed, it seamed dirty.
Is there a visual "full" reference?

Cheers

WesternPacific · Postby **WesternPacific** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 11:34 pm

After a few hours of mad researching what little info I can find on the subject seems to indicate that unlike the earlier gearboxes the SE's turret doesn't hold separate oil. But rather there is a connection between the turret and gbox between which oil can flow. Does that sounds right?

Locutus · Postby **Locutus** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 11:37 pm

Yes, that is correct.

kenson · Postby **kenson** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 11:38 pm

The MX5 6 speeds definitely don't need turret oil. Not sure about the 5 speeds though.
I remember reading a detailed thread about it somewhere but I'm a bit short on time so can't do a good search.

Here's a quick one from the Mazdaspeed forums: http://www.mazda-speed.com/forum2/index.php?topic=16758.0

Draining and filling the gearbox is enough. But! Be careful when undoing the drain bolt!
I have been following this guide for a few years: http://www.miata.net/garage/6mt_fluid/
Careful about the US use of "passenger side" too.

WesternPacific · Postby **WesternPacific** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 11:45 pm

Locutus wrote:Yes, that is correct.

Thanks mate :beer:

WesternPacific · Postby **WesternPacific** » Mon Feb 24, 2014 11:47 pm

kenson wrote:The MX5 6 speeds definitely don't need turret oil. Not sure about the 5 speeds though.
I remember reading a detailed thread about it somewhere but I'm a bit short on time so can't do a good search.

Here's a quick one from the Mazdaspeed forums: http://www.mazda-speed.com/forum2/index.php?topic=16758.0

Draining and filling the gearbox is enough. But! Be careful when undoing the drain bolt!
I have been following this guide for a few years: http://www.miata.net/garage/6mt_fluid/
Careful about the US use of "passenger side" too.

Thanks for the links Kenson, looks like a good reference!

Postby **Okibi** » Tue Feb 25, 2014 12:59 am

One of these is pretty handy for filling the gearbox

http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/online-store/products/Tom-Thumb-Pump-Utility-1-Litre.aspx?pid=284708#Cross

hks_kansei · Postby **hks_kansei** » Tue Feb 25, 2014 10:42 am

#1 rule of any oil change (engine, gearbox, diff, anything)

Open the filling plug/cap/hole FIRST
Then open the drain.

It will make it drain smoother (air can get in the fill hole)
and more importantly, it guarantees that you won't drain the oil and then find the fill plug snaps off leaving you stranded and unable to fill it with oil.

WesternPacific · Postby **WesternPacific** » Tue Feb 25, 2014 3:35 pm

Without starting a sh1tfight... What is the right oil to go with for a club car?
I was reluctant to ask the question because there seems to be a million ideas about this, both informed and otherwise. But for those SE owners who track/club their cars, what do you think? My inclination is to stick to manufacturers recommendations but this car leads a tough life of club events etc so might need something more heavy duty?