New spindles and uprights - what features are needed?

We're about to embark on a Miata project with a LOT of fabrication. This will be a high powered car with a lot of tire under it. One of the things we're looking at is fabricating new spindles and rear uprights that will accept a modern cartridge style bearing. These parts will eventually make it to production.

Why? The number one reason is to get rid of the failure prone front hub. Number two is to make it easier to put a Ford 8.8 IRS diff in the back.

This will most likely mean a swap to 5x114 bolt pattern.

Is there anything else we should incorporate into the new parts? Raise the centerlines to lower the car? Move the steering arm for more or less Ackerman? Fix any bump steer from lowering?

The NC is 5x114 already. I know it's a pricier platform now but soon the ND will be out and that will push NC prices down faster. If you want to dominate Miata V8s get the drop on FM and beat them to the punch and/or build a better NC V8. Sorry I can't help ya on your questions.

Some guys are already running 285s on them too.

Just raise the whole hub by 1-1.5 in. That will keep the arms in the correct alignment and eliminate bumpsteer for everyone except the draggers on CR.net. How much rubber are you planning on running?

If you do 1" drop spindles, how are you going to fit the control arm inside the wheel?

Why not use a light rear end?

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Originally Posted by mr brg

If you do 1" drop spindles, how are you going to fit the control arm inside the wheel?

Why not use a light rear end?

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The same way he is gonna run tons of rubber...not run a 15" wheel.

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Originally Posted by ray_sir_6

The same way he is gonna run tons of rubber...not run a 15" wheel.

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http://agent57.readyhosting.com/gifparty/ohmaga.gif

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Originally Posted by ray_sir_6

The same way he is gonna run tons of rubber...not run a 15" wheel.

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The specific car we are building this for will run huge wheels. Most likely a 17x10 or a (OMG!) 18x11. Tire height will still be short. But if we ever plan on selling any of these I don't think we can count on everyone running big rims like this.

I would love to run a 17x9 5x114 :(

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Originally Posted by 00MugenS2

I would love to run a 17x9 5x114 :(

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Buy an NC. We run them all day!

NO $$$$

I bought my Miata to save money, not spend more.

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Originally Posted by modernbeat

The specific car we are building this for will run huge wheels. Most likely a 17x10 or a (OMG!) 18x11. Tire height will still be short. But if we ever plan on selling any of these I don't think we can count on everyone running big rims like this.

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I am waiting on my 17x10 to come in...275s all around. Maybe 315 in the rear. I am planning lots of mods to the wheel-wells and fenders.