Q & A's
SB5 SELF-BUILD MODULAR KIT Q&A's
Why Use a Mazda MX5 as a Donor Vehicle?
The MX5 was always a light and nimble affordable sports cars. It's rear wheel drive configuration makes it ideal to use in our Raptor sports cars.
The used car market for the MX5 and Miata (imported version) is flooded with various specs to suit any budget. MOT failures or cars that are unwanted are now available to buy for less than £600 making them a genuinely affordable donor option.
Which MX5 Parts can I use to build my SB5 Raptor Kit?
The Raptor has been designed in such a way that nearly 90% of the MX5 parts from the donor vehicle can be recycled and bolted straight on to the Raptor chassis. These include the following:
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Engine and
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Engine loom
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Gearbox
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Upper Steering Column
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Rear Differential and driveshafts
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Front and rear suspension hubs and brakes
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Fuel pump
How do I start my self build Raptor?
Your first decision will be to work out which chassis you need. Your options are SB-UHP1 chassis or you can upgrade to our UHP-2 chassis.
More information is available here:
The next decision is the type of roll cage you need. We have numerous options. Some will allow you to fit a windscreen if that's an option you'd like whilst others are tailored to suit motorsport events.
More information is available here:
Then you'll need to decide on your chassis powder coat colour. It's a good idea to keep in mind the body colour scheme you want to go for as the contrast between the bodywork and the chassis can give you stunning results.
More information is available here:
Are you confident with each stage of the build or would you like our Raptor technicians to carry out some elements of your Raptor self build before you take delivery.
More information is available here:
What parts do i need for my Raptor self build ?
ENGINE
The 1600cc /1800 and 1800 VVT engine fit into our chassis. The Mazda MX5 ECU and loom can be used however for neatness and simplicity we use a standalone ECU. We have numerous engine upgrade options which are listed below.
GEARBOX & PROPSHAFT
Both the 5 and 6 speed gearbox fit with minimal modifications to the outer casing of our chassis. The propshaft needs to be shortened but this is something that we can do for you.
DIFFERENTIAL
Both the 5 and 6 speed diffs will fit. However we do offer diff casing with additional bracing for high powered engines. This is sold on an exchange basis.
STEERING COLUMN & STEERING RACK
The upper steering column is retained ,however the lower section is a Dedicated Raptor part. The steering rack is a dedicated Raptor parts along with the front upper and lower ball joints and track rod ends.
SUSPENSION, WISHBONES & WHEELS
The Raptor has a fully independent push rods suspension all these are unique to the Raptor chassis. The shock absorbers and springs are again dedicated Raptor 13 point adjustment coilovers.
The front and rear hubs are used from your Mx5. The front require modifying ,however this is something we can do for you.
Your standard style Mx5 wheel will fit in 14/15/16" Sizes
BRAKES & HANDBRAKE ASSEMBLY
The front and rear calipers and brake discs can be used. The handbrake cables can be used with minor modification required. The handbrake assembly is a dedicated Raptor part.
WIRING LOOM, SWITCH GEAR & DASH CLOCKS
The MX5 wiring loom can be used in the Raptor. It is a little longer than required but it is functional. All the switch gear and dash clocks can also be used. We do offer dedicated Raptor harness, switches, engine management ECU should you wish to use brand new parts.
ARE THERE ANY ENGINE UPGRADES AVAILABLE?
Tuning packages are available for our SB5 Raptor Modular Builds. We have 4 levels of tuning kits available for the Mazda 1.6/1.8 engine.