So we found out last Friday that the phrase "yeah, all the components fit" didn't necessarily include the starter. When we dropped the VG30E and VG30DETT transmission into our Miata, we discovered the starter was trying to occupy the same space as the passenger footwell and front subframe. So, this happened:
Yeah, it looks dirty, and yeah, it's a terrible place to cut the frame, but it had to happen. We missed the right lower control arm's rear pickup point by about 1/4", so we majorly dodged a bullet there. But still, this level of fab is not something we want to be doing this close to the deadline. Yes, we'll be sending in our registration shortly as soon as we can get money collected from the students going.
This moves the VG30E/NA Miata engine swap from "minor mods required for mounts" to "this engine doesn't fit in a Miata."
So, there's that. How many of you are also scrambling to get cars ready? 'Tis the season for midnight wrenching sessions.
Pat
Reader
9/20/11 5:06 a.m.
That sucks...but, that's what happens sometimes. Good luck buttoning it up.
Believe it or not, I'm just about ready. I even had the car out for drag and autox testing. Just need to tie up some loose ends, detail the crap out of it, load it up and keep my fingers crossed that it will still start when we get there. 
See you guys out there.
Pat. You're like the guy who has all their Christmas shopping done in October. Don't rub it in.
Gaah, mines sitting on stands and ramps waiting on parts. And I haven't even started on the bodywork yet. It may be showing up this year with dents and crappy paint.
Duke
SuperDork
9/20/11 8:48 a.m.
Hell, at this point, I would have deleted the starter and push-started the damn thing when necessary.
I think a pull-rope start would have won extra points with the judges. 
well.
at least you dont have to pull the motor to replace the starter now? 
We considered that for a split second, but decided against it. We've got all the bodywork done, and after we fab up a downpipe (front bumper exit, total of about 24" length) all that's left is wiring. We'll be there this year.
I know it would be hard to get into the budget but can you find a offset starter that would match up?
At this point, we've already cut out the frame and subframe. There's no longer a clearance issue. But regardless, a quick Google search says there's no bolt-on solutions, and I don't feel like engineering a new starting solution with T-15 days until we depart.
