Mk1 tunnel brace, do I need to remove it?

[dobuy]

I will be getting round to putting in my new Rally Design big gearbox tunnel soon, but not sure if I have to remove the tunnel brace. I haven't finalised my gearbox decision, but it will probably be a Type 9, but could be a T5.

If I do have to remove it, where does it go, or are there any other options to mod it. Any suggestions always welcome

[dobuy]

No suggestions...... don't make me beg

[kirk honda]

you need to cut it back to the oval hole
to give room for the gear box
using a type 9

[exboyracer]

As Kirk says for the Type 9 you will need to cut back the tunnel brace, but not remove it completely as it does strengthen the tunnel

This pic shows what you need to achieve. I've boxed in the cut ends of the xmember to strengthen it.

I've never fitted a T5 to a MK1 so I can't answer that question, sorry. I would imagine you'd need a complete new tunnel though as the T5 is a big beast!

[dobuy]

Brilliant, thank you both for that, I will do the trimming of the brace, before I fit the bigger tunnel