Genuine Mazda LF01-10-306 Engine Block to Gearbox Locating Pin / Dowel
Replacement Genuine Mazda tubular locating pin for Mazda MX-5 Mk3, Mk3.5 and Mk3.75 NC models and Mazda MX-5 Mk4 ND/RF models listed in the compatibility table.
This tubular dowel is fitted to the cylinder block and provides an accurate locating point for the gearbox bellhousing. On MX-5 Mk3 NC applications, the same pin is also used within the starter-motor mounting arrangement.
The dowel positions the engine and transmission accurately before the bellhousing bolts are tightened. This helps maintain the intended alignment between the crankshaft, clutch assembly, gearbox input shaft and transmission casing.
A missing, damaged, corroded or distorted dowel can allow the gearbox or starter motor to be installed slightly out of position. Possible consequences can include difficult assembly, uneven bellhousing location, starter-motor alignment problems, abnormal clutch or input-shaft loading and damage to the surrounding mounting faces.
- Part type: Tubular locating pin / alignment dowel
- Mazda catalogue description: Pin, Tubular
- Primary use: Accurately locates the gearbox bellhousing against the engine block
- Additional MX-5 NC use: Starter-motor mounting and location
- Location: Rear of the cylinder block / gearbox bellhousing interface
- Quantity per vehicle: Varies by engine and mounting position
- Quantity supplied: 1 tubular locating pin
- Brand: Genuine Mazda
- Part No.: LF01-10-306
- Also referenced as: LF0110306
- Related Mazda references: 1F20-10-308 / 9XG1-68-41MZ
Fitment advice: This pin is used at specific engine-block mounting positions and may appear similar to other locating dowels. Confirm the original installation point, dowel diameter and Mazda part number before fitting, particularly where the engine, gearbox or starter motor has previously been replaced.
Other items to consider: Inspect the corresponding gearbox bellhousing bore, starter-motor mounting face, bellhousing bolts, starter fasteners and remaining locating dowels. Any damaged threads, cracked mounting lugs or distorted mating surfaces should be corrected before reassembly.
Useful tools / consumables: Suitable dowel puller or internal gripping tool, soft-faced hammer, correctly sized installation drift, penetrating fluid, cleaning brush, lint-free cloths and a straightedge for checking the mating faces.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced. The pin itself is straightforward, but access may require removal of the gearbox, clutch components or starter motor. Care is required to avoid damaging the cylinder-block bore or deforming the tubular dowel during installation.
Why Genuine Mazda? Genuine Mazda locating pins are manufactured to match the original diameter, length, wall thickness and interference fit required by the engine and transmission assembly. Accurate dimensions help maintain the intended alignment between the cylinder block, bellhousing and associated rotating components.
What’s in the box: One Genuine Mazda tubular engine-block locating pin / dowel, part number LF01-10-306.
Installation notes: Clean the locating bore and surrounding mating surfaces before installation. Inspect the bore for corrosion, distortion or previous tool damage. Press or drive the new pin squarely using a correctly sized drift that supports the edge of the tubular pin without crushing it. Confirm the specified installed depth and ensure the gearbox or starter motor locates fully over the dowel before tightening the mounting bolts evenly to the applicable Mazda specification.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3 NC1 – 1.8 / 2.0 | NCEC / NC | 2005–2009 | 126 / 160 | L8-VE / LF-VE | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear engine-block gearbox locating dowel; also used in the starter-motor mounting arrangement |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3.5 NC2 – 1.8 / 2.0 | NCEC / NC | 2009–2012 | 126 / 160 | L8-VE / LF-VE | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear engine-block gearbox locating dowel; also used in the starter-motor mounting arrangement |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3.75 NC3 – 1.8 / 2.0 | NCEC / NC | 2012–2015 | 126 / 160 | L8-VE / LF-VE | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear engine-block gearbox locating dowel; also used in the starter-motor mounting arrangement |
| Mazda | MX-5 / MX-5 RF | Mk4 ND1 – 1.5 / 2.0 | ND | 2015–2018 | 131 / 160 | P5-VP / PE-VPS | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear engine-block to gearbox locating dowel |
| Mazda | MX-5 / MX-5 RF | Mk4 ND2 / ND3 – 1.5 / 2.0 | ND | 2018–Present | 132 / 184 | P5-VP / PE-VPS | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear engine-block to gearbox locating dowel |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OEM Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | LF01-10-306 |
| Mazda | LF0110306 |
| Mazda | 1F20-10-308 |
| Mazda | 9XG1-68-41MZ |