Genuine Mazda P601-17-231 6-Speed Gearbox 3rd Gear
Replacement Genuine Mazda third gear for Mazda MX-5 Mk3.5 and Mk3.75 / NC 2.0L models fitted with the later 6-speed manual transmission from 2009 to 2015, plus the supported Mazda RX-8 applications listed in the compatibility table.
This internal transmission component provides the selectable third-gear ratio within the manual gearbox. When third gear is selected, the synchroniser hub and sleeve engage the gear and allow engine torque to pass through the transmission at the intended ratio.
The gear operates together with the mainshaft and countershaft gear set, third-gear synchroniser ring, 3rd/4th clutch hub and sleeve, selector fork, bearings and associated locking hardware. Accurate gear-tooth form, engagement-dog geometry and synchroniser surfaces are essential for smooth selection and reliable torque transfer.
This listing supplies one Genuine Mazda third gear. One P601-17-231 gear is required per applicable transmission.
Replacement may be required where the original gear teeth, engagement dogs, synchroniser contact surface or internal bearing surface have become worn, chipped, scored or otherwise damaged. Possible symptoms include crunching or resistance when selecting third gear, jumping out of third, abnormal transmission noise or metallic debris found in the gearbox oil.
- Part type: Manual transmission 3rd gear
- Primary use: Provides the selectable third-gear ratio
- Location: Internal 6-speed manual gearbox assembly
- MX-5 application: Mk3.5 and Mk3.75 / NC 2.0L models
- Transmission application: Later 2009-2015 6-speed manual gearbox
- Additional application: Selected Mazda RX-8 6-speed manual gearboxes
- Quantity per gearbox: One
- Quantity supplied: One gear
- Brand: Genuine Mazda
- Part No.: P601-17-231
- Also referenced as: P60117231
- Transmission restriction: 6-speed manual only
- Not suitable for: 5-speed manual or automatic transmission
Fitment advice: Confirm the gearbox type and production period before ordering. P601-17-231 is supported for the later 2009-2015 MX-5 NC 6-speed manual gearbox. Earlier pre-facelift NC 6-speed transmissions may use different internal gears, synchroniser assemblies and selector components.
Other items to consider: When replacing this gear, you may also want to consider purchasing the 3rd/4th synchroniser ring, 3rd/4th clutch hub and sleeve, 3rd/4th selector fork, shaft bearings, locking nuts, snap rings, oil seals and the correct manual transmission oil. All adjoining gears and engagement components should be inspected during dismantling.
Useful tools / consumables: Transmission removal equipment, hydraulic press, bearing splitters and pullers, circlip pliers, shaft-support fixtures, dial gauge, micrometer, calibrated torque wrench, clean assembly lubricant and Mazda-specified manual transmission oil.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Specialist / Advanced. Replacement requires substantial gearbox dismantling, removal of gears and bearings from the transmission shafts and accurate inspection of synchroniser clearances, shaft end-float and adjoining components.
Why Genuine Mazda? Genuine Mazda transmission gears are manufactured to the original tooth profile, engagement-dog geometry, dimensions, hardness and surface-finish requirements. Using the correct OE gear helps retain proper meshing, synchroniser operation, gear engagement and compatibility with the original Mazda shafts and gearbox components.
What’s in the box: One Genuine Mazda third gear, part number P601-17-231. Synchroniser rings, clutch hub, selector fork, bearings, shafts, locking hardware and transmission oil are not included.
Installation notes: Record shaft layout, component orientation, selective shims and clearances during dismantling. Inspect the mating gears, synchroniser ring, engagement sleeve, clutch hub, selector fork and bearings before fitting the replacement. Assemble using the applicable Mazda workshop procedure, replace specified single-use locking hardware and seals, verify shaft end-float and selector operation, and refill with the correct transmission oil.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3.5 / NC facelift – Soft-top and Roadster Coupe / PRHT | NC2 / NCEC | 2009-2012 | 160 | LF-VE | Petrol | 6-speed manual | 3rd gear for later 6MT; one required per gearbox |
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3.75 / NC facelift – Soft-top and Roadster Coupe / PRHT | NC3 / NCEC | 2012-2015 | 160 | LF-VE | Petrol | 6-speed manual | 3rd gear for later 6MT; one required per gearbox |
| Mazda | RX-8 | 6-speed manual variants | SE3P | 2003-2012 | 192 / 231 | 13B-MSP Renesis | Petrol rotary | 6-speed manual | 3rd gear; exact gearbox specification must match |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OEM Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | P601-17-231 |
| Mazda | P60117231 |