Towing Issues: Towing Mazda Miata, flat tow, drive shaft

Question
Hi Chris,
I want to flat tow my sister's '91 Mazda Miata, Which as a standard 5-speed trans, about 1000 miles. I see from a previous post that a '95 needs the drive shaft disconnected. Would that apply to a standard trans car, too? I would think the trans would be lubricated and it would be OK. If it's a problem, why? Could I put the rear wheels on a dolly, and tow it backwards? Thank you much. You provide a great service.
jim

Answer
Most manual transmissions are fine to tow with the wheels on the ground. If the vehicle has been sitting you may want to pull the drive shaft out but you don't have to. it is real easy (only 4 bolts) and easily secured under the vehicle. Some people suggest starting the vehicle every fuel stop, but that really doesn't make sense unless you are going to drive it around the parking lot and then hook it back up. You should be fine which ever method you use.