What did you do to your NB today? [Archive]

MX-5 Miata Forum > NA/NB (1990-2005) Miata > NB (1999-2005) General discussion > What did you do to your NB today?

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Helitech

15th May 2018, 13:13

Oh yea.....286059

shoult

15th May 2018, 13:23

When my 2000 got totaled I TRIED to like a NC but could just never get there. Too heavy, too large, too ponderous. More modern to be sure, but less Miata. On the other hand, the ND is pretty awesome except for the money part.

Jitler

15th May 2018, 16:18

Slowly putting it back together. I am ready for turbo noises already. Instead of just Turboing it I have issues of cleaning and painting things. Oh well...it looks MUCH better.

Here's a before and after286062286063

klavender

15th May 2018, 17:00

Granted the NB I bought already had suspension work and is very neutral in the corners. But we traded in an NC here at work and I flogged it a little. That sucker understeered like crazy! I don't know if that's normal but I only have my car to compare it to. Also the interior plastics seemed real cheap.

Chris GTO TT

15th May 2018, 19:55

Slowly putting it back together. I am ready for turbo noises already. Instead of just Turboing it I have issues of cleaning and painting things. Oh well...it looks MUCH better.

Here's a before and after286062286063
Here I'd have been thrilled to have your before :thumbs:
Granted the NB I bought already had suspension work and is very neutral in the corners. But we traded in an NC here at work and I flogged it a little. That sucker understeered like crazy! I don't know if that's normal but I only have my car to compare it to. Also the interior plastics seemed real cheap.

Stock an NB understeers like crazy too, and are you trying to say the plastics in the NB are high quality? :dunno:

Helitech

15th May 2018, 19:58

Here I'd have been thrilled to have your before :thumbs:

Stock an NB understeers like crazy too, and are you trying to say the plastics in the NB are high quality? :dunno:After my modded NB2 was "bent" by an uninsured motorist...the search began for a replacement. The first very mechanically sound one I drove.....drove like crap compared to mine.

klavender

15th May 2018, 20:54

Here I'd have been thrilled to have your before :thumbs:

Stock an NB understeers like crazy too, and are you trying to say the plastics in the NB are high quality? :dunno:Fair enough. But I did feel the plastics in the NB were better. But I have no long term experience with the NC.

shoult

15th May 2018, 20:55

Spent some quality time getting intimate with the 02 SE. Got the engine out and on the ground. Was surprised by the shape of the motor mounts. They look to be almost new with no tears or compression evident. Still putting in the Blackbird Fabworx units though. The bottom three bellhousing bolts are being stubborn and will not loosen. My 20v 300 lbs impact isn't touching them although it had no problem with the others. I have a deadline of June 18 to have it all buttoned uop and tested before I leave on vacation (A mid week day on the Dragon and then MI). If I don't get it done then I have to take the 01 SE or the G35 neither of which will be near as fun.

https://i.imgur.com/4a8Ial3.jpg

Kmier

15th May 2018, 21:25

Hey, shoult - you still having fun with that FFS supercharger?

MN MX-5

15th May 2018, 21:48

Took the car to my first Track Night In America event. Because I dont have a roll bar I couldnt fully participate, but I had a blast just doing the paced track tour session.

After watching the different classes run and driving I could see why the Miatas annoy the other drivers. This was a small tight track with short straightaways but every time the faster cars pulled ahead they lost ground to the Miatas. I had the driver of a GTO Mustang come up to after our run to ask why I was up his ass so much. I wasnt really, I just didnt need to brake in most of the corners like he did. [emoji4]

I can see how this becomes so addicting and why people get into it.

Now I have to figure out how to buy a roll bar and get it installed without the missus noticing.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/df894a72f314142367c60d2ed7376cd9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/8c8a88298ffb9ef71b021f157d86d51f.jpg

shoult

15th May 2018, 21:54

I still want a Boss Frog Dual hump roll bar because it's way easier to put the top up and down from the seat with one as opposed to the full roll bar AND it was also certified by SCCA for Solo events which menas that most other sanctioning bodies will accept it as well. Too bad BF closed doors.

Rodan

15th May 2018, 22:54

Hard Dog Deuce?

Their site says it's legal for NASA HPDE... not sure about SCCA.

OKflyboy

15th May 2018, 23:02

I've got a HD-DD and I love it. Can't speak to it's racing legality though. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/ed314347aa8e40cee62caf7e16c55c7e.jpg

Rodan

16th May 2018, 00:00

I've got a HD-DD and I love it. Can't speak to it's racing legality though.

The side braced (like yours in the pic) is not legal... the center braced version is NASA HPDE legal according to the Bethania Garage site. I've got a side braced version on my parts NB, which I've been planning to remove to either sell, or put in my driver NB. Haven't decided yet.

OKflyboy

16th May 2018, 10:22

Well that's lame. I mean, I really have little desire to race personally, but I liked the idea of knowing that I could if I wanted to. Oh well...

shoult

16th May 2018, 10:49

Well that's lame. I mean, I really have little desire to race personally, but I liked the idea of knowing that I could if I wanted to. Oh well...

That roll bar won't keep you from competing in Auto-x or many HPDE events. It WILL keep you from racing where there's wheel to wheel action though.

OKflyboy

16th May 2018, 10:53

That roll bar won't keep you from competing in Auto-x or many HPDE events. It WILL keep you from racing where there's wheel to wheel action though.

Ah, well that's good to know. If I ever do choose to race, I doubt it would be anything other than the occasional autocross. Thanks!

Robb in Austin

16th May 2018, 10:55

Oil change.

Chris GTO TT

16th May 2018, 12:36

That roll bar won't keep you from competing in Auto-x or many HPDE events. It WILL keep you from racing where there's wheel to wheel action though.

In my experience that's not accurate. While you don't need a roll hoop for SCCA autox, as soon as you install one it must meet full SCCA specs. If it doesn't meet specs you can be asked to leave.

For HPDE every event I've been to requires some sort of rollover protection for convertibles. NA/NB Miatas do not have any rollover protection that would qualify. The only event I'm aware of where rollover protection is not required is FM's Summer Camp. It's best to look at the requirements for the groups running HPDE's in your area.

Most true wheel to wheel racing requires a full cage not just a hoop.

JonK67

16th May 2018, 13:03

Was surprised by the shape of the motor mounts. They look to be almost new with no tears or compression evident. Still putting in the Blackbird Fabworx units though. If I don't get it done then I have to take the 01 SE or the G35 neither of which will be near as fun.

Hey Steve, i'm sure you're saving those old motor mounts as spares, if not hold onto them for me. Did you figure out a workaround to get the FFS peripherals to fit with your ABS block/lines? I know you had trouble with that originally.

shoult

16th May 2018, 13:16

Yeah, it took some head scratching but Tom suggested having the bypass facing forward (he ships them all that way now) and I found that there was enough fuel line to move the offending pieces well forward and out of the way.

Your biggest problem is going to be the two nuts under the intake nearest the firewall. The only way I could get any tool on them was to pull the hose from the oil cooler to the back of the head off at the oil cooler end and remove the starter. Even then it was REAL tight.

All the other little niggles are finding places to mount the vacuum block and the IAC and then figuring out the vacuum line routing. Oh, and installing the Powercards under the dash is no treat either all though your much younger and flexible than me.

Also, if you have the eCool injector in the manifold (like mine) it's AWFUL close to the frame rail. With my new, much more solid mounts it shouldn't be able to torque over to the frame rail under power.

Sgt.Flippy

16th May 2018, 13:20

I guess I bought one. A Silver blues edition, Silver with blue roof and blue leather interior with heated seats. Original wheels to the edition are gone though.
It has 98000 kms and is 03.
I'll probably get it next week, seller is first having the sills done.

MX-5inAR

16th May 2018, 14:04

In my experience that's not accurate. While you don't need a roll hoop for SCCA autox, as soon as you install one it must meet full SCCA specs. If it doesn't meet specs you can be asked to leave.

I get what you are saying, but regarding the specific one in OKflyboy's pic, if that is the Hard Dog Deuce I'm on my second SCCA autocross season with one. No one has ever dinged me for it during tech inspection. Not sure if that is because it meets full SCCA specs or the local folks are just lax.

OKflyboy

16th May 2018, 15:11

It is indeed the Hard Dog Deuce (don't know why, but I was thinking it was called the Double Deuce, hence the DD in my post above) with side bracing, purchased from Flyin Miata late last year.

Chris GTO TT

16th May 2018, 16:17

Most of the local level SCCA groups are pretty lax so it's no big deal. If your version is not SCCA legal and you go to a national event or a tour event that's where you might have a problem. I always recommend the ones built to SCCA/NASA specs for that reason, but as always YMMV.

MX-5inAR

16th May 2018, 16:34

Found this in the rulebook:

Appendix C, Section A.8: Post or tripod types of roll bars are not acceptable.

Sounds like the Deuce to me. Glad I don't plan to do any national events! :)

dweikum

16th May 2018, 16:37

Warhammer

16th May 2018, 21:48

I got my widebody kit today! Tomorrow, the drilling and cutting begins!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/909/27289187527_76b9c9d705_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HzsdHe)

Spanner

17th May 2018, 12:04

My suspension and brake upgrade came to a close today with a Flyin Miata alignment. I wish I had done this a long time ago. Turn-in is much more responsive than with the factory alignment numbers, and that's noticeable just driving around in-town! The next time I go out I'll take a trip over Paris Mountain which has some nice twisties. :D

So now she's riding on a Flyin Miata Koni Stage II kit and stopping with new Centric premium rotors, Cardone Ultra remanufactured calipers, StopTech Sport 309 pads and Techna-Fit stainless steel braided brake lines. Feels good! :thumbs:

The best part is that Mrs. Spanner doesn't think the ride is any different than stock.

KevinK121

17th May 2018, 13:31

Took the car to my first Track Night In America event. Because I don’t have a roll bar I couldn’t fully participate, but I had a blast just doing the paced track tour session.

After watching the different classes run and driving I could see why the Miatas annoy the other drivers. This was a small tight track with short straightaways but every time the faster cars pulled ahead they lost ground to the Miatas. I had the driver of a GTO Mustang come up to after our run to ask why I was up his ass so much. I wasn’t really, I just didn’t need to brake in most of the corners like he did. [emoji4]

I can see how this becomes so addicting and why people get into it.

Now I have to figure out how to buy a roll bar and get it installed without the missus noticing.

DCTC seems to be my happy place the last few years. I tend to set a goal of at least 1 track day/month and I have either met or exceeded it since buying the miata. I had the BRZ out there on the same schedule as well.

Zoom zoom, this was last weekend.

https://scontent-ort2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/32411224_10216004955295770_3622532961141784576_n.j pg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=AeH_Uk7GUsER104j2X3I4Ujau2a3imwdXVtXTZplH g0Pi47TfFSKYKSySJt0VL2l-Y8Q9Ay-fEcE7iuhA0x49Wb4Sz0vcUiT7Rrjob-NwQTDAg&oh=1b1d34fcf7348e5005c07882f22b047b&oe=5B94BE8F

There's another event next Friday. A sight cheaper than the SCCA event as well. It's being put on by MNNI(Minnesota Nissan & Infinity) with Impulse performance orchestrating the safety and track going bits.

I believe it's $100 and runs from 3:30 or 4 until 9. Lots of track time with them. 20 minute sessions, well spaced, no passing well constructed group classing.

It'll be a younger crowd but Impulse operates like a well oiled machine when it comes to safety and running the track.

As to the roll bar, I'd be surprised if the SCCA didnt specify a specific style. They can be pretty picky about that stuff, even just for track days. I guess I was almost ejected last time I drove with them for being a hair over my roll bar. My friend who was waiting for his session heard over the radio "Has that guy in the grey miata passed the broom stick test? Someone should tell *****".

Could've just been one individual stickler for the rules though being no one approached me about it.

Either way, out of curiosity, I'll peruse their rule book and report back with what I find.

I have the boss frog clear view maxx and can attest to it being difficult to lower the top without a *BANG*.

*stock photo, not my car*

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O0fieGqr0tM/T2X-da-WroI/AAAAAAAAHak/0YzMZgICb34/s800/RollBarAddedClose.jpg

KevinK121

17th May 2018, 13:51

This is the blerb in the book about roll bars. Looking through it, it seems pretty open to what you can use. For a track day at least, I've never had anyone really bother looking at it for more than a glance. Including a SCCA track night in America event. It made it through a Brainerd tech inspect with about the same level of scrutiny.

For the DCTC event next weekend, you likely wouldn't need one. It's pretty well understood that the track there is low speed/low consequence. Even in the configuration with the longest straight, you wouldnt be likely to break 75mph.

Per the SCCA rule book, concerning roll bars: https://dk1xgl0d43mu1.cloudfront.net/user_files/scca/downloads/000/003/454/2015_TT_HC_Rules_-_Approved.pdf?1432133569

ROLL BAR SPECIFICATIONS: A roll bar is defined as a main hoop and diagonal placed behind
the driver and supplemented by two braces. The roll bar must be designed to withstand
compression forces resulting from the weight of the car coming down on the roll structure, and to
take fore-and-aft loads resulting from the car skidding along the ground on the roll structure. The
basic purpose of the roll bar is to protect the driver in case the vehicle rolls over.

One continuous length of tubing must be used for the hoop member with smooth
continuous bends and no evidence of crimping or wall failure.

The top of the roll bar must be above the top of the drivers helmet when the driver is in
normal driving position.

The two (2) vertical members forming the sides of the hoop must be more than fifteen
(15) inches apart (inside dimension), and it is desirable that it extend the full width of the
co*ckpit.

An inspection hole of at least 3/16 inch diameter to facilitate verification of wall thickness
might be required. It must be drilled in a non-critical area of a roll bar member at least
three inches from any weld or bend.

All bolts and nuts shall be SAE Grade 5 or better, 5/16 minimum diameter.

Braces and portions of the main hoop subject to contact by the drivers or passengers
helmet, as seated normally and restrained by seatbelt and harness, must be padded with a
non-resilient material such as Ethafoam (R) or Ensolite (R) or other similar material with
a minimum thickness of one-half inch. Padding meeting SFI spec 45.1 or FIA 8857-2001 is
strongly recommended.

The size of tubing to be used shall be determined on the basis of the weight of the car. The
following minimum sizes are required and are based upon the weight of the car without
the driver. Dimensions are nominal. 0.005 variation in wall thickness is allowed.
Over 1500 lbs. 1.50 x .120 or 1.75 x .095
Over 1000 lbs. 1.25 x .090
Under 1000 lbs. 1.00 x .060

The roll bar hoop and all braces must be of seamless, ERW, or DOM mild steel tubing (SAE
1010, 1020, 1025) or equivalent, or alloy steel tubing (SAE 4130).

All welding should be of the highest possible quality with full penetration. Craters should
be filled to the cross section of the weld, and undercut be no more than 0.01 inch deep.

All roll bars must be braced in a manner to prevent movement in a fore-and-aft direction
with the brace attached within the top one-third of the roll hoop. It is strongly
recommended that two such braces be used, parallel to the sides of the car, and placed at
the outer extremities of the roll bar hoop. Such braces should extend to the rear whenever
possible. It is required that roll bars include a transverse diagonal brace from the bottom
of the hoop on one side to the top of the hoop on the other side.

Removable roll bars and braces must be very carefully designed and constructed to be at
least as strong as a permanent installation. If one (1) tube fits inside another tube to
facilitate removal, the removable portion must fit tightly and must bottom on the
permanent mounting, and at least two (2) bolts must be used to secure each telescope
Track Trials & Hill Climb Page 3 of 5
section. The telescope section must be at least eight (8) inches in length. One bolt is
required if one end is welded to the main hoop.

It is recommended that all cars utilize a roll cage as defined in the current GCR.

Roll bars and braces must be attached to the frame of the car wherever possible.
Mounting plates may be used for this purpose where desired.

In the case of cars with unitized or frameless construction, mounting plates may be used
to secure the roll bar structure to the car floor. The important consideration is that the
load be distributed over as large an area as possible. A backup plate of equal size and
thickness must be used on the opposite side of the panel with the plates through-bolted
together.

Mounting plates bolted to the structure shall not be less than 0.1875 (3/16) inch thick and
the use of a back-up plate of equal size and thickness on the opposite side of the panel
with the plates through-bolted together is recommended. A minimum of 3 bolts per plate
is required for bolted mounting plates.

Mounting plates welded to the structure shall not be less than .080 inch thick. Whenever
possible the mounting plate should extend onto a vertical section of the structure such as a
door pillar.

Unusualdesigner

17th May 2018, 15:22

...The best part is that Mrs. Spanner doesn't think the ride is any different than stock.

Just wait till you get to the speed bumps in parking lots.... I wound up taking off the FM springs as I was scraping on most speed bumps. ;)

Denteen

17th May 2018, 16:12

Pieced my Valve cover together with new Wrinkle Paint, Simpson Oil Cap and Jass (Roadster) Wire Cover....

CAN YOU ELABORATE ON YOUR PROCESS FOR THE RED WRINKLE PAINT? I NEED TO DO MY GASKET AND FIGURED, WHY NOT PAINT THE VALVE COVER AND CLEAN UP THE ENGINE BAY??
A LINK WOULD BE JUST AS WELL IF YOU HAVE THAT TO SOMEONE ELSE'S PROCESS.
THANKS IN ADVANCE!!:jump::jump:

Spanner

17th May 2018, 16:44

Just wait till you get to the speed bumps in parking lots.... I wound up taking off the FM springs as I was scraping on most speed bumps. ;)

So far I haven't scraped on any, but I haven't come across any extreme speed bumps yet. I did have a wee bit of a scrape coming out of the driveway of a friend's workplace at lunch yesterday. Just keep two wheels (diagonally) on the high part...

chiefmg

17th May 2018, 20:30

Finally got back to putting her together after getting home from work away. Today I got both cams installed with appropriate shims, timing belt back on, valve cover installed with new gasket, supercharger back on complete and the radiator in. Battery is charging now. Tomorrow will be putting stuff back on the underneath side, filling the radiator and taking a test drive. This is the longest since I bought her that I haven't driven her, it's been since September of last year.

Sgt.Flippy

18th May 2018, 07:56

Went to pay the advance on the car. Monday it's going in for the sill repairs.
Then it needs to be checked up for sale (mandatory in Belgium to register a second hand vehicle). So hopefully by the end of next week I can go for a drive! Snapped some pics while I was there.

https://i.imgur.com/BvFhzaB.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/SyZTbR2.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/izvohEh.jpg

Spanner

18th May 2018, 08:27

Looks great! :thumbs:

cphilippou

18th May 2018, 09:54

I did mine 2 weeks ago when I did the TB/WP job. I threw it on the ground and used a garden hose to fully rinse it off and spray it. Dried it off, scrubbed it and cleaned it, and let it dry again. I then used painters tape to block off the holes where the bolts go, and some newspaper type material to stuff the bigger spark plug holes. Then used VHT Red Wrinkle paint in even coats, followed the instructions on the can. Maybe it was because it was a little windy, but my wrinkle didn't turn out so hot. I probably would have just gone with regular paint, but I am not too worried about it, since I am hardly ever showing off my engine bay haha. I then let it dry, then used a syringe with white enamel paint to fill the letters.

http://i64.tinypic.com/oh8w06.jpg
http://i66.tinypic.com/2poco02.jpg

shoult

18th May 2018, 10:08

I've did that on my old 2000 engine. A couple things to add.

#1 is to clean the valve cover THOROUGHLY!!! When you think it's clean enough, clean some more. If there is ANY residue (either grease and grime or residue from your cleaning) the paint will peel off after a few months. BTDT.

A painters tack cloth is your friend here.

#2 If you're using the VHT Wrinkle paint you have to lay on THICK coats, almost to the point of it running, if you want it to wrinkle properly. So get some cardboard and PRACTICE before you shoot your VC.

OKflyboy

18th May 2018, 10:10

Hit one rabbit on the way to work and then another one on the way home...

Header panel is broken to sh*t now. great....

OKflyboy

18th May 2018, 10:13

I've did that on my old 2000 engine. A couple things to add.

A painters tack cloth is your friend here.

Agreed. Also multiple coats helps a lot. When I painted my valve cover I did 5 or 6 coats over a day and a half.

cphilippou

18th May 2018, 10:25

Agreed. Also multiple coats helps a lot. When I painted my valve cover I did 5 or 6 coats over a day and a half.

amptramp

18th May 2018, 10:48

For a good wrinkle finish, clean the metal thoroughly and heat it to about 120°F / 49°C and heat the can as well but do not exceed 120°F on the can. When finished, stick it in the oven and hold it at 120°F for a while. But yours looks OK and the somewhat non-wrinkled areas will be easy to keep clean.

OKflyboy

18th May 2018, 10:50

I did 4 of 5 coats... It didn't wrinkle perfectly consistent. Like I said though, I really didn't care THAT much. From 5 feet away, you don't really see the imperfections and inconsistencies. I just really enjoy the color scheme, so it's great for my taste.It looks great. I went with black with red lettering (basically just copied Greg @ TheCarPassion channel). I like the black wrinkle but my wife was trying to convince me at the time that I should use orange for the lettering instead of red. In hindsight I think her idea would have looked great and been more original, but oh well.

cphilippou

18th May 2018, 11:37

It looks great. I went with black with red lettering (basically just copied Greg @ TheCarPassion channel). I like the black wrinkle but my wife was trying to convince me at the time that I should use orange for the lettering instead of red. In hindsight I think her idea would have looked great and been more original, but oh well.

Appreciate that. If I took a couple close ups, you would be like "oh ya, damn.. he's right, it is inconsistent in some places" haha

I'm in the Army and love America as much as the next guy haha so I thought the red white and blue is nice with the plug wires

JonK67

18th May 2018, 12:30

Hit one rabbit on the way to work and then another one on the way home...

Header panel is broken to sh*t now. great....

Hasenfeffer!!!! Shhhh...it's sleeping.

spartantrap

18th May 2018, 12:31

This was yesterday, but I replaced the upper shifter boot and the VTCS solenoid (I believe that's what it's called, part number is: BP5W-18-741 is someone wants to correct me on that). She runs a lot smoother and quieter now :thumbs: and hopefully it'll help keep out the summer heat from the cabin when I don't have ac..... :ohno: that should be fixed soon too.....

JonK67

18th May 2018, 12:35

I wouldn't use your kitchen oven to cook parts/paint the expended gases will get into the next thing you cook, plus it stinks up the house. If the gases in the food don't kill you, the spouse will if they catch you.

I use a shop lamp, those little yellow 500w garage lamps and point it at the part after painting to cure the paint then let it cool outside and that seems to harden the paint and avoids flaking/peeling.
https://mobileimages.lowes.com/product/converted/694093/6940937950037.jpg

Rodan

18th May 2018, 12:53

Here in AZ, we just set painted parts out in the sun... :p

JonK67

18th May 2018, 14:37

I was a busy beaver last night after work. With my '02 at 105k mi and a track day next weekend I finally installed new clutch master and slave and filled with ATE 200. New all in one braided line to replace the rubber/ metal line.

Better yet I hooked up my AEM failsafe AFR and boost gauge. I was worried about cutting into the tach wire for signal so I ran that wire to the IG- terminal in the diagnostics box underhood. Now I just need to connect to a dash gauge dimmer wire for lighting. I'm NA right now and AFR swings between 14.1 and 14.7 quickly at 40mph and 3k RPM, I guess that's normal as the computer recalculates?

McLovin' my Raceseng shift knob also.
286259

WingingIt

18th May 2018, 15:03

Replaced driver's inside door handle and gave her a wax! Still ugly, but at least shiny! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180518/f7fe06b5787348247b3fca80f6c0ee42.jpg

Orangello

18th May 2018, 15:08

Hit one rabbit on the way to work and then another one on the way home...

Header panel is broken to sh*t now. great....

A twofer! Will you make stew or ?

Warhammer

18th May 2018, 18:27

Work progresses on the widebody. Front bumper and left side are all mounted up.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/960/41298455005_fcc08c2b93_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25VpnRF)

chiefmg

18th May 2018, 19:32

Got back into it today. Finished hooking up the radiator and other bits and pieces. Jacked up the front end and put my nifty filling funnel on the radiator. Had to go to the store for some more antifreeze. Once everything was full I went to start her up, only to find that the battery was low. I had it charging on a low amp setting overnight but when I checked it was only at 8.5 volts. Tried starting her anyway using the "Start" setting on my charger with no luck. I went ahead and set the charger for a higher amp setting to see where that would get me. Tried again a little while ago, still without success but the battery is up to 11.5 volts without the charger connected. Given the battery is 5 years old and my schedule I figure it is done for, so another battery is ordered. The charger is still connected in case I can get it back up enough to get her started to burp the cooling system.

And for all of those who are visually driven, here is a picture as she sits now:

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/955/28326805058_5e5af3c87c_c.jpg

Mk1Racer

19th May 2018, 06:39

Added a driveway companion. '17 Mazda 3 GT with preferred equip pkg. CPO with 13k miles286280

mikeyd

19th May 2018, 07:07

Added a driveway companion. '17 Mazda 3 GT with preferred equip pkg. CPO with 13k miles286280

well, it wasn't exactly today (last week) I took a similar path
2018 CX-5 GT

Mk1Racer

19th May 2018, 10:07

I really wanted a CX5, but since it will be a commuter car, fuel economy played a factor.

Car looks great! I was talking to the salesman at the dealer, and he said the CX5 is hands down their best seller

Jitsuka

19th May 2018, 15:14

Tried to fix the front brakes; didn't go according to plan!
Bought the new caliper I'd been hoping to avoid having to buy.
Learned lessons.

mikeyd

19th May 2018, 19:20

I really wanted a CX5, but since it will be a commuter car, fuel economy played a factor.

Car looks great! I was talking to the salesman at the dealer, and he said the CX5 is hands down their best seller

thanks MK1
CX3 is nice too
I just took a maiden highway voyage with the 5, close to 30mpg according to the trip computer, never came close to that with the Tacoma I traded in.
And believe me, I wasnt easy on the throttle :)

dweikum

19th May 2018, 20:04

It's a beautiful day in the Bay Area so I washed it. Getting pretty good at it, can wash and dry the little roadster in under 20 minutes with the top off.

Mk1Racer

19th May 2018, 21:35

Mike,

I did a 60 mile mostly highway trip, 35.5, and lets just say that I drove it like the miat [emoji41][emoji41]

Helitech

19th May 2018, 21:56

7 hour roadtrip to pick up some parts for both my Miatas. Differential housing, MSM trunk lid with spoiler and a rear bumper cover for my first recently wrecked 2001. Same guy had a complete set of OE carpet for my new to me Red 2001. Excellent trip for me!

JonK67

20th May 2018, 12:59

Halfway through my FFS SC install, teardown complete, cleaned intake ports as they had 1/16" of carbon goo at 105k mi. Biggest surprise was the dead family of spiders in the TPS, wonder if they affected my throttle? Installed pass side new comp motor mount, old one was good. Stopped at 1:30am.

Drivers side mm today and install of supercharger.
286353

Sgt.Flippy

20th May 2018, 15:06

Made some room for when it arrives. Shame the other one has to move into the corner. Engine is bust, needs money :-(

https://i.imgur.com/pDnFowA.jpg

Warhammer

20th May 2018, 15:33

I finished the initial installation of my widebody kit.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/824/40423431830_6968f88ce2_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A5DXd)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/904/40423431070_f290de762c_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24A5DJ7)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/949/41509248414_235f66b9dd_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26f2KoN)

Sgt.Flippy

20th May 2018, 15:37

Awesome!

Mk1Racer

20th May 2018, 16:24

Looks sharp! [emoji106]

WingingIt

20th May 2018, 16:35

Great job!

Toybreaker

20th May 2018, 16:50

Got stuck on the exhaust manifold removal, the egr pipe is stuck.....

shoult

20th May 2018, 17:18

I'm only working a couple hours a day, but this weekend I gave the 02 SE a fresh new Pink Butt.

https://i.imgur.com/bsrCTfp.jpg

Then I buttoned it all back up and bolted the new Blackbird Fabworx Street Drop engine mounts (with NB1 style plates) to the block. I also did some engine block cleaning while I was at the garage. When I pulled the engine I ended up pulling the exhaust manifold and the down pipe as a unit. I haven't been able to get them apart so I brought them home to work on.

I should get my SuperMiata clutch hydraulics kit this week and once the slave cylinder is bolted on the engine/trans should be ready to go back in over the long weekend. Then it's just hooking up all the little stuff.

pacomutt

20th May 2018, 17:34

I'm only working a couple hours a day, but this weekend I gave the 02 SE a fresh new Pink Butt.

https://i.imgur.com/bsrCTfp.jpg

Fix that hose clamp on the water outlet nipple.

RazzCat

20th May 2018, 17:51

Replaced the original (194,800 miles) CAS blanking plug at the back of the head.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nqUCWevYL3YQhJZ5f64pdNycJ42eT5Tf8rDOVABlS0CcQ0_zgg rue9AJEuQPE7-fsmpkybyuZBYGbpCZfSxt3TcfzVaXyrwoVUKmBkeAKIPjRpHdf pAMQaDKuMvT5ZKUUUiwgIXbL1eu5LGs7EMn42FdaMxUOds8TEy 67m80Co2_4r8wtuft1c6ngPrnD39LsXvCF9sYWH3eSGtd-4Zr0i7Cg3bGRh9GqoF-T3SbJ-7VykAe6axj6I1elUUt-DicCANIc4I7TT7fN2NKA4Zx4uJAn3Cj6QYZni9SZjypTg6XBNi ecXTuGmsxVT6r_eM0neBN9R6w6wy-vRhTOxMATV8-Ai5wEAfaB2ElWv_G_yR82_lvRV8Gjy4s31E9jCIFdRGoWMQFy9 lOnPhkFA_ijSX1sR9TsG4ppaGtPEb-M1e4fl7FeKBNCT_GLwpoJg6U6ChOU6ULq6xMiku2fzX3wD-8yUrk45JxvJ987Es25ghIe9H6X_kiEV5fOy4FPyU5U1KA3EwcP fJvFfr8Gtf0GlV-7wVD3YJvzrM70JSmCidCjeupTjd7Ocfu5xYdvrFVygHI3Ve6pU uHhHSoQLBOZhrO-9bPrK7VhKEaxt799AhRln9Ke7A0nMqsgrjDk0v7aPMTNDGVcPm kJsH-TfhHVINSvxH7b8PX=w640-h480-no

Most difficult part of the job was simply trying to find a way to press the new plug back into the head given the tight working space. Got it halfway in all around with finger pressure. Then, I used a short piece of wood board placed against the firewall, and a small crowbar pushing against that with a little metal bar on the blanking plug to protect the edges from the crowbar claw. Anyway, it's done.

Shoult, looking at the back of your engine, can't help noticing how accessible that CAS plug is there... :)

shoult

20th May 2018, 17:55

Shoult, looking at the back of your engine, can't help noticing how accessible that CAS plug is there... :)

That's a fresh plug from the last TB/WP job about 20K miles ago. The PO left me with ALL the receipts for ALL the work she had done (a folder about 1.5" thick) and I'm the second owner.

13brv3

20th May 2018, 18:24

Drivers side mm today and install of supercharger.
286353

Wow, so that's what's under the intake that I can't see :-)

It's almost certain that I'll be installing an FFS at some point, and when you get this done, I'd love a ride. I'm over in Tellico Plains, but have 200 mph transportation :D

Cheers,
Rusty (watching for more updates)

JonK67

20th May 2018, 18:33

Wow, so that's what's under the intake that I can't see :-)

It's almost certain that I'll be installing an FFS at some point, and when you get this done, I'd love a ride. I'm over in Tellico Plains, but have 200 mph transportation :D

Cheers,
Rusty (watching for more updates)Be happy to Rusty. I get to Sevierville near Pigeon Forge every couple months, that'd be a lot shorter drive but also live close to the Smyrna airport if you ever fly into there.

MN MX-5

20th May 2018, 19:15

Washed and waxed her. I love seeing the trees and clouds reflected in the paint. 286373

13brv3

20th May 2018, 20:32

Be happy to Rusty. I get to Sevierville near Pigeon Forge every couple months, that'd be a lot shorter drive but also live close to the Smyrna airport if you ever fly into there.

Awesome! No hurry really, so take your time. TVS900 or MP62? Is there any other information posted elsewhere in the forum? The build thread in your signature doesn't quite make it to the supercharger.

Cheers,
Rusty

UTMorpheus

20th May 2018, 20:39

Drove the piss out of her(no really, I think my AC evap tube is clogged, she peed all over the floor) through the hills of MD. Then developed a misfire. Then drove some more because it only happens under 2k rpm. Cats be damned, my inspection is good until May 2019.

Growe58

20th May 2018, 20:45

Finished putting my 2000's interior back together and was so glad to have it running again after being sidelined for a month that I treated it to a wash 'n' wax and treated myself to a fun ride with the top down. After days and days of rain, we finally had a nice day for it!

JonK67

20th May 2018, 20:50

Cheers,
RustyMP62 coldside, I need to update my build thread once it's running, this week hopefully.

Sent from my XT1053 using MX5 Miata.net mobile app (http://r.tapatalk.com/byo?rid=74348)

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 16:07

In the middle of a valve adjustment. Easiest to just pull the camshafts. Now waiting on 9 shims on order....

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/70a78c453d863b29b1ae0b50663a5938.jpg

cphilippou

21st May 2018, 16:12

In the middle of a valve adjustment. Easiest to just pull the camshafts. Now waiting on 9 shims on order....

I guess my car didn't come with the gold plated upgrade :dunno: :rofl:

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 16:20

I guess my car didn't come with the gold plated upgrade :dunno: :rofl:

Purty, isn't it? :D

Mk1Racer

21st May 2018, 16:50

What's the diameter on the shims? I wonder if my old VW shims would work?

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 16:53

They measure 27mm.

shoult

21st May 2018, 17:25

Nissan work. Don't remember VW listed as being the same.

Orangello

21st May 2018, 17:31

I guess my car didn't come with the gold plated upgrade :dunno: :rofl:

SERIOUSLY! What kind of oil is that King Midas's special?

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 17:33

Nissan work. Don't remember VW listed as being the same.

The local Mazda dealer will have them by Wednesday. Nine shims and a couple of camshaft seals, and I'll be good to go for about $110. :D

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 17:37

SERIOUSLY! What kind of oil is that King Midas's special?

Yeah, I know. You're one of those guys who wouldn't be able to sleep at night knowing the inside of your engine looks like this. Chain smoking and pacing the floor!
Hey, it was a $750 car, and it runs like a new one! :D

shoult

21st May 2018, 17:55

Actually, the picture you posted looks normal for a Miata that's been used and maintained. I've seen them at 60K and at over 200K miles look like that.

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 18:06

Actually, the picture you posted looks normal for a Miata that's been used and maintained. I've seen them at 60K and at over 200K miles look like that.

I know, I just remember him from the "sludge" thread. Knowing that the engine looks like this inside would ruin the whole owning/driving experience for him. I've only had the car a few thousand miles. I'm sure if the previous owner would have dropped another thousand bucks into oil changes over its 19-year life, ....well actually it would probably look about the same. :D

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 18:12

The horror, the horror...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/6d199c7b7650f9b281ca2ea4615f50d4.jpg

Orangello

21st May 2018, 18:46

I was serious. The gold sheen looks nice in the photo.

Mine had no gold sheen after sitting for much of the spring and had some small dark puddles in the recesses under the worky bits in your first pic (204000+ miles). I did mop up the grossest of them with shop rags (clean and grit free). My cover didn't look that bad, of course it too had been draining/oozing down to the pan for a couple months. No pudding like the other thread in mine though, thankfully. The cover cleaned up nicely with some brake cleaner and warm water. The pudding would have had me wiggin.

I gave up cigarettes and tobacco some years ago, felt those lung cells might have a higher purpose and wanted to save some for it. :D If I'm up late pacing, it would be with a drink most likely.

My miata was only $2000 but needed a new top which was not cheap.

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 19:29

I was serious. The gold sheen looks nice in the photo....

Sorry. I thought you were being negative about the oil "varnish" and the beginnings of deposits. I don't think it's bad at all for 146K miles. Car was cheap, body is a rust bucket, but mechanically it's in good shape. The P.O. didn't know how important it is to keep the top drains clear.:(
I assume the car never had the valves adjusted since several exhaust valves were .016" clearance, so I'm taking care of that now. I can see why dealers, and anyone else who gets paid to work on cars won't do this job.

Spanner

21st May 2018, 19:44

I registered the car in SC and de-Virginiaized it--down to one license plate and removed the VA state inspection sticker. I like the plateless front end much better. Unfortunately, the plate was hiding some of the battle damage from when I was backed into last year, but that will get repaired next month.

I also cleaned the brake dust off my wheels--again. So far I like how the StopTech Sport brake pads work and feel, but they are very dusty compared to stock. They've already been bedded in and driven a few hundred miles, so I'm losing hope that the dust will further subside.

@pacomutt, seriously, what brand of oil do you use?

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 19:49

I registered the car in SC and de-Virginiaized it--down to one license plate and removed the state inspection sticker. I like the plateless front end much better. Unfortunately, the plate was hiding some of the battle damage from when I was backed into last year, but that will get repaired next month.

@pacomutt, seriously, what brand of oil do you use?

pacomutt

21st May 2018, 19:55

This was the last oil change. I had about a quart and a half in each of these jugs, so whatever it averages out to for weight is what is in there. I use good oil, but dont get hung up about it like I used to. Its all pretty good nowadays, even cheap WalMart synthetic is fine.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180521/a5c241ef99f0d3d0895e976e13828043.jpg

Spanner

21st May 2018, 20:17

I've only had the car for maybe 3,000 miles and now it has 146,000miles on it. But it has Mobil 1 in it for the last 1500 or so miles. That gold sheen is just "varnish" from probably cheap oil that stayed in there too long. :wave:
Interesting. I didn't realize you've had the car for such a short period of time. But that color is odd. Here is what mine looked like after several oil changes with Shell Rotella T-6. I think the PO used dino oil from Mazda.

13brv3

21st May 2018, 20:54

Same color as mine was. The car is new to me, with 100k miles, and questionable previous maintenance.

Cheers,
Rusty

Reddyk

22nd May 2018, 02:53

Drove some backroads after work and in a warm spring rain ( 69 degrees).

pacomutt

22nd May 2018, 06:39

Same color as mine was. The car is new to me, with 100k miles, and questionable previous maintenance.

Cheers,
Rusty

I wouldn't be worried about that at all. It looks fine. If you do as good or better than the previous owner with oil changes, that engine will be around for a long time! :)
What's being done here with the camshafts out? Valve adjustment?

13brv3

22nd May 2018, 09:55

Exactly right.

I installed a hardtop yesterday, and today I'll start the big teardown for suspension, clutch, Torsen diff, and exhaust. After that, I just need to rob a bank to pay for the FFS supercharger :-)

Rusty

pacomutt

22nd May 2018, 10:04

Exactly right.

I installed a hardtop yesterday, and today I'll start the big teardown for suspension, clutch, Torsen diff, and exhaust. After that, I just need to rob a bank to pay for the FFS supercharger :-)

Rusty

Odd. Most of your clearances got smaller; most of mine got larger.

Denteen

22nd May 2018, 11:02

Thanks! I love it. The seats are far more comfortable than I thought they would be.285711

Whats your roll bar and can you mount those yourself?

Denteen

22nd May 2018, 11:04

I picked up a new (to me) set of wheels last night...

https://photos.smugmug.com/Mazda-Miata-2003-SE/i-HFv3npn/0/e26554c8/L/20180508_205404-01-L.jpg

and installed them this morning before going in to work!

https://photos.smugmug.com/Mazda-Miata-2003-SE/i-jqxrn9m/0/bbecbc29/L/20180509_085758-01-L.jpg

MUCH improved!

My wheels as well on an 05. So happy they were on the car when I bought it.

Helitech

22nd May 2018, 11:54

Whats your roll bar and can you mount those yourself?Hard Dog double diagonal. The back of the seat actually connects to the roll bar brace. Yes, they can be installed yourself.

BrentS1

22nd May 2018, 13:15

Installed a Nardi ND1 steering wheel. Cant seem to post pictures for some reason.

Orangello

22nd May 2018, 15:47

Interesting. I didn't realize you've had the car for such a short period of time. But that color is odd. Here is what mine looked like after several oil changes with Shell Rotella T-6. I think the PO used dino oil from Mazda.

Mine was more like this one in color.

I did find the perfect car for whatever oil gives that Midas touch:

https://gulfport.craigslist.org/cto/d/2001-honda-civic-coupe-ex/6595371852.html

Denteen

22nd May 2018, 17:08

Mine was more like this one in color.

I did find the perfect car for whatever oil gives that Midas touch:

https://gulfport.craigslist.org/cto/d/2001-honda-civic-coupe-ex/6595371852.html

Off topic but heading from Cali to gulfport to see my son friday. Stationed there. Never been to MS. Looking fwd to it!

Denteen

22nd May 2018, 17:12

Hit one rabbit on the way to work and then another one on the way home...

Header panel is broken to sh*t now. great....

Well thats pretty sad for bunny. Apparently these cars are magnets for critters. Sad for miata as well. Sorry

Denteen

22nd May 2018, 17:13

http://i64.tinypic.com/oh8w06.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/2poco02.jpg

Looks great either way! Man thats a pretty Porsche red paint color.
Tks Shoult as well!

Orangello

22nd May 2018, 17:15

Off topic but heading from Cali to gulfport to see my son friday. Stationed there. Never been to MS. Looking fwd to it!

My advice is to eat lite for a few days before you get here and to enjoy the food at the smaller restaurants rather than at the casinos.

Get a shrimp or oyster poboy at one of the small, road-side places (Pass road had a few good ones last time I was there).

edit* "Denteen" like the itty-bitty cinnamon gum?

shoult

22nd May 2018, 17:38

Got the SuperMiata hydraulic overhaul kit in today so I was GOING to spend some time at the garage putting the engine back in. Then my brother from Arizona called to let me know he was in town and see if we could get together. So no work on the car tonight......

Krack

22nd May 2018, 20:43

fixed my input shaft bearing noise by greasing the clutch fork
best input shaft bearing fix ever.

13brv3

22nd May 2018, 20:56

Removed all the original exhaust, which was actually easier than expected. The bolts were rusted for sure, but with some PB Blaster and effort, everything came apart. The hardest part was getting those darn hangars loose :rolleyes:

I also removed the power plant frame in preparation to pull the trans tomorrow.

Rusty

Kmier

22nd May 2018, 21:35

Fresh Redline 75w90 GL-5 Diff oil. Had to hunt for my oil bottle pump until I found it.

In preparation for the muggy hot Alabama summer, I added the Moss Cool Breeze Scoop to my windshield header. Fits very well; seems to be designed well. Even with a bug screen at the opening. Will give it a try tomorrow afternoon.

OKflyboy

22nd May 2018, 23:03

Well thats pretty sad for bunny. Apparently these cars are magnets for critters. Sad for miata as well. SorryYeah... It was not a good day for either of us. Worse for bunny.

OKflyboy

23rd May 2018, 00:41

Oh joy. Just found a fuel leak.

I've been chasing an intermittent fuel smell for months but tonight it progressed to full-on drip, drip drip leak. I mean, no fires or anything, so there's that to be thankful for, but tomorrow's not going to be any fun. Good thing I'm already on vacation for my son's high school graduation...

Denteen

23rd May 2018, 01:19

My advice is to eat lite for a few days before you get here and to enjoy the food at the smaller restaurants rather than at the casinos.

Get a shrimp or oyster poboy at one of the small, road-side places (Pass road had a few good ones last time I was there).

edit* "Denteen" like the itty-bitty cinnamon gum?

Haha. Nah. Just a mix of mine and my wifes name. Its the goto user name
Will take your advice as well! Going to NO as well and havent had beignets (sp?) in 25 years. Excited. Skipping the hickory coffee this time tho...🤢

Denteen

23rd May 2018, 01:20

Another thing to look up... this car addiction is dangerous. I gotta get off this forum! [emoji6]

josolanes

23rd May 2018, 09:08

Finally back :)

Was in Chicago for a work conference. I work remotely and most of my team (and my company's headquarters) is in the Chicago area. Had a good time with good people :thumbs:

My small list of maintenance items currently, just looking for one of those days where I'm so bored I want to tackle them:
- replace power steering reservoir. Original is a bit rusty. I have one in perfect condition that I want to sand and hit with powdercoat to make it near rust proof
- cleanup and maybe powdercoat the intake manifold (upper and lower). Etched with white stuff
- cleanup and maybe powdercoat the valve cover. Also etched with white stuff

I've got a small powdercoating gun I used years ago on an RSX valve cover and found it surprisingly easy to work with. Though the house did smell horrible for a while after baking in our oven :rofl:

I've got silver, clear, black, and some wacky colors like purple, red, etc. Plan to make them look OEM-ish so likely just silver and black to match the original colors

jqadams51

23rd May 2018, 15:56

Got it on Monday. 2002, with 37,000 miles and I am excited. But I am off to a rocky start, MIL reports a bad rear O2 sensor, in my first 10 mile drive I had a burning rubber smell (from the engine, I think) that I have not located yet, and today, the battery acts almost dead and the engine won't start - but the alarm works!
I'm still excited and I know I will use the knowledge of this group to make it all good.

Unusualdesigner

23rd May 2018, 17:13

:welcome:

josolanes

23rd May 2018, 17:20

pfk1106

23rd May 2018, 17:46

Fresh Redline 75w90 GL-5 Diff oil. Had to hunt for my oil bottle pump until I found it.

Orangello

23rd May 2018, 18:32

I patted it affectionately and got a little whiff of that "it's not mildew but there has been rain in here" aroma before I carpooled to the boooooooring seminar in an Avalon (almost as boooooring as the seminar).

How do the lovebugs like it? They are getting thick here in MS; i'm sure they will be coming for you soon. :D

daender

23rd May 2018, 19:49

Drove approximately 100 miles going to a doctor's appointment after work and then back home. Of course, all of it with the top down! Who needs to pay a hair stylist when the wind will do it for free?

Spitandsputter

23rd May 2018, 20:16

Replaced the rear view mirror with a Gentex 453 out of an Infiniti. Not too bad of a project, beware, there isnt much room to tuck wiring around the dome light though! I was hoping this mirror had the hidden compass but it doesnt. ☹️ Hopefully my brake parts come in time for a weekend install!

13brv3

23rd May 2018, 20:50

The modification marathon continues. Pulled the trans, installed the FM stage 1 happy meal and rear crank seal. I had planned to do the motor mounts while the trans is out, but I think it will be easier when the trans is back in, since the motor won't be flopping around with two off center mounts. No idea how I'm going to get the trans back in :p

Rusty (this stuff was easier a few decades ago)

Kmier

23rd May 2018, 20:55

I have one, but I found the only air hit my right hand when I held it on the shifter.

Yeah, mine hits me just above my right knee. I started by trimming a 1/2 off the bottom (dont want to go too far at first). The nice thing about it is that the air through it is definitely cooler than that through the vents (A/C off). Id like it to hit me right on the chest if I can get it shaped right.

Made a discovery today that really surprised me - with top down and windows up, the A/C does a pretty darn good job of cooling you off, even on a hot humid day. I dont know why I never tried that before. Does a better job of cooling you in the summer than the heater keeps you warm in the winter.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180524/7fb89628e0ffcb002d58ab8ab4529036.jpg

Kmier

23rd May 2018, 21:05

How do the lovebugs like it? They are getting thick here in MS; i'm sure they will be coming for you soon. :D

Actually, we dont get hit with love bugs around Birmingham. I remember them quite well in North Florida, though. Im an ex-biker, so Im not too turned off about bug splatter. They are just a reminder that you were moving fast enough.

Kmier

23rd May 2018, 21:17

Fresh Redline 75w90 GL-5 Diff oil.

Meant to report yesterday that at 87,600 miles (30,000 spirited miles by me), there were NO metal chunks in the bottom of my Tochigi Fuji diff. My records from the PO show that the oil was changed 30K miles back.

Honestly, I was halfway hoping to see bad news when I drained it - it would have propelled me down the inevitable path of 1) Torsen to swap in, 2) stronger clutch, and...3) Toms FFS kit!

But Ill shelve that tendency for now, as rational thought takes back over...[emoji12]

OKflyboy

23rd May 2018, 23:40

Oh joy. Just found a fuel leak.

Spent the afternoon tracking down a replacement damper. Had to order it. It will be in on Friday and my baby's in pieces until then. :(

spartantrap

24th May 2018, 11:42

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180524/d83650c5de8a615d1afcc2027fb9384f.jpg

Tearing into the intake manifold to clean it today... replacing injectors, the sandwich plate gasket, and the last two devil's hoses while I'm in there

Warhammer

24th May 2018, 11:45

I added red LEDs to my new clear rear reflectors. The pics make the color look washed out, but they are very bright and very red in person.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/970/42277395692_affaee23f7_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27pUGPo)

Woodstudio

24th May 2018, 13:42

Congratulations. The Miata is a fun car to drive. What do mean by the battery acts almost dead and the engine wont start ? Sounds like the immobilizer. I hope not.

Spanner

24th May 2018, 13:51

Replaced the spark plugs, air filter, and clutch fluid. Adjusted the rear sway bar, hand brake and pool noodle.

josolanes

24th May 2018, 13:53

@Woodstudio I'd start simple. Test the battery and replace as needed. If it starts with a new battery, the immobilizer isn't the problem

If you replace the battery and shortly after the new one also runs low, I'd start questioning the alternator next

Definitely start with the most common/simplest solution first though and get the battery checked or replace it

Though I admit, I do slightly worry about the immobilizer going on mine even if it's uncommon. Is an aftermarket ECU enough to prevent it from being a problem if it arises? I know to go OEM is replacing the ECU, key, ignition, etc which is obviously fairly involved

bakeway

24th May 2018, 14:55

https://i.imgur.com/tUEaEt9b.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/UDPDizzb.jpg

Installed the Morimoto projector kit from TRS. I had high expectations and am not disappointed.

bakeway

24th May 2018, 14:58

httphttps://i.imgur.com/UDPDizzh.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/EBekHLrh.jpg

josolanes

24th May 2018, 15:25

^ very nice! I'm a big fan of retrofits and those look great!

Any cutoff shots? :)

Spanner

24th May 2018, 16:17

Mrs. Spanner and I tag-teamed to do a wash and wax in just about 90 minutes including putting stuff away.

pacomutt

24th May 2018, 16:32

286652

Still waiting on valve shims from Mazda dealer! ☹️

shoult

24th May 2018, 16:39

286652

Still waiting on valve shims from Mazda dealer! ☹️

What thicknesses did you need?

pacomutt

24th May 2018, 16:50

What thicknesses did you need?

I don't know if they were done incorrectly at one time, or never done at all, but while most folks' valve clearances get smaller, most of mine were too far on the loose side.
I needed:
4 each of .128"
1 ea. of .1258"
1 ea. of .1299"
1 ea. of .1318"
2 ea. of .1337"

The dealer got in all but 2 of them, but hopefully tomorrow...

pacomutt

24th May 2018, 16:57

Anyway, all the intakes will be at .008 and all the exhausts will be at .012 when I get the shims.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180524/35002d637e56ababb86555e4262b9b9c.jpg

Kmier

24th May 2018, 20:07

Going to give this mod a try tomorrow. The initial 1/2 I cut off the bottom of my air scoop didnt bring the air stream up off of my lap. Hoping these larger cutouts do what I need it to do. Also removed the bug screen, a la MAF delete (for more flow, dont you know?) [emoji106]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180525/733e6894875bc5f81658ace2695196a3.jpg

daender

24th May 2018, 20:15

I added red LEDs to my new clear rear reflectors. The pics make the color look washed out, but they are very bright and very red in person.

Have you thought about trimming the flares as to not cover the reflector? Might want to put something over the covered portion of the reflector so the light doesn't shine through your new flares.

shoult

24th May 2018, 20:33

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180525/733e6894875bc5f81658ace2695196a3.jpg

You're going to regret removing the screen. Large bugs hitting your bare thighs and arms at freeway+ speeds hurts like a beach.

Kmier

24th May 2018, 20:59

Aargh!!! Knowing that the air speed wasnt too ferocious on my first test run, and that the big critters would have a rapid change in direction when hitting the vent, Maybe it wont be too bad. Well see.

13brv3

24th May 2018, 22:12

Amazingly, I managed to get the transmission back in. I also realized the last time I changed a clutch was in my 85 RX-7 over 30 years ago. I seem to recall it being easier, but I'm sure the years have something to do with that.

Next step is swapping my open diff for a Torsen. I had hoped to pull the old one out pretty quickly, but no such luck. The lower control arm bolt is completely frozen to one of the bushings. Soaked it in PB Blaster and gave up for the night.

Rusty (time is not your friend)

Unusualdesigner

24th May 2018, 23:16

.... Also removed the bug screen, a la MAF delete (for more flow, dont you know?) [emoji106]

That'll work until you scoop up a rather pissed off bee or wasp and it lands on your bare leg... :rofl:

That small amount of netting does not reduce airflow whatsoever.

Once riding my motorcycle I scooped a wasp into the sleeve of my leather jacket. That critter crawled all the way almost to my elbow and proceeded to empty its venom sack all over my arm as it went up. It swelled like a watermelon.

spartantrap

25th May 2018, 00:07

Well, takin the intake manifold off was a bit of a chore, but not as bad as I was expecting; the main irritation was all the things one's arms get nicked on when squeezing into cramped spaces :dunno: other than that, everything went pretty smoothly and took way less time than I was thinking it would. Glad to be wrong about time estimates for once...

AnonymousD

25th May 2018, 04:49

Picked this up the other day. Its not from a Miata, but itll be going in mine. :D

https://i.imgur.com/WYsU1yK.jpg

bakeway

25th May 2018, 06:37

^ very nice! I'm a big fan of retrofits and those look great!

Any cutoff shots? :)

https://i.imgur.com/ORhxYWvh.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/EDQanFVh.jpg
I am amazed at how far away these will light up road signs.

josolanes

25th May 2018, 08:38

^ :thumbs:

There needs to be a drool smiley here :O

Fahqu

25th May 2018, 13:28

Finally removed a stuck spark plug and installed new NGK spark plugs/wires, gave her a wash and went on a spirited drive inspired by my playing of Forza on my xbox, where I run a miata for every class.

Happy to have a clean, properly functioning ignition system now, 1 week and I will have a garage to install my suspension!

AnonymousD

25th May 2018, 17:55

https://i.imgur.com/ORhxYWvh.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/EDQanFVh.jpg
I am amazed at how far away these will light up road signs.

Do you have any closeup shots of the lights? Im doing mine next week and am trying to decide how much of it to paint black.

bakeway

25th May 2018, 18:09

https://i.imgur.com/GIhXBEdl.jpg

bakeway

25th May 2018, 18:11

Doesn't show well in the picture but i left the turn signal reflector chrome.

bakeway

25th May 2018, 18:27

Do you have any closeup shots of the lights? Im doing mine next week and am trying to decide how much of it to paint black.

Thought I would add this. 1st light went in the oven for 15 min. @250F was very difficult to separate. Next one 15 min. @ 260 made all the difference much easier.

AnonymousD

25th May 2018, 19:11

Thought I would add this. 1st light went in the oven for 15 min. @250F was very difficult to separate. Next one 15 min. @ 260 made all the difference much easier.

Good to know. Ive seen a lot of ppl saying the had to leave it in longer or crank the temp up.

Ill probably paint my signal reflectors too. Ive got some directional LED bulbs fir that spot. Might pain the shroud for the projectors too. That would be the only chrome on my car apart from the hard top mounting stuff by the trunk. Thatll be painted soon too.

Rodan

25th May 2018, 20:52

https://i.imgur.com/GIhXBEdl.jpg

Do you have a link to the kit you bought? I nosed around on the TRS site, but couldn't find a projector kit...?

UTMorpheus

25th May 2018, 21:06

Do you have a link to the kit you bought? I nosed around on the TRS site, but couldn't find a projector kit...?

Any of the D2S or H1 Morimoto kits. I STRONGLY recommend the D2S kit. It's the second best mod I ever did to my car.

UTMorpheus

25th May 2018, 21:08

Memorial Day weekend love.

Spanner

25th May 2018, 21:25

Changed the oil, balanced the tires, drove to Dawsonville, GA. What's next? 🤔

OKflyboy

25th May 2018, 21:58

Old damper out, new damper in. Lots of cleaning in and around the intake before reassembling and now she runs once again.

No fuel smell. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b2812f132ea52a4f11c3852cb9599993.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/d05ab86bc56011686cb864abb83f276b.jpg

13brv3

26th May 2018, 00:43

Rusted suspension bolts beaten into submission, so I could get the axles out, and pull the open diff. I also removed the bushings from the "new" Torsen and will install the Mazda comp bushings next.

Rusty (hammer time)

bakeway

26th May 2018, 03:49

Do you have a link to the kit you bought? I nosed around on the TRS site, but couldn't find a projector kit...?https://www.theretrofitsource.com/projector-kits/retrofit-kits-universal/bixenon-morimoto-mini-h1-stage-3.html?preselect=50325%2C47372%2C51812%2C54403%2C4 7309

Rodan

26th May 2018, 07:13

https://www.theretrofitsource.com/projector-kits/retrofit-kits-universal/bixenon-morimoto-mini-h1-stage-3.html?preselect=50325%2C47372%2C51812%2C54403%2C4 7309

Thanks... didn't realize it was a universal kit... I was searching under NB Miatas...

Woodstudio

26th May 2018, 08:12

Happy to have a clean, properly functioning ignition system now, 1 week and I will have a garage to install my suspension!

Do you have any suggestions on how to remove a stuck spark plug? How did you do it? Thanks

Makon101

26th May 2018, 12:05

Changed the oil, balanced the tires, drove to Dawsonville, GA. What's next? 🤔

I'd suggest the drive from Dahlonega to Morganton on Rt. 60, or take off on Wolf Pen Gap rd in Suches, some great roads and views up there :D

Spanner

26th May 2018, 14:22

I'd suggest the drive from Dahlonega to Morganton on Rt. 60, or take off on Wolf Pen Gap rd in Suches, some great roads and views up there :D

Close! :D

ridethecliche

26th May 2018, 14:45

Been trying to trouble shoot some oil leaks, noises/rattles, etc after installing a new motor.

For some reason I can't really check any oil level on the dipstick even though there is definitely oil in the system...

Anddd the alternator plug is sparking and melting the plastic cover. No friggin clue why.

pacomutt

26th May 2018, 14:49

Close! :D

What's going down on that card?!! :eek:

ridethecliche

26th May 2018, 15:08

What's going down on that card?!! :eek:

It's a track.

Spanner

26th May 2018, 15:43

It's a track.

But can you identify the other car? 🤔

matt.keith7

26th May 2018, 16:35

Just picked up a 2001 oem header, should wake up my 99 a little bit. Also got a front top bow and latches to make a bikini top, Frankenstein bolts also for the bikini top, handful of random bolts and a power window regulator. $220 for all that. I think I did pretty good.

shoult

26th May 2018, 17:22

If you go the 01+ EGR tube and heat shield with the 01+ header then yeah, not too bad. If you didn't, than not so much.

matt.keith7

26th May 2018, 17:26

If you go the 01+ EGR tube and heat shield with the 01+ header then yeah, not too bad. If you didn't, than not so much.

I have the heat shield but not the pipe. Im just gonna block off the egr.

shoult

26th May 2018, 17:42

I have the heat shield but not the pipe. Im just gonna block off the egr.

Welcome to your check engine light.

matt.keith7

26th May 2018, 17:52

Welcome to your check engine light.

Even if I switch the vacuum connection feeding the boost sensor from the middle of the intake manifold to the vacuum nipple just behind the throttle body? That should prevent any egr codes eminating from the valve or from the vacuum sensing operation of it.

OKflyboy

26th May 2018, 18:56

Old damper out, new damper in. Lots of cleaning in and around the intake before reassembling and now she runs once again.

No fuel smell. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/b2812f132ea52a4f11c3852cb9599993.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180526/d05ab86bc56011686cb864abb83f276b.jpgI spoke too soon.

Today I disassembled the intake again and replaced the injector o-rings because I must have torn one when I reassembled everything last night.

*Now* it appears to be leak free.

josolanes

26th May 2018, 21:40

I went to possibly my favorite autocross to date today

It was a test and tune and was very laid back, no official timing and basically just keep hopping in line if you want to keep running

I got in 40+ runs and had a blast!! I also got great feedback from the other drivers and greatly improved my slalom technique especially (and spun 3 times, my first spin was today :D lol). I had this slight nervousness with spinning and was hoping to overcome it - pretty sure that's been accomplished!

shoult

26th May 2018, 21:51

Spent a few hours in the rented garage tonight dropping the engine/trans back into the chassis. The arm on the hoist turning out to be too short to put the engine back in with the bumper in place so........

https://i.imgur.com/MDcSh6S.jpg

Then....

https://i.imgur.com/gcsNtRo.jpg

And at the end of the day.....

https://i.imgur.com/6vf6M7u.jpg

Back at it again tomorrow

SquarePeg

26th May 2018, 22:22

Even then.

cruisin'n5thgear

26th May 2018, 22:58

I've been setting up my '00 for flat towing for the next cross country move (military), and I also reinstalled the rear trim panels behind the hardtop brackets. Bought a hard top five years ago and never got around to cutting holes in the trim panels to fit behind the brackets. Inside of the car looks a lot better now!

samhain00

27th May 2018, 00:55

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/40569947770_cb089ec1e6.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24P2A37)20180526_200425 (https://flic.kr/p/24P2A37) by h g (https://www.flickr.com/photos/150495070@N07/), on Flickr
Softtop delete

dweikum

27th May 2018, 02:45

I changed out the oil in my trans today for Redline...Smoother shifts all around!
Ordered a 23mm so I can do the diff next.

ridethecliche

27th May 2018, 10:27

Strong work Shoult!

josolanes

27th May 2018, 16:07

Got the videos uploaded from tested days test and tune!

31 runs recorded, probably another 10 or so I forgot to hit record on

https://forum.miata.net/vb/showpost.php?p=8962745&postcount=60

MN MX-5

27th May 2018, 19:40

It was hot enough today to put in the Cool Breeze Scoop I got for Christmas. 286914286915

Helitech

27th May 2018, 22:15

Washed my Red 2001 and drove it to town to pick up a couple of parts for my Blue 2001 Miata. Assembled and installed the replacement differential case. Reinstalled everything underneath it. Gave it a bath and pushed it inside the shop so I can do TB & WP.

Kmier

27th May 2018, 22:37

It was hot enough today to put in the Cool Breeze Scoop I got for Christmas. 286914286915

I just wish they did more than blow cool air at your right knee... [emoji37]

daender

28th May 2018, 17:50

Installed a set of Clearwater speakers that I purchased from forum member coreseller. I needed to replace my trusty Bose speakers and tweeters as they were developing that "buzz" and couldn't handle the house music I've been listening to as of late. I'm glad I'm able to keep my stock head unit and speed-sensitive volume control with these!

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/c_scale,f_auto,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/b01oomxzwwpk9atjf3c7.png

pacomutt

28th May 2018, 17:56

I just wish they did more than blow cool air at your right knee... [emoji37]

Can't they make those with moveable louvers inside? :confused:

shoult

28th May 2018, 18:06

Can't they make those with moveable louvers inside? :confused:

Sure they can. But not for 35.

13brv3

28th May 2018, 18:16

Mazda comp bushings installed in the "new" Torsen. Nothing like having the right tools for job, and I wish I did :-) Torsen installed, along with driveshaft, and PPF.

I also managed to install the Mazda comp engine mounts, which is one of those jobs you could do in 1/2 the time the second time. The drivers side was about 2/3 torn, and both were a bit shorter and drooped. Now the engine sits so high that I had to check to see if the hood would close :-)

Rusty (clutch hydraulics, suspension and exhaust remaining)

pacomutt

28th May 2018, 18:16

Sure they can. But not for 35.

So how much is the one that's actually practical and comfortable?

shoult

28th May 2018, 18:18

So how much is the one that's actually practical and comfortable?

Make one and find out.

cphilippou

28th May 2018, 18:21

I started to change the fuel filter. got the shield off, then realized I didn't wanna get into it... another day!

shoult

28th May 2018, 18:26

I started to change the fuel filter. got the shield off, then realized I didn't wanna get into it... another day!

Do you have extra clips and the right tool?

https://i.imgur.com/lz5EHNg.jpg

While it LOOKS like you should press the clips to release them, the tool actually slips under the clips and opens them up to free them from the bump at the end of the fuel pipe ends. Having new clips already installed on the fuel filter means you aren't fumbling around, trying to move the old clips to the new filter while fuel drips down your arm.

Kmier

28th May 2018, 19:40

Sure they can. But not for 35.

Its not so much that they need moveable louvers, just get it closer to being actually effective. Im not done tweaking mine. This, or Ive got another idea in the works.

Kmier

28th May 2018, 19:41

https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/c_scale,f_auto,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/b01oomxzwwpk9atjf3c7.png

Ive got no issues with mine. I think youll like em.

shoult

28th May 2018, 19:42

My idea was to move it over above he driver instead of being in the center. I haven't tried it yet, and I may not.

DJJ

28th May 2018, 19:50

My idea was to move it over above he driver instead of being in the center. I haven't tried it yet, and I may not.

I've tried it. It just creates annoying wind. I just turn the A/C on. It helps, even with the top down.

sharp3y3

28th May 2018, 20:31

One of my sidemarkers in the front stopped working. Thought it was the bulb so i replaced that and it still didnt work. So i knew it was the socket that holds the bulb and conmects to the connector socket. Threw it in vinegar pvernight and it works perfectly now.

Don’t underestimate the power of white vinegar my friends.

Helitech

28th May 2018, 20:58

Did a lot of work on Miata #1. Water Pump, timing belt and idlers, new timing belt covers. All back together and running! Also replaced all clutch hydraulics with new extended stainless flex line. It's all bled and ready. Removed left hand tupperware as well. Very busy day!

Spanner

28th May 2018, 22:21

Sunday and today have been really busy, so I’m finally getting around to putting my thoughts down.

https://s22.postimg.cc/3og4uv9rl/Selfie.jpg

1. A HUGE thanks to the Music City Mustang Club (http://musiccitymustangclub.org/) for a job well done. The event was safe and profession. All of the club members hosting the event were super friendly and helpful, in particular volunteer instructor Brian. I hope our paths cross again some day.

2. Thanks again to fellow m-nutter @JonK67 (https://forum.miata.net/vb/member.php?u=109840) who got me started in this. He’s a great guy, and I also enjoyed meeting his car “Vader,” which may be the first blown Miata owned by an m-nutter in the Nashville area. ;)

https://s22.postimg.cc/6wkm7gtc1/blown-vader.jpg

3. Atlanta Motorsports Park (AMP) is a FANTSTIC drive! The only place in N. America I’d rather be with a Miata is Laguna Seca, and AMP is a close second. Learning to drive this track was very rewarding.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3941/15482544190_e9e0f1a1a7_o.jpg

4. I was stunned at how well the Flyin’ Miata Koni Sport Stage II kit worked on the track for street wares. The car cornered super flat, was very neutral, and came loose at the rear slowly and predictably at the limit. Thanks to Steve at Panic Motorsports (http://www.panicmotorsports.com/) for the kit and Flyin’ Miata for helping me get it dialed in even though I didn’t buy it directly from them.

https://s22.postimg.cc/a257y3z81/FM_STII.jpg

https://s22.postimg.cc/dyiju3cht/flat.jpg

5. I would encourage anyone interested in driving their car on a track to attend next year's event with the Music City Mustang Club. The cost was very reasonable. In the novice class you can push your car as little or much as you like and enjoy driving it on a race track.

6. One final thought: There is nothing like lapping faster than guys with $40,000, 350 hp Mustangs in a mostly stock $5,000, 140 hp Miata! :rofl:

https://s22.postimg.cc/65rw23ysx/chasing-the-_Stangs.jpg

dbrich

29th May 2018, 06:44

Took advantage of the long weekend and summer heat to stay inside and finally recover my worn out leather seat covers. Purchased the katzkin leather covers last November ,both seats feel and look great. Car smells good with the top up.

josolanes

29th May 2018, 07:22

Yesterday I finally bolted down my phone holder (PanaVise). Passengers often knocked it out (and the radio surround) with their knees before. Now it should stay in place

Toybreaker

29th May 2018, 09:10

Pulled the stock Ca exhaust manifold and mid pipe.... only to discover that I had a broken manifold since I owned the car.... header to be installed in the next few days....

Fahqu

29th May 2018, 12:25

Reset my CEL after a p0420 popped on after i did my plugs/wires, then took it on a spin to see if it re-emerged (it stayed off). Using the search function I found common results ranging from bad ignition to a bad cat, and all of the said above are replaced. Also read that the p0420 can kill a cat, so I guess I wont be bringing my cat for any rides soon.

Side note: Does anybody ride in the rain with the top down? Rode through an area that had 4 tornado touchdowns in one afternoon with the top down two days ago, that was fun.

shoult

29th May 2018, 12:28

A P0420 can't kill a cat. A P0420 is a dead Fed Spec cat. A P030x (and driving through it) is normally what kills a cat. Anytime you have a flashing CEL you should stop the car and turn off the engine to save the cat.

Fahqu

29th May 2018, 12:43

This is what I found of potentials:
A damaged or failed oxygen sensor (HO2S)
Downstream oxygen sensor (HO2S) wiring damaged or connected improperly
The engine coolant temperature sensor is not working properly
Damaged or leaking exhaust manifold / catalytic converter / muffler / exhaust pipe
Retarded spark timing
The oxygen sensors in front and behind the converter are reporting too similar of readings
Leaking fuel injector or high fuel pressure
Cylinder misfire
Oil contamination

The light was solid and the car was running and continued to run great (and I didn't have a scan tool on me while driving) so I drove it home about 60 miles without any issues. Reset the light, and it has not come on. If it has not come on since then, I am assuming the best (misfire)

Woodstudio

29th May 2018, 13:19

Could you post a picture? Katzkin makes a nice product.

pacomutt

29th May 2018, 17:24

Finally finished my valve adjustment. It took the dealer from May 21st until today to get the needed shims and the cam seals in! :(
Pulling the camshafts was the easy way to do this job.

pfk1106

29th May 2018, 18:08

.? Katzkin site says they only sell to installer? Looks like a nice product though.

shoult

29th May 2018, 18:12

They'll sell to anyone who will pay.

spartantrap

29th May 2018, 20:01

Katzkin are nice and well made; but a little on the expensive side... Mr Mike's leatherette reupholstery kit I have on order is $509 and just as good of quality

Just search on google for photos of his work; a couple members on here (I believe who own NAs) have his upholstery too, I know Raydar had an NA with his upholstery kit

Just another option :dunno:

Warhammer

29th May 2018, 23:06

I added clear repeaters to my fenders:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/41542661025_4d37474c04_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26hYZNi)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1724/41542660055_e739f58765_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26hYZvz)

Orangello

30th May 2018, 15:41

WH, looks nice, but i'm getting Vanishing Point flashes; be nice to the popos.

patchelect

30th May 2018, 19:22

With his parents permission I took my 5 year old grandson for a spin. Shut the Airbag off, put him in his seat, and took off for a slow 30MPH drive. Part way into the journey he was yelling at me "Go Faster!". I wanted to, but managed to restrain myself.

When he gets older!

Oh yeah, my wife promised him the car when he starts driving. Didn't ask me! I'll be in my 80's by then so who knows! OTOH, he may have to wait another decade longer as long as I can still get in and out!

seangh

30th May 2018, 22:51

When he gets older!

Nice! Ive been taking my granddaughter on drives since she was 3. She puts her hands in air, faster papa faster! She thinks its a roller coaster ride, love it. She wants the Miata as long as I paint it pink before I give it to her. [emoji38]

13brv3

30th May 2018, 23:01

I finished the FM VMaxx Stage 2 Sport suspension. Maybe one of these days the car will be back on the ground...

Rusty

dbrich

31st May 2018, 06:16

Could you post a picture? Katzkin makes a nice product.Sure, here is a photo. Local upholstery were asking $200 per seat to install the seat covers.287088

sloopercat

31st May 2018, 08:37

I finished the FM VMaxx Stage 2 Sport suspension. Maybe one of these days the car will be back on the ground...

Rusty

Nothing, just testing.

shoult

31st May 2018, 09:48

With the 02 up on stands Im really reliant on my 01 for Miata enjoyment. The other day on the way to work it started stumbling after about 15 miles. By the time I got to work it was full on missing. I pulled out my spare CAS confident that would solve the problem. And it felt like it did. For about 5 miles. So off to the garage where my real tools are living now. I pulled the coils from the 02 and swapped those in. So far so good. But I havent driven very far yet. Well see if it lasts the day.

cardinalsfanokc

31st May 2018, 10:47

Such a busy day on the 2001 yesterday. I was really in the zone and got a lot accomplished.

Potted the bose bypass with hot glue
I didn't wanna use electrical tape and risk wires pulling out so I basically sealed the whole connector with hot glue, seems to work well so far
Installed new head unit
It's a nice kenwood digital media only unit, I love it so far with the new speakers as well
Installed Ultragauge
This thing is sweet. I need to do more setup on it and fix the ODB2 connector a bit but I like it
Installed quick release steering wheel
Skateboard grip tape on clutch/brake
Installed top radiator plate
Installed part of painted radio surround trim

Even with all that done I still have a ton to do: shifter rebuild, LRB Aero under tray install, change diff and trans fluid, install new rotors and pads and bleed brake system, install my eclipse vents, install horn and antenna switches, clean and polish the exterior, replace drivers side tail light

Warhammer

31st May 2018, 16:35

Another little mod today. I have a Eunos "V" badge on the way from Adam @ Revlimiter for the nose of the car. I took some inspiration from Porsche for some rebadging on the rear end.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/42429868072_9fc71b5b05_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27Doaxw)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/28608376408_de4e68d653_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KA2pB7)

The font is called "911 Porsha", lol! I only had some cheap crafting-grade vinyl on hand, so this is just temporary. I'll redo it with better vinyl when I relieve an order placed. Since this isn't permanent, I did two different versions; closer and wider spacing. I'm trying to decide which I like better. I may even get some 1/8" plastic letters made to replace the vinyl. Any thoughts on the spacing? Which looks better? I'm leaning toward the wider version.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/42429864412_d003e61411_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27Do9sq)

cphilippou

31st May 2018, 16:59

Sure, here is a photo. Local upholstery were asking $200 per seat to install the seat covers.287088

Holy SMOKES those looks comfortable!

Helitech

31st May 2018, 20:43

Found a great place for these today! Anywhere but not on Miata #1. 287116

Helitech

31st May 2018, 21:41

Actually got to drive Miata #1 for the first time since since the rear end accident on April 13th. Replaced trunk lid, bumper cover and differential housing. Did a lot of other maintenance while it was down. Ditched the tupperware as well!287118287119

ohiobart

31st May 2018, 22:29

Day 2 with the car.

Yesterday - got it home, checked all fluids, replaced two rear bumper fasteners, removed bumper stickers, detailed the interior, found out that the gas gauge is not accurate, went for a night drive.

Today - put air in the tires, drove it everywhere, transferred the title, registered the car, put legal plates on it, drove it everywhere again. I now have sunburn.

13brv3

1st June 2018, 06:45

The marathon of mods continues. I installed the FM full exhaust, which fit perfectly. I also realized that the bottom of the car looks better than the top now :D

Rusty (might actually get it off the lift Sat)

basil_parphoof_lll

1st June 2018, 09:51

:thumbs::thumbs:Day 2 with the car.

Yesterday - got it home, checked all fluids, replaced two rear bumper fasteners, removed bumper stickers, detailed the interior, found out that the gas gauge is not accurate, went for a night drive.

Today - put air in the tires, drove it everywhere, transferred the title, registered the car, put legal plates on it, drove it everywhere again. I now have sunburn.

Orangello

1st June 2018, 15:20

...got it home, checked all fluids, replaced two rear bumper fasteners, removed bumper stickers, detailed the interior, found out that the gas gauge is not accurate, went for a night drive.

I am glad that happened in the order it did.

Unusualdesigner

1st June 2018, 17:51

Today... nothing :dunno:

But last weekend.... :D

Saturday drove to a club event and picked up a slightly "weathered" '01 LS in Emerald Mica for my friend. Mechanically it's all good!

Right now it's in my driveway getting baselined and having some small issues addressed. Yesterday I removed the aftermarket alarm system that was draining the battery.

My friend is super happy, her white NA got rear ended almost 2 months ago; she's been Miata-less [except when she drives one of mine :D] -until now.

Spanner

1st June 2018, 19:10

With track day behind me, I adjusted the sway bars and shocks back to full soft and put insulation in the tunnels over the wheels while the trunk was apart. Now it's time for a wash if the rain goes away...

Krack

1st June 2018, 22:03

finally replaced bose HU with a kenwood. still using bose amp & speeqers.
nice to finally have native bluetooth support.

Philpug

1st June 2018, 22:28

Put the top up, not because I had to but because I wanted to. So there.

Kmier

2nd June 2018, 06:08

Spanner, what type of noise insulation did you use?

Spanner

2nd June 2018, 07:24

Spanner, what type of noise insulation did you use?

GreenFiber R60 40-sq ft Cellulose Blown-in Insulation with Sound Barrier (https://m.lowes.com/pd/GreenFiber-R60-40-sq-ft-Cellulose-Blown-in-Insulation-with-Sound-Barrier/3227256)

It made a pretty big difference. Mrs. Spanner and I were out and had to drive home with the top up. We forgot that I had done it until we realized that the car sounded different--we both noticed that wind noise was more prevalent and you could easily hear the fuel pump. Dynamat (or equivalent) is going over that later.

Spitandsputter

2nd June 2018, 10:20

finally replaced bose HU with a kenwood. still using bose amp & speeqers.
nice to finally have native bluetooth support.

Did this improve the Bose boominess and improve overall sound quality? Im considering doing the same thing so I can sync music via Bluetooth.

MarkEt

2nd June 2018, 13:03

Replaced the W5W light bulbs for the licence plate and the front lights. Yup. Three burnt bulbs in two years.

Replaced the center brake light. Did not work. Found out there was a (missing, not even burnt) fuse for this very brake light.

Fixed the soft top latches. Its been two years since I got this car, of course they never patched properly and I finally gathered the black screws, the time and a sunny day with no chance of rain to get it done.

Drilled two 3mm holes after disassembling the latches, tapered these to M4, inserted two screws. Done. Brillant. Love the result.

MarkEt

2nd June 2018, 13:03

Considered getting some alpine speakers to match my CarPlay head unit. Im lazy. What size are these ?

shoult

2nd June 2018, 13:06

Considered getting some alpine speakers to match my CarPlay head unit. Im lazy. What size are these ?

I'm too lazy to tell you the holes in the door are 8" round.

MarkEt

2nd June 2018, 13:11

I'm too lazy to tell you the holes in the door are 8" round.

Id offer you a beer for this piece of info, but the fridge is so far away from this couch...

josolanes

2nd June 2018, 13:15

Spanner, what type of noise insulation did you use?
For what its worth, I got the cheapest soft pillows I can find and filled the rear tire tunnels with them. Its worked really well also :)

MarkEt

2nd June 2018, 13:17

Got round to restoring the leather of a spare NB10AE driving wheel I found on eBay couple of weeks ago.

The pretty nice job I had done on mine two years ago, well, came off. I guess I did not degrease the leather quite enough on the first wheel.

The custom blue stuff from Alta Cuir is still impressive.

Hey ! That was a productive day. I have to replace the bottom-of-the-windshield large plastic piece tomorrow, and remove the back wheels to adjust the hand brake. It doesnt brake much anymore, and I already re-tensioned the wire twice. Its Allen key time I guess.

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