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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spitefulcheerio

13th December 2011, 11:09

Bought myself and my NB a new toy for Christmas (http://s155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/03%20Miata%20engine/?albumview=slideshow). It's an 03 engine with 87K on the dial. Comes with all the accessories, the 01+ exhaust and a complete engine loom.

So the plan is to swap my .020 shaved 00 head onto the 03 block with a BP5A Cam and an 01+ header. Get this all done before the end of January (when my tags run out) in my apartment parking lot. I'm going to rent a small space to do the assembly and then drop the completed engine in at the apt complex. I WILL dyno it at this point before computer tuning. Still debating DPTune vs MegaSquirt but since this is about as far as I will develop the engine (maybe a complete RoadsterSport exhaust) the DPTune may get the nod. Once tuned I'll dyno again. I'll post both whatever they turn out to be in the Dyno plot forum.

Looks clean! I vote for a header and full exhaust over stock :) but mmmmmmmmm square top :slight drool:

Still looking for one that is cheaper than $500 haha

lhhernandez

13th December 2011, 12:11

I have always liked white roadsters. Had a white/black Fiat 124. I also like the bra. I have one that I have worn out. I never had any scratches under mine. Just left some wax under it and took it off in the rain.

Had a white 1970 MGB with a bra. That is the main reason I went with the white NB.

I like checking under the BRA.:cool:

I always clean under the bra and make sure there is a nice coat of wax. No wear.

texasmr2

13th December 2011, 12:42

I'm a huge fan of MGB's and will never forget my first drive in one :thumbs: .

shoult

13th December 2011, 13:17

I'm a huge fan of MGB's and will never forget my first drive in one :thumbs: .

I've always loved MGBs, but after 24 of them (17 at one time in 1992!) I will NEVER own another. I WILL always enjoy driving other peoples well maintained examples though.

BGrigg

13th December 2011, 13:27

I've always loved MGBs, but after 24 of them (17 at one time in 1992!) I will NEVER own another. I WILL always enjoy driving other peoples well maintained examples though.

You've earned your rest! Wow, 17 at one time. Did you spend all day topping up oil and fixing shorts? :rofl:

lhhernandez

13th December 2011, 13:54

I've always loved MGBs, but after 24 of them (17 at one time in 1992!) I will NEVER own another. I WILL always enjoy driving other peoples well maintained examples though.

17 at one time,wow you must be a glutton for punishment. :bang:

shoult

13th December 2011, 13:55

You've earned your rest! Wow, 17 at one time. Did you spend all day topping up oil and fixing shorts? :rofl:

It took parts from all 17 to keep three or four running. At the same time I was developing my taste for Japanese sports cars with my '85 MR2. No blown fuses, no oil leaks. Just get in, turn the key and drive...... and WAY faster than even my best MGB. Lesson learned.

X-Ray Rich

13th December 2011, 14:01

Got a buyer for the PEP spoiler yet?

To be honest, it's not worth the bother to me.
You can buy a Brand New OEM unit here (http://compare.ebay.com/like/200671912662) for $81.00.
Though it's e-bay, I've bought from him and have no problem recommending him.
He might even have one in your Color.

chiefmg

13th December 2011, 14:20

I removed the PEP Rear Deck Spoiler.
Cleaned the Deck surface real good including old Adhesive.
Preparation is to install an MSM Spoiler when I get it back from the Paint Shop this week.
It's supposed to get in the 60s Thursday and will be a Good day to install it..

Two questions for you. Where did you source the MSM spoiler, and do the fasteners to attach it to the trunk lid match the location of the ones on your old spoiler?

X-Ray Rich

13th December 2011, 14:51

Two questions for you. Where did you source the MSM spoiler, and do the fasteners to attach it to the trunk lid match the location of the ones on your old spoiler?

I wanted this part for several years but was unwilling to pay $600 (Same price as a New Spoiler) being asked by Recyclers.
I saw in the MSM sub-forum, here on M.net. that a member was parting-out an MSM.
One of the parts was the Trunk Lid and Spoiler for considerably less than listed by Marketplace Recyclers.
I did not need the Trunk nor want the shipping cost of it and he was willing to separate them.

The attachments are exactly the same for both pieces.
Two 10mm bolts, one on each side and one 10mm nut in the Center.
Adhesive Tape is utilized along the Front Edge of the Spoiler.

boomercarguy

13th December 2011, 14:59

I've always loved MGBs, but after 24 of them (17 at one time in 1992!) I will NEVER own another. I WILL always enjoy driving other peoples well maintained examples though.

In my college years, I worked as a lifeguard and at the same time, owned a 1963 MG Midget. The best swimming pool and the best Brit car is someone else's that you can borrow -- but not own.

Drvalu

13th December 2011, 16:51

Changed the tranny fluid today and put in MC full synthetic.....can feel a difference already in the 1-2 shift after 50 miles. Good stuff.

chiefmg

13th December 2011, 19:33

The attachments are exactly the same for both pieces.
Two 10mm bolts, one on each side and one 10mm nut in the Center.
Adhesive Tape is utilized along the Front Edge of the Spoiler.

That's great news on the attachments, I wasn't able to find anyone who knew the answer to that one. Guess I'll just keep my eyeballs peeled for one. Thanks.

revsmx5

13th December 2011, 20:17

I got rid of my Triangle Talon tires and put on a set of 195/60/15 Uniroyal's. The car rides better, handles better and most important - the bouncing at 65 is now only the slightest shimmer of a vibration... not bad. :jump::rofl: Rear shocks are next... kip

UncleJ

13th December 2011, 20:27

Worked on clearing a P0401.

Tink

13th December 2011, 23:01

New Wheels

http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?p=5501320#post5501320

P2000mx5

14th December 2011, 00:10

I'm a huge fan of MGB's and will never forget my first drive in one :thumbs: .

ive got A 67 tr4a irs wanna buy

Letit*now

14th December 2011, 00:51

Airbag code 49: OFF bulb out. Pulled the console and faceplate. Removed the airbag disable module. Bulb looked great! Tested at 10 ohms - good. Checked the wiring diagram - light green to black/yellow - short. Light green to one of the bulb housing contacts - good. Black/yellow to the other contact - good.

One of the tangs on the bulb housing was recessed where it wouldn't meet the module. A little push with a tiny screwdriver, and life was good!

mia&tia

14th December 2011, 01:34

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6509150227_e66c060de8_b.jpg

Gave my car a bath.

texasmr2

14th December 2011, 10:25

ive got A 67 tr4a irs wanna buy

Sorry but my Miata project is at a stand still already.:(

X-Ray Rich

14th December 2011, 11:16

I just got the call from the Body Shop.
I'll pick up my Painted MSM Spoiler this afternoon.
Tomorrow the weather will be in the Mid 60s and I'll install it and the new Tail-light Bezels.
I'll take a Pic and post it here.

texasmr2

14th December 2011, 11:47

I look forward to the pics because I really want one for my '99. Gonna drill and mount myself if possible.

X-Ray Rich

14th December 2011, 11:59

I look forward to the pics because I really want one for my '99. Gonna drill and mount myself if possible.

In a little while, this afternoon, I'll measure the Bolt-hole locations and post them.
That should help those that don't have pre-existing holes

X-Ray Rich

14th December 2011, 12:11

Got a buyer for the PEP spoiler yet?

Here is the Link for the New Spoiler in Strato Blue (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mazda-Miata-MX-5-Strato-Blue-rear-spoiler-99-05-YUMMY-/200671912668?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item2eb8fa62dc#ht_500wt_969) to match your car.
It's $75 plus $6 shipping.

Rdrcr

14th December 2011, 12:47

Installed my Koyo 37mm radiator! :thumbs:

Mike

texasmr2

14th December 2011, 13:21

Installed my Koyo 37mm radiator! :thumbs:

Mike

Nice, any before and after pics??

X-Ray Rich

14th December 2011, 16:14

Here's a Pic of the Trunk with measurements of the OEM Spoiler Mounting Holes
Side holes are 3/4" from the side and 19" back from the Leading Edge of the Trunk.
Center hole is 17" back from the Leading Edge of the Trunk.
The holes are 5/16" in Diameter.
The Red Dots at the Leading Edge of the Trunk approximate where I measured back from.

http://forum.miata.net/vb/picture.php?albumid=1574&pictureid=7312

It was nice enough, Temp. wise, that I cleaned the Tail-lights and mounted the Rear Light Bezels.
I'll take Pics of those when I get the Spoiler mounted tomorrow.

Rdrcr

14th December 2011, 17:12

Nice, any before and after pics??

I dont have any recent before pictures but, you can get the idea. Here are some pics;

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/FFSinstall026.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/S2TCTSPaddle019.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/S2TCTSPaddle021.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/S2TCTSPaddle022.jpg

Mike

texasmr2

15th December 2011, 09:23

Beautiful and oh so clean. :)

P2000mx5

15th December 2011, 18:29

got my act r4 in

Gun Bunny

15th December 2011, 21:25

Straightened out the front license plate bracket in the aftermath of a bobcat. Now if my dealer would finally get me my plates :mad:

gregkl

15th December 2011, 21:26

Dropped off my control arms, spindles and brake dust shields to be sandblasted.

MarkVegas

15th December 2011, 21:35

Replaced my battery - Autozone Duralast Gold - $104.00 - engine now spins right up!

EricV

15th December 2011, 21:54

Black w/ green stitching gaitorboots for the shifter and e-brake. NGK plug wires :jump:

hfasianinvasion

15th December 2011, 22:01

Gave my car a bath.

High five for Koseis!

X-Ray Rich

16th December 2011, 12:31

Installed the MSM Spoiler and NB Tail-light Bezels.

The MSM Spoiler is Narrower, front to back, than the PEP Spoiler.
There were some imperfections under the Leading of the PEP that I couldn't remove.
The MSM didn't cover them.
So this Summer I'll remove the Trunk Lid and have it Painted too.

http://forum.miata.net/vb/picture.php?albumid=1574&pictureid=7315

Lokrien

16th December 2011, 12:47

Nice! Looks very sharp on there. How much was it to get it painted? I think the bezels look great too.

Didn't do much anything to mine, but got my FM midpipe in so now I can do the entire exhaust up nicely, then the BP5A cam and cops! Soon!

X-Ray Rich

16th December 2011, 13:30

Nice! Looks very sharp on there. How much was it to get it painted? I think the bezels look great too.

Painting and prep cost for the Spoiler was $104.00
Total cost for the Mod adds up to $319
New they are $600 unpainted.

Shazbat

16th December 2011, 13:32

Put new tires on my new-to-me MSM! Replaced the PO's Triangle Talons (noisy, uncomfortable, and slippery) with some Continental ExtremeContact DWS, quiet, comfortable, and grippy! I went up to 205 45 17 from the 205 40 17 which may account for some of the comfort, but this is like driving a new car!!!

Jasons72

16th December 2011, 13:48

ordered new 01 to 05 headlights, looking for an 01 to 05 bumper, and as soon as i get home for leave i'm installing my new wheels and tires.

shoult

16th December 2011, 14:04

Congrats! With the new tire size your speedo might actually be close to correct at 70 mph.

What did I do to my 2000 NB today? I received the tracking number for the new engine 2003 I purchased. Still waiting for the number to actually return some info. Like expected delivery date.

Gun Bunny

16th December 2011, 18:12

Adjusted the trunk lid latch, was a little high. And yes, I know she needs a bath... :rolleyes:

Before:
134003
134004
After:
134005
134006

shoult

17th December 2011, 16:50

Since the sun was out and the temps were reasonable I put off the roadtrip I had planned for the NA to make it cross the 200K mile mark and spent a couple hours preparing the NB to have it's head off yet again.

The new 03 engine is in Atlanta and is supposed to be delivered the 21st (Merry Christmas to ME!).

Well the sun is still shining but it's gotten cold out so now is the time to push the NA those last 40 miles past 200,000. See ya later..... ROADTRIP!

bigdave

17th December 2011, 17:58

installed a Nautilus air horn. great little package, and only took about 10 minutes to swap.

WOW! it's loud. can't wait for the opportunity to blow it at a truck.

Thumper 13

17th December 2011, 18:21

installed a Nautilus air horn. great little package, and only took about 10 minutes to swap.

WOW! it's loud. can't wait for the opportunity to blow it at a truck.

I have one,it's not as loud as you think at 65+mph. The truck will never hear you.

chemwarrior

17th December 2011, 18:24

installed a Nautilus air horn. great little package, and only took about 10 minutes to swap.

WOW! it's loud. can't wait for the opportunity to blow it at a truck.

That's funny you did that today because I installed a Lincoln Town Car horn that I pulled from the junk yard today. I was about to buy a Wolo from a local auto parts store but thought I would try the junk yard first. The install was also pretty staightforward. I just had to run a ground wire, change to a 20amp fuse and adjust the mount so the dual horns could fit without hitting the radiator. Sounds awesome!!! I too can't wait to try it out on an unsuspecting, distracted driver. :D

bigdave

17th December 2011, 18:27

I have one,it's not as loud as you think at 65+mph. The truck will never hear you.

LOL.... no one can hear your horn in Florida because it's populated by old grey haired retirees that are deaf.

X-Ray Rich

17th December 2011, 18:37

installed a Nautilus air horn. great little package, and only took about 10 minutes to swap.

WOW! it's loud. can't wait for the opportunity to blow it at a truck.

I'm looking for a couple of 6v Horns from an Early 50s Truck.

I had a '54 Chevy 3900 that I converted to 12v.
I left the Horn circuit as it was, 6v.
Man, Those Horns were LOUD.

1000a

17th December 2011, 18:56

On Thursday installed an NRG radiator diversion panel, drilled a hole in center console empty slot container, threaded the wire for the Scangauge behind the dash and centered the Scangauge in the empty slot using 1x2 and pipe foam. Looks better and is more user friendly now :), will work on its final visual appearance when I can.

Continuing to enjoy the MX5 Cup car at VIR in iRacing, what a blast. Ghost raced with 5 other MX5s at Lime Rock Park the other night.

Rdrcr

17th December 2011, 20:53

Installed the 949 Racing 15x9 6UL's and 225-45-15 Nitto NT01's! :thumbs:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul019.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul010.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul016.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul012.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul020.jpg

Mike

SLVMX5

17th December 2011, 21:19

Finally finished up my trunk popper set up, got it wired to my alarm so I can pop it via remote. Need to get around to attaching it to switch from inside but the remote for now is great!

acedeuce802

17th December 2011, 21:30

Bought it! Then put my hardtop on!

Racing_Green

17th December 2011, 22:15

Nice Rdrcr! What offset are those wheels and what's your ride height? Rolled fenders?

Rdrcr

17th December 2011, 22:46

Nice Rdrcr! What offset are those wheels and what's your ride height? Rolled fenders?

Thank you!

The 15x9 6UL's have a + 36mm offset. I'm not entirely sure on the ride height... the cars is riding on FM V-Maxx... I think it is around 12.5 inches. The fenders have not been rolled and I haven't experienced any rubbing issues.

Mike

RC 94

17th December 2011, 23:48

gregkl

18th December 2011, 10:01

Ordered various suspension bits and pieces(boots, a few bushings, long bolts, etc.), some paint for the control arms, spindles, brake dust shields, FM sways.

chemwarrior

18th December 2011, 10:18

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul012.jpg

I like how Bride is reflected on your rearview mirror. You have one clean ride sir. I'm assuming yours is BRG as well since it's a 2001, but I don't see any SE badges on the side.

gregkl

18th December 2011, 11:17

I like how Bride is reflected on your rearview mirror. You have one clean ride sir. I'm assuming yours is BRG as well since it's a 2001, but I don't see any SE badges on the side.

Looks like Emerald Mica to me.

texasmr2

18th December 2011, 11:28

Installed the 949 Racing 15x9 6UL's and 225-45-15 Nitto NT01's! :thumbs:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul019.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul010.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul016.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul012.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b272/ShoeiIto/Miata6ul020.jpg

Mike

Very very nice.

Rdrcr

18th December 2011, 13:53

^^^^
Thank you!

I like how Bride is reflected on your rearview mirror. You have one clean ride sir. I'm assuming yours is BRG as well since it's a 2001, but I don't see any SE badges on the side.

I like how that pic came out too. I didn't plan or even see the Bride logo reflected in the mirror until I uploaded the pictures. :thumbs:

It's Emerald Mica... she's only a base model. :D

Mike

gregkl

18th December 2011, 16:08

Finally got the section of bolt out of my rear uprights(spindle).

Cut out a section of my frame rail to ready it for a patch. Last year I had a body shop patch a 1.5" hole and they did it by welding a large bolt in the hole. I don't know if this is SOP for body shops these days but I am not a happy camper right now! I have now cut out a 3" X 3" opening, removing all the rust. Next step is to decide to rent or buy a welder or see if a friend of mine will bring his over and help me do a proper patch.

wrusprod

18th December 2011, 16:09

wow! yeah, that looks great!! nice job!

P2000mx5

18th December 2011, 18:33

[QUOTE=Rdrcr;5507477]Installed the 949 Racing 15x9 6UL's and 225-45-15 Nitto NT01's! :thumbs:

super impressed :thumbs:

RC 94

18th December 2011, 20:06

Didn't have time to take pictures today, but I took one after washing it when I was playing around with my droid and trying to find a decent angle. It looks about 10x better than this picture after all the stuff done to it.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy175/HippoKitten/IMG_20111217_162753.jpg

gregkl

18th December 2011, 20:20

Looks good.:thumbs: What roll bar is that? Oh and FWIW, I had a ladder leaning against a wall and between either my wife or my son, they knocked it over and put two nice impressions in the quarter panel of my wife's Accord.:eek:

RC 94

18th December 2011, 20:29

Thanks! I wish I had a decent camera to get some good shots of it. The shine on it is incredible. The rollbar is a M2 Hard Core Double Diagonal. I get nervous about that ladder, so I tied it to the wall last night. No more thoughts of it falling on the car! :D

Shazbat

18th December 2011, 20:53

I see lots of folks installing real horns! I installed a four-note set from a '72 Eldorado ($20 on ebay). Not only do they sound nice (nothing quite like an arpeggio chord), trucks and blue-haired ladies actually hear them...what a concept! Of course the first time my wife heard them, she thought we were about to be hit by a train!

Silvia

19th December 2011, 06:07

Had an epiphany and decided I was sick of elbow rash from where my elbow naturally rests while driving - on the lid of the second bin of the console. Nice that the lid opens a bit to fit my elbow somewhat, but a couple of dollars worth of sticky-backed 3mm black foam , cut to fit neatly on top of both the bin lids, now means my elbow is blissfully resting on soft foam which enhances my driving enjoyment considerably - and even looks pretty cool too! ;)

J3cubrc

19th December 2011, 09:11

To appease my car's anger at me for getting it in the grass sideways, I put around 5 hours into it through various cleaning activities. Washed, waxed, used various interior cleaners, and did some engine bay cleaning. Looks stunning. Might have some pictures tomorrow of it.
RC: can you tell me how to detail the engine bay. I have a '99 and wish to do this. Want to begin with the underside of the hood, which I can handle, but welcome input. What did you use to clean the valve cover and intake manifold. Thanks in advance

RC 94

19th December 2011, 10:38

RC: can you tell me how to detail the engine bay. I have a '99 and wish to do this. Want to begin with the underside of the hood, which I can handle, but welcome input. What did you use to clean the valve cover and intake manifold. Thanks in advance

There's a bunch of different ways to do it. Some people take a power washer and just go off on the engine bay, some people hose it down and scrub with whatever utensil they have. I had a mixture that sort of loosened the dirt and I put a little water with it as well. Just need to be careful around paint with it. It's honestly not that much different from cleaning the car. You just have to take a couple precautions to not damage stuff with whatever you are using.

RazzCat

19th December 2011, 11:48

Maybe this'll help: http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=428218&page=2

Have fun... :)

cruisin'n5thgear

19th December 2011, 12:42

Re-soldered the connections on my speed sensor. They had come completely unconnected - surprisingly, all that held them on to the back of the sensor was some molded plastic at the back of the sensor housing. I presume that the wires were lightly soldered in, then melted plastic was poured in to cover the recess in the back of the housing.

After soldering the wires back on, I filled the back of the recess with hot glue. Saved myself the $150 and am back on the road for free!

J3cubrc

19th December 2011, 13:31

Maybe this'll help: http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=428218&page=2

Have fun... :)
Thanks Razzcat, The link is what I needed. Mostly curious about what solvents will clean the painted areas and not damage the paint. I won't be blasting the engine bay with water, I have all winter to do a piece at a time. I see a bunch of people paint their valve covers. I think that I will just want to clean mine and paint the embossed letters in rd to match the car.

Thanks again

langus

19th December 2011, 13:32

Drove my new Miata for the first time to work today :)

jestmaty

19th December 2011, 13:37

Drove my new Miata for the first time to work today :)

Nice....

I remember that day just over a year ago... when you get to go to work in a vert!

My wife says that, no matter how busy or bad her day went, she gets a 'mood adjustment' if she can drop the top down on the 10 mile drive home

Welcome to miata.net :wave:

Sinaz

19th December 2011, 16:10

I, uh... rebuilt my NB's alternator over the weekend. Most proudest repair I've ever done to a vehicle.

96Formula6spd

20th December 2011, 00:13

Drove the car. Now got a burning smell from under the dash. Smells like burning electronics.....this cant be good. Also the electrics are acting funny. Hopefully it can get me to work and back so I can fix the problem.

gregkl

20th December 2011, 07:54

Thanks Razzcat, The link is what I needed. Mostly curious about what solvents will clean the painted areas and not damage the paint. I won't be blasting the engine bay with water, I have all winter to do a piece at a time. I see a bunch of people paint their valve covers. I think that I will just want to clean mine and paint the embossed letters in rd to match the car.

Thanks again

I have had good success using citrus based cleaners. I have not had any paint damage from the one I use either. I also use Dawn dish washing liquid. And if you are removing anything to clean, Brake Clean works good but it's strong stuff so I wouldn't use it on anything painted.

I painted my cam cover, but I had it sandblasted first so I could get a nice surface to paint.

tommyo

20th December 2011, 14:32

Cleaned the IM and TB because I got the EGR code. Is there any preventative measures that can be taken to prevent this hole from plugging up? Detergent gas?

cruisin'n5thgear

20th December 2011, 15:44

Washed, waxed, and Armor All'd the Miata today. And a short photo shoot to boot.

shoult

20th December 2011, 15:56

Cleaned the IM and TB because I got the EGR code. Is there any preventative measures that can be taken to prevent this hole from plugging up? Detergent gas?

Seems to be a maintenance chore every 20-40K miles.

Gun Bunny

20th December 2011, 20:17

Oil changes for the crankcase, tranny and diff.

chiefmg

20th December 2011, 23:40

Finally got my HID-modified headlights installed and working with the new harness. Raining out though so I didn't take it out. They look great in the garage though. Now I just have to figure out why the catch can is filling up with oil.

spitefulcheerio

20th December 2011, 23:59

Wired in the AC fan to run with the cooling fan and installed a 160* degree thermostat. Way mo betta cooling

shoult

21st December 2011, 09:39

Yellow-Roadway Freight tracking says my 03 engine is out for delivery. Good thing I brought the van today.

P2000mx5

21st December 2011, 12:34

motor and trans in drive shaft on and then the rain came pics to come on my build thread

shoult

21st December 2011, 16:15

I took delivery of my 03 engine. Now I have a dual engine 93 Ford Aerostar!

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/03%20Miata%20engine/03%20Engine%20Delivery/IMG_1280.jpg

dfitz

21st December 2011, 16:28

We got back north for Christmas last week. Today I walked by our covered 2003 that is stored for the winter and sighed...

I came inside and found a e-mail from our daughter who is vacationing at our Florida place and she wrote that she had just returned from a drive in our 1999 10AE - seems that in Florida her Genesis Coupe is playing second fiddle to the Miata - but then we all knew that is only reasonable...

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone

chemwarrior

21st December 2011, 17:36

We got back north for Christmas last week. Today I walked by our covered 2003 that is stored for the winter and sighed...

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone

That's funny because I have a 2010 Genesis Coupe V6 Track and I find myself driving the Miata more and more. When I want power I drive the GC but when I want a driving experience I drive the Miata.

Shazbat

21st December 2011, 20:21

Changed the oil in my NTM MSM. PO didn't bother to use a gasket on the drain plug - instead he decided 200 ft-lbs of torque would keep it from leaking!!!

bigdave

21st December 2011, 20:23

had the dealer do a service on mine today.

Letit*now

21st December 2011, 21:01

shoult - that looks exactly backwards of my twin-engine Forester when it was STUFFED with a 3.3L H6 for my former SVX! :D

As for what I did to my NB... I received a KOYO V2277 new in the box from some fella on eBay - $175 to the door. It's still in its original plastic seal in its original box, and I can't find a thing wrong with it. Any reason I should feel leery?
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w187/Letit*now_photos/00Miata/2011/12/21/KOYO_Radiator.jpg

inheritthefire

21st December 2011, 21:54

I'm gonna go out on a limb and say HELL NO! That's a nice radiator.

What I did to my Miata: Nothing... haven't seen her since Sunday, the mechanic is waiting on parts to finish repairing her.

lawrence500

22nd December 2011, 03:40

I installed Tan Ostrich(not real ostrich) seat covers - feels like leather; Stock was dark grey fabric.

I love it - changes the entire look and feel of the car, from the outside and inside. The seat feels and looks a bit bigger too, and slightly more comfortable too.

I highly rec. it, if you're looking for a change. Makes the car look slightly more exotic/expensive.

smckinley

22nd December 2011, 04:16

I put in a new set of NGK plug wires that I got from Amazon for $28! These replaced the store brand O'Reilly set from a few thousand miles ago. I'd always thought plug wires didn't make any difference, but those "cheap" wires I had in were showing deterioration, weren't sitting solidly on the coils, looked completely wimpy next to the NGK's, and I swear performance is improved. I took a little top-down drive to check it out - December 21 in Southwest Ohio! BTW, the "cheap" ones were ten bucks more than the NGK's.

RC 94

22nd December 2011, 19:09

Installed a black grille on my car. Was such a pain to remove those 3 14mm bolts. *sigh*

bigdave

22nd December 2011, 19:18

Installed a black grille on my car. Was such a pain to remove those 3 14mm bolts. *sigh*

if you don't post a photo... it didn't happen :)

Fiata '99

22nd December 2011, 19:21

Out of 3 week hibernation, took a little drive and put it back in garage till next time. Just beat the rain too. Merry Christmas all.

Silvia

22nd December 2011, 19:23

Just organised a group buy of seven black grilles (Moss Motors) to Australia and now in the mail. I'd also like a clear description or pics of removing the "babyteeth" hooks at the front please...:confused:

Letit*now

22nd December 2011, 20:24

Installed the Road Star offset plate bracket! It looks a hell of a lot better.

Gun Bunny

22nd December 2011, 20:44

Top down trip for last minute Christmas shopping, then a much needed bath and wax for my sled, then another top down cruise with the wife :D

jimave

22nd December 2011, 21:19

Cooler weather has hit and the old battery has bitten it again. New Voltex miata battery and cranking real good again!!!

sloopercat

22nd December 2011, 21:43

Drove both of them to get some use on them. The lack of winter weather may make winterization not needed. Drove the "new" MSM and my '99. Both are fantastic cars to drive.

RC 94

22nd December 2011, 23:32

if you don't post a photo... it didn't happen :)

I'll get it tomorrow. :D

96Formula6spd

23rd December 2011, 02:04

Did not do anything but went out after a few days of rain to find the drivers seat soaking wet.....guess my top is worse than I thought. To bad I have no cash for a new one let alone used one. :(

inheritthefire

23rd December 2011, 02:55

Got my '99 back from the mechanic. New clutch, throw out bearing, pressure plate, slave cylinder, and had the flywheel turned. Drives like a champ now!

Downside, everything lined up slightly differently... The transmission sits just ever so slightly more towards the passenger side than it used to. Not a big deal, just will take some getting used to.

Also, the mechanics put my shift lever in backwards, and the turret was low on gear oil. Filled it up, switched the lever around, and I'm good to go! I love the feel of a new clutch...

em1zack

23rd December 2011, 03:18

Left it parked and drove the old GMC to work in the storms. :( But the previous two days were great -- took the long way home on back mountain roads -- lots of nice twisties -- lots of smiles -- loads of fun. :D

___________
01 LS Emerald

texasmr2

23rd December 2011, 09:48

Left it parked and drove the old GMC to work in the storms. :( But the previous two days were great --took the long way home on back mountain roads -- lots of nice twisties -- lots of smiles -- loads of fun. :D

Your a SuperTramp ;).

EG Miller

23rd December 2011, 12:28

13.5" of snow yesterday in Denver. A few 2'+ snow drifts led me to drive the wife's van to work & hated it. Roads now packed down & I drove the Miata today. Much better! With Blizzaks all around and a hard top it is hard to beat in snow and icy roads. I grew up learning to drive rear wheel drives and driving on gravel country roads. RWD cars get a bad rap mostly caused by drivers not knowing how to drive them right. Colorado is perfect Miata territory. Lots of twisties in the mountains, lots of sunshine and occasional white fluffy stuff to have fun in in the winter. I am not a skier so travel to the mountains in the winter just doesn't happen. Amateurs on the road in SUVs scare the crap out of me. Y'all have a very Merry Christmas!

Shazbat

23rd December 2011, 16:46

Had a 4 wheel alignment using Flyin' Miata's numbers then had the new tires RoadForce balanced. Rock steady at all speeds up to 90!!! You could balance a thimble full of water on the steering wheel and not lose a drop. This morning I pulled the speed sensor and re-soldered the wires. Now its time to go for a long ride and enjoy!!!

JohnnyDanger

23rd December 2011, 17:30

Cleaned and sealed my headlights -

Wow - what a difference!!!

JonK67

23rd December 2011, 18:32

Which product did you use? I didn't know there was a 'sealer'. Amazingly well kept paint job, I'm envious at those clouds.
Jon

chiefmg

23rd December 2011, 20:02

Took my first night drive since installing my HIDs. Output is so much better than the stockers it is hard to believe. I'm glad I did this despite my trepidation at cracking open the headlights. Didn't get flashed so they are adjusted close to where they should be.

JohnnyDanger

23rd December 2011, 21:24

Which product did you use? I didn't know there was a 'sealer'. Amazingly well kept paint job, I'm envious at those clouds.
Jon

Sealing is just as important as polishing, otherwise the yellowing will come back.

There are plenty of expensive systems out there, but mine only cost about 11 bucks:

(1) Turtle Wax Headlight Lens restorer (has 4 abrasive pads, lubricant and clarifying compound)

(2) Blue Magic Headlight Lens sealer

I did buy a buffer for my drill which made the polishing with the clarifying compound go faster.

BoB_55

23rd December 2011, 23:01

Mine is just in storage since october 31..... I just waited for spring...:sad:

Letit*now

24th December 2011, 01:32

I replaced the antenna mast today! It surprises me that the gent who sold it to me didn't make this simple fix.

gregkl

24th December 2011, 07:45

I got my suspension bits and pieces from Rosenthal today, my chassis paint from Eastwood, picked up my suspension components from the sandblaster, and my sways bars arrived from FM.

Also bought my supplies to add a 220v and 120v outlet to my garage.

shoult

24th December 2011, 11:44

I got my suspension bits and pieces from Rosenthal today, my chassis paint from Eastwood, picked up my suspension components from the sandblaster, and my sways bars arrived from FM.

Also bought my supplies to add a 220v and 120v outlet to my garage.

Sigh..... My kingdom for a garage.

f86sabjf

24th December 2011, 12:00

put on my Magnecor wires and iridium plugs and took her for a spin.

gregkl

24th December 2011, 12:16

Sigh..... My kingdom for a garage.

Lol! Hey, have a Merry Christmas and if you get back to that pub you and I met at, have a beer for me!

tommyo

24th December 2011, 13:39

Installed a red hardtop on my silver car. My wife calls it my "clown car"!

jbyron

24th December 2011, 16:07

I think I can finally consider my mom's miata "done" kenwood double din with clearwater bose speakers, pioneer 500w rms amp with pioneer 500w rms shallow mount

that's the ebay box. I added a spacer and rewrapped/stitched it to match the interior.

hope you guys like!

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1702/wp000077w.jpg

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/7518/wp000080.jpg

Di3S3L_Power

24th December 2011, 17:04

^more pics with those wheels, please :)

shoult

24th December 2011, 18:06

Well even though I don't have a real garage the work has to move on.

Spent a few almost warm hours with the 2000 and it's new engine today. First I removed the BP4W head from the 2000's engine. Then I started removing stuff from the 03 engine that I'm not going to use and that I can get to with just the front and rear of the shipping wrap cut away. That wrap is all that's holding the engine upright. I've decided that I can build the 00/03 hybrid engine in the back of my van (I'm going to call it my garage). I'm going to have to build some engine mount to shipping pallet interfaces but that shouldn't be to hard. Once that's ready I can cut away all the plastic wrap and start swapping the heads.

I have to commend the shipping dept where I got the engine. ALMOST everything came through unscathed. The only casualty was the temp sensor on the back of the head. I was planning to use all the sensors and accessories from the 00 engine anyways. The dipstick made it though! Too bad it doesn't fit my 92 1.6L. Well at least I have a spare for when I snap the new one I just bought.

Today's work. (http://s155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/2011-12-24%20-%20Disassembling%20the%20engines/?albumview=slideshow)

BTW.... Is there a block drain point? As you can see in the first photo the block is STILL full of coolant. I haven't found a block drain yet.

Sigh. My kingdom for a REAL garage.

chemwarrior

24th December 2011, 19:05

Received my pre-2007 Momo Start and have been tweaking the stock sliders so that it will fit in the car. Looking forward to getting another one for the passenger side.

pbsdaddy

24th December 2011, 19:10

jbyron, that is one sweet car. "Mom is a lucky lady!

chemwarrior

24th December 2011, 21:47

Here's some pictures of my newly installed Momo Start seat.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e360/evoluvr/PB080135.jpg
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e360/evoluvr/PB080134.jpg
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e360/evoluvr/PB080133.jpg
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e360/evoluvr/PB080132.jpg

em99sport

25th December 2011, 12:55

The seat looks good in there.

chemwarrior

25th December 2011, 13:13

The seat looks good in there.

I wonder where I got it from. :D Thanks brother. :thumbs:

f86sabjf

25th December 2011, 17:32

I just wish i could fit in it!!!!

chemwarrior

25th December 2011, 18:33

I attempted to install a new grille but got stuck on that last bolt on the driver's side. Man what a pain in the ass.

RC 94

25th December 2011, 19:46

I attempted to install a new grille but got stuck on that last bolt on the driver's side. Man what a pain in the ass.

Yep. Had to use the two wrench trick (is it a trick?) and some serious pulling. Those bolts took longer than actually putting the grille in.

JonK67

25th December 2011, 20:36

That does look like it fits well, is the seat base ht. any higher/lower?
You're garage is too neat, you are embarassing mine...
Jon

chemwarrior

25th December 2011, 20:48

Yep. Had to use the two wrench trick (is it a trick?) and some serious pulling. Those bolts took longer than actually putting the grille in.

I'll try that tomorrow. I got frustrated and decided to work on it later. I may have rounded it off, but I have other means of working on it.

That does look like it fits well, is the seat base ht. any higher/lower?
You're garage is too neat, you are embarassing mine...
Jon

It sits about 1-2 inches lower, which I am glad for because the stock height was at an annoying level.

I am a little fastidious about my garage. :D

smckinley

26th December 2011, 03:21

Top down on Christmas Day! Drove it to the Party Source to pick up wine today and top down to the Bengals' game yesterday: two good days in a row.

Silvia

26th December 2011, 03:30

Over 90 Deg. in Brisbane today!:wave:
Had to put the top up to prevent arms frying !:realmad:

Rob01

26th December 2011, 06:52

Enjoyed the reduced traction of UHP summer tires on a cold day :thumbs:

-Rob.

sbauer

26th December 2011, 08:47

I took my Mother-in-law for her first ride in a convertible. Top down and short sleeves on Christmas Day. She was thrilled.

nwick

26th December 2011, 18:46

[QUOTE=Silvia;5518930]Over 90 Deg. in Brisbane today!:wave:
Had to put the top up to prevent arms frying !:realmad

What's it like in July?

gregkl

26th December 2011, 18:51

I sprayed Internal Frame Coating inside my control arms.

nwick

26th December 2011, 18:57

I think I can finally consider my mom's miata "done" kenwood double din with clearwater bose speakers, pioneer 500w rms amp with pioneer 500w rms shallow mount

that's the ebay box. I added a spacer and rewrapped/stitched it to match the interior.

hope you guys like!

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1702/wp000077w.jpg

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/7518/wp000080.jpg

Beautiful. Sure would like better picture and more info about those wheels.

red454

26th December 2011, 20:25

Got the old top off and a good start on the new one.

shoult

26th December 2011, 22:15

Over 90 Deg. in Brisbane today!:wave:
Had to put the top up to prevent arms frying !:realmad

What's it like in July?

You do see the OP is from Australia? It's "winter" in July there.

acedeuce802

26th December 2011, 22:20

Swapped in my NA seats! I couldn't stand the NB1 leather seats.

gregkl

27th December 2011, 08:18

Swapped in my NA seats! I couldn't stand the NB1 leather seats.

Are the NA seats really that much better? And if so, in what ways? How tall are you and what do you weigh?

I am looking to possibly replace my '99 seats with '01 or newer to have the extra height to put something between my head and roll bar, but I keep hearing about how great the NA seats are.:confused:

Jasons72

27th December 2011, 09:59

Well it wasn't today, it was two days ago but didn't load up pictures, put my new wheels/tires on and got sick of looking at the terrible pinstripe the previous owner had painted on so i sanded it off and painted the whole car satin black to hold me off till spring when im going to go with something like titanium gray. I wanted to go nato green but couldn't find it anywhere, i'm going to order some online i think and redo it once i get back from ait, and yes the back needs to come down bad.

http://i399.photobucket.com/albums/pp72/snakeman71289/2011-12-25_15-53-56_719.jpg

http://i399.photobucket.com/albums/pp72/snakeman71289/2011-12-25_15-54-10_953.jpg

acedeuce802

27th December 2011, 10:40

Are the NA seats really that much better? And if so, in what ways? How tall are you and what do you weigh?

I am looking to possibly replace my '99 seats with '01 or newer to have the extra height to put something between my head and roll bar, but I keep hearing about how great the NA seats are.:confused:

I didn't like the NB leather seats, mainly because they sat higher. I'm 5'10" 150, but I don't have the typical seating position of my size. I sit very close to the steering wheel (compared to what other people my size do) so I'm not sure if that plays a part. With the NB seats, I couldn't see past 70 mph on the speedometer, because of the steering wheel in the way. Since I was so high, I'd lean it back, and I'd end up sliding down the leather. My NA seats are cloth, which I prefer over leather. They also sit lower, and feel more comfortable overall. The seats just nestle me in better than the NB seats. I was lucky that I have a crashed NA, I had the choice of which seats I liked better!

gregkl

27th December 2011, 10:56

I see. Thanks. I did the foamectomy on my cloth '99's. It helped me sit lower and holds me in better. I would still like to get lower but I don't want to do racing seats or try to bolt mine to the floor.

chemwarrior

27th December 2011, 11:36

I say go for some racing seats. I love my Momo Start.

bigdave

27th December 2011, 20:07

took a tour of the begi garage and had them install their throttlebody inlet tube.

Enthuz

27th December 2011, 21:15

Bought her a friend. Black & black & black & black rust free stock NA with original black hardtop with defroster. Pics in a few days.

jasmiata

27th December 2011, 21:19

Replaced the failed thermostat (great design to fail open rather than closed - persistently cold engine is better than a persistently overheating one). I did not enjoy scraping the old gasket...fighting with bullet-proof material stuck onto soft aluminum while bent over for an extended period of time is not my first choice of activity. All worked well - new thermostat is in place with no leaks and I took the chance to flush and fill the system with fresh antifreeze while I was in there.

shoult

28th December 2011, 18:54

Ahhh.... Mild and sunny weather here in Nashville so I took off from work a couple hours early to work on the 03 engine some more.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/2011-12-24%20-%20Disassembling%20the%20engines/IMG_1289.jpg

Got lots more stuff off of the 03 in preparation of putting on the 00 BP4W head. I left the 03 head on until I have cash to place another parts order.

acedeuce802

28th December 2011, 19:03

Changed the transmission and diff fluid to Redline.

gregkl

28th December 2011, 19:48

Finished painting my suspension components, put new boots on my tie rod ends, painted some other odds and ends that fit under the car.

Installed a 240V welder outlet so I can have a friend bring his welder over to do some welding in a few weeks.

boomercarguy

28th December 2011, 22:14

Sealing is just as important as polishing, otherwise the yellowing will come back.

There are plenty of expensive systems out there, but mine only cost about 11 bucks:

(1) Turtle Wax Headlight Lens restorer (has 4 abrasive pads, lubricant and clarifying compound)

(2) Blue Magic Headlight Lens sealer

I did buy a buffer for my drill which made the polishing with the clarifying compound go faster.

I used the 3M Headlight kit for about $20 and found the electric drill (much faster rpm's) did much better but I only used half of the trigger on the variable speed drill. I am very pleased at the results. There is even a tutorial video on the 3M website. I followed this up with some Blue Magic Headlight sealer which I bought on sale for about $4 and couldn't believe the difference! It sprayed on like Windex spray and took about one minute per headlight. I should have enough for about 100 applications -- the stuff is fantastic.

Triple88A

29th December 2011, 00:56

Ahhh.... Mild and sunny weather here in Nashville so I took off from work a couple hours early to work on the 03 engine some more.
.....
Got lots more stuff off of the 03 in preparation of putting on the 00 BP4W head. I left the 03 head on until I have cash to place another parts order.

you might want to flip over the coolant necks while you have the engine out.

Silvia

29th December 2011, 03:35

[QUOTE=Silvia;5518930]Over 90 Deg. in Brisbane today!:wave:
Had to put the top up to prevent arms frying !:realmad

What's it like in July?
July is real top down weather here...like clear,fine and 20Deg C. day after day :thumbs:

bludblu

29th December 2011, 09:51

The dreaded check engine light "EGR". Double checked with the code reader and jumped right in. Removed the throttle body, upper intake and egr valve. Carbon galore was the theme of the day. Cleaned with throttle body cleaner and lots of elbow grease. What a nasty job. Put here back together, cleared the check engine light and for some reason I think it runs better. [2000LS with 93k miles]. I would have never attempted this on my last few cars.

chemwarrior

29th December 2011, 12:29

I bought some rubber floor mats, visor blank plates and airbag cubby. Looking forward to throwing those on this weekend.

inheritthefire

29th December 2011, 15:41

Drove to Wal-mart with the top down. Ridiculous weather for this time of year in Iowa... But I'm loving it! I've had the top down since Christmas.

Also rolled over 77,000 miles just as I pulled into the garage...

gregkl

29th December 2011, 16:41

Put some bushings in my newly painted control arms, new boots on ball joints and tie rod ends. Painted my shocks, radiator support bracket, some other items.

wrusprod

29th December 2011, 19:02

Ahhh.... Mild and sunny weather here in Nashville so I took off from work a couple hours early to work on the 03 engine some more.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/2011-12-24%20-%20Disassembling%20the%20engines/IMG_1289.jpg

Got lots more stuff off of the 03 in preparation of putting on the 00 BP4W head. I left the 03 head on until I have cash to place another parts order.

whoa!!Lets see this again!..:jump:

shoult

29th December 2011, 19:44

Still beautiful, mild, sunny weather in Nashville so I took another couple hours off from work to work on the 03 engine. Other than the 03 head which I'm not taking off yet, everything else is off that's coming off. I also put the first of the new parts on today. Put the new water pump, idler and tensioner on.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s309/shoult/Vehicles/2000%20Mazda%20Miata/2011-12-24%20-%20Disassembling%20the%20engines/IMG_1315.jpg

The next job is to clean the engine and all the bits. Going to have to get some heavy duty plastic to put under the engine.

Seashed

29th December 2011, 22:24

shoult,

Pictures kind of hard to see. Can you make them any larger? ;)
Love your mobile repair shop. Bummer actually that you don't have a garage.
Other than you being a couple of thousand miles away, I'd volunteer mine!
You are doing real good work, under not so optimal conditions. Keep at it, we
know you shall prevail.

Bayside

29th December 2011, 23:01

Took my 02 for a new Magnaflow muffler with dual exhaust and oval tips, looks great and sounds really nice over the stock muffler. Also just added the K&N air intake.
Darrell

Bayside

29th December 2011, 23:10

Put on the Magnaflow muffler with dual exhaust and oval tips, sounds and looks great.
Darrell

superbee24

30th December 2011, 00:32

Designed, cut and applied REFLECTIVE stripes on my Razor Blue Miata.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l152/superbee24/1325218366.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l152/superbee24/1325218371.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l152/superbee24/1325218369.jpg

UncleJ

30th December 2011, 16:21

Last week, tune up. This morning, alignment.
Today, step hard on gas pedal.

96Formula6spd

30th December 2011, 18:02

Still trying to find the many recent burning smells. Up to 2 different ones. One is from the front right by the clutch master. The other is by the right rear wheel. Then never ending burning smells from this car make me want to get rid of it. I bought this car to have reliability. Now its suck on in town duty only.

Shazbat

30th December 2011, 19:23

Warm, sunny day, nice for a top-down drive. Having a great time until I noticed the blue flashing lights in the review mirror. Oh well, it was a fair catch. Although not rally driving too fast, it was over the limit. Nolo contendere... need to remember the limits are there for a reason. Spoiled a damn fine day though......

good2go

30th December 2011, 20:04

Bravo! I applaud the recognition of such, and I'd ask nothing more for myself when I drive. I gripes me to no end when I see these modern day jokers (primarily out for money no doubt) hiding off on the side and pointing there little laser guns or using the moving radar while driving toward me from the opposite direction. Pop around a turn, and bingo . . . you just bought a bought yourself a donation toward this miserable economy. :confused:

chemwarrior

30th December 2011, 20:43

That's what a radar detector is for. I installed my all weather floor mats and replaced the sun visors with blanking plates.

pfk1106

31st December 2011, 09:18

:DFinished to lazy cupholder door repairs and the installation of the Big Red Button. Pushing that button brings a smile to my face everytime. Reminds me on my '58 Healey 100-6.

MPA

31st December 2011, 19:45

New NGK plug wires

cruisin'n5thgear

31st December 2011, 19:59

New NGK plug wires

Nice addition. Always good to replace every couple years.

gregkl

31st December 2011, 20:13

Put my exhaust manifold back on after my motor mount change from the other day. Put my rear suspension back on...loosely...will torque everything all at once with vehicle on the ground. Cleaned and waxed the wheels, backside and front side.

Thumper 13

31st December 2011, 21:19

Another unbelievable Chamber of Commerce, Board of Tourism day here on the east coast of Central Florida. An off duty L.E.O. and I drove my Miata to an undisclosed super twisty area ( around an airport :D ) and played " GO FAST "

mike263

1st January 2012, 10:34

Sebring?

gregkl

1st January 2012, 11:51

Fixed my sagging glovebox.

dfitz

1st January 2012, 13:17

Welcomed the New Year in with a forlorn look at the 2003 sitting, covered in the garage. Then I looked at the slush on the road outside and realized I was doing a good thing for the Miata!

Thumper 13

1st January 2012, 13:21

Sebring?

I wish :(

coudamau

1st January 2012, 15:38

I'm looking for a good quality dual exhaust system for my newly acquired 1999 Miata. There seem to be a lot of them out there but I'm at a loss for picking a good one. Could even be a used one if available. Any help would be appreciated.

X-Ray Rich

1st January 2012, 15:56

put on my Magnecor wires and iridium plugs and took her for a spin.

I hope you get more than the 10k miles I got from my $80.00 Magnecor Wires.

Dragonfighter

1st January 2012, 16:14

Pretty much the same weather here in western NC today, although probably not as warm as C Fla. Took my hardtop off, kept an eye out for ON DUTY LEO's, and drove around on some of the local moderately twisty areas at somewhat greater than posted limits.

It's so nice to hear the exhaust without anything between you and it.

CheapWhine

1st January 2012, 16:44

Drove it (top down) on Friday. Stopped at a thift store in Virginia Beach.. and picked this up. Definitely not a licensed Mazda product.. but for $0.99.. who cares?

Dragonfighter

1st January 2012, 18:11

I think Racing Beat makes a nice dual outlet muffler. They don't add any more power than a single outlet, though, the twin tips are more for a balanced look, plus you have to trim the rear valence for the second tip to fit.

It's a 4-cylinder engine, after all, no real need for a dual exhaust. If you're after a lower note and a bit better response, and maybe a couple extra ponies, go for a larger diameter midpipe along with the new muffler.

Where in NC are you? I'm in the Hickory/Newton area.

Silvia

1st January 2012, 18:21

I needed a bit of exhaust sound to drive by....simply dropped in to local exhaust shop, put it up on hoist and tried a few correct size (2 1/4") ones.
Second one was the one! Straight through but with slight bend internally about a foot long steel , up and hidden with original tip showing. Excellent subtle deepish sound, no drone. $200!:rolleyes:

gregkl

1st January 2012, 18:43

I've always liked the look of dual exhausts, but when it came to getting a muffler for my Miata, I just didn't care for the design of the tailpipes on the dual systems so I went with the RS3 single outlet. I am glad I made this choice. The sound is perfect and I like the way it looks...even though my bumper was already cut by the PO for duals.:)

Jax-MX5

1st January 2012, 19:19

Washed the outside, cleaned the inside.

f86sabjf

1st January 2012, 19:36

I hope you get more than the 10k miles I got from my $80.00 Magnecor Wires.

so do I :thumbs: I've only got 2 to go bad though instead of 4

BlueNueB

2nd January 2012, 15:33

Installed a MiataRoadster short shifter. Very sweet.

syswizard

2nd January 2012, 22:40

Drove it (top down) on Friday. Stopped at a thift store in Virginia Beach.. and picked this up. Definitely not a licensed Mazda product.. but for $0.99.. who cares?

You stinker ! I paid $20 for mine in black.

96Formula6spd

3rd January 2012, 01:47

Got a free am/fm/cd/tape deck. I guess I will swap it out for my am/fm/cd one. Now to add the old school tape connector for the mp3.

PeTeToTe

3rd January 2012, 03:33

Wash, Clay, Polish and waxed :D

inheritthefire

3rd January 2012, 04:33

Had some fun playing around with a friend in his 2004 Audi A4. Just driving from his place to mine, but we couldn't resist the stoplight shenanigans and taking the curves like they were begging us to.

nate0123

3rd January 2012, 10:11

Well I bought my '99 about a week ago and yesterday I performed the Bose woofer "repair" - I thought they were blown until I found this thread: http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=366953

Easy $5 fix!

CheapWhine

3rd January 2012, 13:06

You stinker ! I paid $20 for mine in black.I'm way too cheap to pay $20 :D. I frequent this particular thift shop quite often (very clean and organized). I'm always lookin' for car stuff and work clothes. I've picked up a Jaguar mug, an Ep3 hatch t-shirt, a Grassroots Motorsports t-shirt, and a stack of Practical Classics magazines. I missed out on a diecast model of Ferrari 250 GTO, a few months ago. I was waiting for them to mark it down one more time.. someone else snagged it :sad:.

X-Ray Rich

3rd January 2012, 16:23

I'm way too cheap... I missed out on a diecast model of Ferrari 250 GTO, a few months ago. I was waiting for them to mark it down one more time.. someone else snagged it :sad:.

I guess your Screen Name says it all...

Merlyn2220

3rd January 2012, 16:29

On Christmas morning I installed brand new TR Motorsports C1Ms in light grey with 195/50/15 S.Drives. It took nearly 2 hours because the PO (POS?) decided to "bling" his rotors and calipers with thick yellow paint. Yellow on a red Miata? Come on...ugh. So since he'd painted the rotor hats as well, I had to spend 20-30 mins per rotor scraping the caked-on thick paint back off and sanding flat so the new rims would seat. What a marooon!

Yesterday I reinstalled the clockspring that the PO/POS had taken off when he installed the Momo steering wheel and adaptor. Of course he'd also cut the wires on both sides, but fortunately I at least still had the clockspring and 4 pin connectors buried in his box of old junk I go when I bought the car. So it only took ~2 hours to rewire and solder the connections together and now the car goes MEEP MEEP again! Any suggestions for a good sounding aftermarket horn?

CheapWhine

3rd January 2012, 16:58

I guess your Screen Name says it all...

What a CHEAP shot. Quoting someone.. then editing the quote to your advantage. Pretty lame.. no imagination.:rolleyes:

X-Ray Rich

3rd January 2012, 18:26

What a CHEAP shot. Quoting someone.. then editing the quote to your advantage. Pretty lame.. no imagination.:rolleyes:

Oops... Wasn't trying to belittle or offend.
Who doesn't want a DEAL !!!

I was just commenting on the coincidental wording in the comment you made and your Screen Name.
A "Yep, That's Me! I mean what I say."
Kind of Merit Badge to you
So my Hat is of to you, sir.

I'd leave you with a funny face but that stuff doesn't work on this thing

Rich

Silvia

3rd January 2012, 18:49

Discovered what the "appendix " on my air intake pipe is!
Apologies to those who don't have one - maybe uncommon in U.S. cars?

Just in case, if like me, you were wondering about the little black U-shaped appendix on the air intake pipe - well, courtesy of Miata net , here's your answer!! :wink:
It's a Helmholz Chamber :!:
Helmholtz Resonance occurs when this oscillation becomes synchronized with the pressure waves emitted by the sound source, causing the sound waves to sharply increase in volume.

It also helps to define the intake/exhaust note you hear. If you've ever blown across the top of a soda bottle and gotten a sound you were using Helmholtz Resonance to create that sound.

Ludwig Ferdinand von Helmholtz, a german physicist in the 1800's. The resonance chamber is named after him because of his work in flow energy conservation techniques that are used to analyze it. In the simplest model, the air in the neck of the chamber is taken as a mass with no compressibility and the the air in the chamber is assumed to be a "spring" with no inertia.

Now to cut the end off it (fixable with a bung) to see how it sounds.....with apologies to Ludwig Ferdinand von Helmholz :roll:

_________________
Folly bizarre......a silver 2002 NB8C Series3 at 66!

Report this post

gerrygug

3rd January 2012, 19:07

Replaced the bulbs in my fog lights
http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/gerrygug/99Miata10AE371.jpg

X-Ray Rich

3rd January 2012, 19:53

Replaced the bulbs in my fog lights
http://i713.photobucket.com/albums/ww134/gerrygug/99Miata10AE371.jpg

How'd you do thet?

After seeing prices of, even '99 Lights I balked) I just installed some $20 Walmart lights "optilex".
With Brackest adgustmentm they fit right is the space but they look like the're going have too much Glare.

I might dig Deep and get a seat of '03 Lights. They Look Nice.
But I really want Driving Lights wnere I can SEE down the road.I need to do more reseach on driving Lights.
I thing they're 3" and 55w.

BTW Nice Front lips Spoiler too...

Papawdude

3rd January 2012, 20:14

Went for a "spin" on some black ice :)

134833

gregkl

3rd January 2012, 20:23

I bought Freeway Blasters, both the hi and lo tone ones. The horns sound great! Nice and loud!

gregkl

3rd January 2012, 20:29

After work I went out back in out tech center and media blasted my charcoal canister bracket.

chiefmg

3rd January 2012, 20:34

Installed my Tuckin' 99 fender braces, with only a few hiccups. Cleaned the leaves etc out of the fenders while I was in there, wasn't a ton and there was no rust so probably only built up while in the care of the guy I bought it from (he didn't have a garage). No test drive as yet, I ran out of time and forgot to connect my HID ground wire so had to take my stepdaughter to work in a different car.

Gun Bunny

5th January 2012, 21:24

Ordered a set of MR adjustable coilovers, $750 shipped, hopefully be able to install week after next, followed by professional alignment.

amptramp

5th January 2012, 21:36

Took another look at the alternator. I had the charge light come on a few days ago when I was about 15 miles from home, so I pulled the handbrake up to the first notch where the brake warning light goes on in order to cut the daytime running lights and save about five or six amps. But it turns out it was the opposite problem - the battery voltage was 14.86 when idling and increased to 15.04 when the headlights, rear window defogger and heater fan were turned on. I checked by removing the plug that has the centre tap of the windings and the drive for the field coil switching transistor (in the alternator) to see if I had lost the voltage sensing (from the windings). Battery voltage was 11.64 with it unplugged and 15.04 with it plugged in, even with no extra loads on. I may have to pull the ECU and repair it or design and build a regulator based on the ECU internals. The other solution would be to rewire for an NA alternator.

Justin Petersen

6th January 2012, 13:15

After picking it up from the garage where it had a new heater core fitted I've spent a large majority of time drying the footwells out from where it had water when the other core leaked.

I'm now onto two new problems, the car dies everytime I start, so I turn the key and whole car loses power, I smack the battery in the pack and try again, same thing, then the third time it always starts, and now an annoying squeal has developed from the engine, seems to be an alternator or belt problem.

Once going though I took it for a good drive round the back lanes. :jump:

shoult

6th January 2012, 15:02

Hopefully ordered the last of the parts for my rebuild. Sigh. Closing in on 6 months now without my NB running forcing me to drive my NA.

Another new head gasket and a clutch kit, a few seals and then into the car goes the hybrid 03/00 10.5:1 CR engine. If it runs and makes it through the break-in period then off to the Dyno it goes for a baseline before I make a decision on ECUs and tuning.

Only 6 more months until MATG XVI. Got your reservations in yet?

amptramp

6th January 2012, 20:26

I pulled the ECU to check for continuity at the alternator control terminals. It had about 39K ohms to the diode bridge and 927 ohms to the base of the field control transistor. There is a resistor in series with the sense lead, but I don't know the value and this test also includes the resistance of the grounded diodes. All connector pins look good with no corrosion. Looks like I have an ECU problem. The ECU circuit board looks pristine - no visible solder cracks and perfectly applied conformal coat.

mia&tia

6th January 2012, 23:19

Dropped the car off at the body shop this morning.

Car is getting a new paint job due to being keyed. (same color; brilliant black)

drp967

7th January 2012, 01:26

Dropped the car off at the body shop this morning.

Car is getting a new paint job due to being keyed. (same color; brilliant black)

ouch, godspeed!

good2go

7th January 2012, 02:00

Dropped the car off at the body shop this morning.

Car is getting a new paint job due to being keyed. (same color; brilliant black)

:realmad:

I pray there's a extra SPECIAL place for the folks who do that stuff.

X-Ray Rich

7th January 2012, 04:38

Dropped the car off at the body shop this morning.

Car is getting a new paint job due to being keyed. (same color; brilliant black)

There are Jerks out there that just can't stand to see somebody have a Nice car.

mia&tia

7th January 2012, 12:11

:realmad:

I pray there's a extra SPECIAL place for the folks who do that stuff.

There are Jerks out there that just can't stand to see somebody have a Nice car.

Thanks for the support guys. As you can imagine I was furious when I came out to find my car keyed. They did everything, doors, hood, trunk, quarter panel, bumpers, etc. Car will be in the shop for 2-3 weeks...driving an automatic civic and its just not the same feeling. :( I want my car back asap. :)

Gun Bunny

7th January 2012, 12:19

Makes me want to channel Vincent Vega...

Oh, and I went and got my plates on wednesday, having bought it on 11/22 and not having received them from the dealer (after they failed to properly title the car with the lien required of it :realmad: ). This was after a call to them on 12/30 ("we sent them off, you haven't gotten them yet?") and four days before my temp tags were set to expire.

Lo and behold, I get the plates and registration from them the very. next. day. :ohno:

Gun Bunny

7th January 2012, 12:30

Sigh. Closing in on 6 months now without my NB running forcing me to drive my NA.

Oh, the horror :rolleyes:

gerrygug

7th January 2012, 13:06

How'd you do thet?

I might dig Deep and get a seat of '03 Lights. They Look Nice.
But I really want Driving Lights wnere I can SEE down the road.I need to do more reseach on driving Lights.
I thing they're 3" and 55w.

BTW Nice Front lips Spoiler too...

X-Ray,

The lights are factory. I just replaced the burnt out bulbs at $6 each.
If you want light don't go with the factory set up. From inside the car you can not even tell they are on. I just fixed them because they were out when I purchased the car and I like everything to work.

gregkl

7th January 2012, 20:06

A friend came over and TIG welded some stuff for me on the car, I put the rear brakes on, and primed the spots he welded. Oh and I primed the bracket that goes around the charcoal canister.

99TwilightBlueMica

8th January 2012, 12:40

Oil Change. Pennzoil Ultra. 5w-30 for the winter. new drain plug and washer installed to combat a slow drip.

gregkl

8th January 2012, 17:58

Mocked up a cardboard roll bar to see how it interferes with my head to figure out which roll bar I want, if any.

It's Mama's MX-5

8th January 2012, 20:35

Mama had me drive both of us in the 2000 SE to the car wash then to the supermarket. Parked it next to a BMW Z4. A somewhat clueless young guy says, "Wow, is that a Porsche?" No, I replied. This is much more fun than a Porsche OR a BMW.

Kylini

8th January 2012, 22:10

Readded my insurance, added a front tow hook (rear to come later), and installed a new shift boot from RedlineGoods. Shame they sent the wrong one, but a leather punch made it work.

I HAZ KAR

9th January 2012, 00:00

Gave it a good wash and wax yesterday (what is up with 60 degree days in January?), and I put together the wiring harness for my new head unit. Unfortunately the kids decided naps were optional this afternoon, so I wasn't able to install the head unit yet.

Soon, though. ( =

nate0123

9th January 2012, 00:07

- replaced the faulty cruise control module with a working one
- discovered the seat belt slots (to keep the passenger side belt from rattling when not occupied)
- discovered the "sport s" suspension designation on the passenger side door jamb

99TwilightBlueMica

9th January 2012, 17:11

Installed '04 MSM Black Leather Seats in my '99. Huge improvements in comfort, bolstering, and interior decor.

nate0123

9th January 2012, 17:28

Nice seats!

inheritthefire

9th January 2012, 17:55

What I did to my NB: wash and a quick wax / detail since it was in the fifties. Then the drive back to college... Now to hope the people parking around me respect cars enough to check their door clearance!

X-Ray Rich

9th January 2012, 18:06

Installed '04 MSM Black Leather Seats in my '99. Huge improvements in comfort, bolstering, and interior decor.

Sure looks like a Nice upgrade.

RC 94

9th January 2012, 22:21

Got rear ended on the way home from dinner. Not bad, but there's a 4 inch crack in the bumper. It'll need to be replaced. Kills the value of my car though :/

good2go

9th January 2012, 22:28

Got rear ended on the way home from dinner. Not bad, but there's a 4 inch crack in the bumper. It'll need to be replaced. Kills the value of my car though :/

Why's that? Bumpers are cheap. :dunno:

RC 94

9th January 2012, 22:53

Why's that? Bumpers are cheap. :dunno:

Shows up on a carfax that it was in a wreck. Drops the value at least a grand.

runnyeggsham

10th January 2012, 05:01

Readded my insurance, added a front tow hook (rear to come later), and installed a new shift boot from RedlineGoods. Shame they sent the wrong one, but a leather punch made it work.

I want to do that too. Hard to do? Where are you getting the hooks from? I've only seen them offered at UHauls. Might be good to get one so maybe I can stick on a bike rack there one of these days when I get a bike too.:)

slow88lx

10th January 2012, 05:47

Installed the freeway blasters and front Racing Beat sway bar. The sway bar really did a lot to keep the car flatter. So much better to drive and totally worth the money. The horn kicks ass too, get out of my way bitches!

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/2012-01-08_18-23-44_819.jpg?t=1326084083

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/2012-01-08_18-23-13_123.jpg?t=1326084057

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/2012-01-08_19-05-47_282.jpg?t=1326068394

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/2012-01-08_18-24-57_205.jpg?t=1326084023

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/2012-01-08_18-23-55_919.jpg?t=1326084107

Also put in some Iridium IX plugs.

JonK67

10th January 2012, 09:30

FIAMM 72102 and 72112 look to be the high/low set is that correct? I need to do this soon.

slow88lx

10th January 2012, 10:18

They weren't really a set.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000DINKPQ/ref=oh_o02_s00_i00_details
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FKKOK6/ref=oh_o02_s00_i01_details

nate0123

10th January 2012, 10:18

Shows up on a carfax that it was in a wreck. Drops the value at least a grand.
If it's really minor, take pictures of the damage so you can show it to prospective buyers when the time comes to sell. They'll feel more comfortable knowing it was just a bumper cover replacement, and not a more extreme reconstructive repair. I know I would.

Also, if the other party's insurance is picking up the tab, I would definitely see about getting compensated for depreciated value from the incident. Worst you can hear is "no" but worth a shot IMO.

I HAZ KAR

10th January 2012, 10:54

Shows up on a carfax that it was in a wreck. Drops the value at least a grand.

Also remember that Carfax isn't perfect. My old Ford Focus got hit pretty hard (about $2500 in damage) and it never showed up on the Carfax.

It went through the other guy's insurance, used their recommended shop and everything.

gregkl

10th January 2012, 10:59

They weren't really a set.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000DINKPQ/ref=oh_o02_s00_i00_details
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FKKOK6/ref=oh_o02_s00_i01_details

I bought the same two from Amazon. I then bought a new horn bracket and they look factory. Not that you can see them though.:)

But they sound great!

gregkl

10th January 2012, 11:02

If it's really minor, take pictures of the damage so you can show it to prospective buyers when the time comes to sell. They'll feel more comfortable knowing it was just a bumper cover replacement, and not a more extreme reconstructive repair. I know I would.

Also, if the other party's insurance is picking up the tab, I would definitely see about getting compensated for depreciated value from the incident. Worst you can hear is "no" but worth a shot IMO.

I took pictures of the damage on my wife's Honda so a buyer will be able to see it. I think this is the best thing one can do when involved in an accident. Buyers will always wonder how extensive the damage was and pictures will help out tremendously.

I tried the compensation for loss of value. It didn't work.

slow88lx

10th January 2012, 22:10

Swapped out my transmission fluid with some nice Ford Motorsports Full Synthetic MTF.
I can't endorse this enough, my 150k+ mile transmission feels new. Shifts a lot better. I wish I had known the shifter boots are such giant turds. I need to replace both of them. I also need to buy a 23 or 24 MM socket to change the diff fluid.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/fullsynth.jpg?t=1326246095

Installed a new aluminum shifter bushing.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/bushing.jpg?t=1326246813

While I was in there I got a new style console to replace the broken lid on the the one I had. Much improved design on the cup holders and console lid.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/newconsole.jpg?t=1326246447

Gun Bunny

10th January 2012, 22:24

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/fullsynth.jpg?t=1326246095

Installed a new aluminum shifter bushing.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/bushing.jpg?t=1326246813

While I was in there I got a new style console to replace the broken lid on the the one I had. Much improved design on the cup holders and console lid.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s276/slow88lx/newconsole.jpg?t=1326246447

Where did you get that console?

chiefmg

10th January 2012, 22:29

Swapped out my window switch, ashtray and jack for some bits I bought from The Parts Group. The new window switch color is a much better match for the console, which makes me think the original one was replaced in the past with one that was tan. I really like having the correct color.

Silvia

10th January 2012, 22:42

I've bought some sticky-back black foam and cut it to fit on those two console lids perfectly. My elbow was getting a rash from rubbing on the console and now it rests in cushioned comfort ;)

I must say, in this country I'm so glad the handbrake lever is on the passenger side....do you really have to work around it to change gears?

inheritthefire

11th January 2012, 00:08

I must say, in this country I'm so glad the handbrake lever is on the passenger side....do you really have to work around it to change gears?

Nope. I use it as a hand rest, usually.

slow88lx

11th January 2012, 00:17

Where did you get that console?Someone here on the forum was parting out an NA and he had this console in it, it was originally out of a 2005 NB.
I've bought some sticky-back black foam and cut it to fit on those two console lids perfectly. My elbow was getting a rash from rubbing on the console and now it rests in cushioned comfort ;)

I must say, in this country I'm so glad the handbrake lever is on the passenger side....do you really have to work around it to change gears?

Nope. I use it as a hand rest, usually.I don't find it to be a problem, although I have considered bending it toward the shifter because it's not comfortable to rest my leg against sometimes.

What did you do to your NB today? [Archive] - Page 29 (2024)