[NB] My constantly changing, (hopefully final), NB1 build! [Archive] (2025)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 20:45

I've been working on my car since the day I bought it in April 2017. I'll post everything I've done to it since that month, starting tonight! I'll include the dates that I added "said" part as well.

I've introduced myself many many posts ago, if you want to know about me, but this is about my car passion and my first Miata :)

A little more about me. I've always had a love for Miata's. In the early/mid 90's, I used to transport a variety of cars, one to two, daily, from Alabama to Nashville, TN, where my cousin had a dealership. There were 3 of us that delivered cars, myself, my Grandfather and another one of my cousins. I was maybe 18 years old then and everytime we had any sports car to deliver, they would stick me in them. I remember the first day I drove for them, I was in a '93 40th Anniversary Corvette! 18 years old and driving a new Vette for several hours! I was in heaven! I had always like classic cars and loved tinkering with old junk when I was 16 or 17, but this job is what started my true passion for cars!

Eventually one day, he had us pick up a 90/93, and many more throughout the years, the last one I drove was an M edition, automatic and it was outrageous! It was winter and I dropped the top and threw the heater on full blast! I fell it love with the Miata! Although, at the time, I was in college and the job didn't pay enough for me to buy a new Miata, let alone some of the other amazing cars I drove everyday...

As the years went by, I've owned 40+ vehicles since I was 17 years old, but I kind of forgot about the Miata. Throughout my 20's, I had a business and bought many classic cars, '67 Camaro, '69 Camaro, '55 F100, '55 Chevy Truck, '66 GTO, '69 Chevelle, along with some modern cars. I'd buy one, restore it and sell it, then repeat. I think at one time, I had 7 vehicles total, new and old.

I got married in '05 and started a new career. I now made less money, but had amazing benefits! I thought my "toy" buying was done for, but throughout the years, my wife and I always had at least 3 vehicles. My daily driver, her daily driver and then something I could tinker on and enjoy on the weekends.

Around March of '17, one of my very good friends, who is now in his 50's told me about putting an LSx into a Miata. I was blown away and started researching this and sure enough, he was correct. I had totally forgotten about Miata's, until then.... I remember when the NB's came out and I absolutely loved that body style and it's still my favorite one of all four generations! So, I started searching ebay, Craigslist and FB Marketplace for an NB, although, I didn't know what an NB was at that time, LOL! After many searches, I was disappointed with the mileage/asking prices. So I started looking for earlier years (NA's) and they were equally disappointing.... I just happened to look on Craigslist one morning to see an all original 2000 LS for sale under $3500 about 50 miles away from me! I called him and went over there after work. I test drove it and fell in love with the NB! I loved it more than the NA's I drove when I was a much younger man! The only problem is, I'm 6'5" and at the time I test drove the car, I was about 260lbs. When I drove for my cousin, I was 6'2" and 210lbs. Needless to say, I couldn't fit worth a crap in the NB, but I bought it anyway! Left him a deposit and picked it up a couple days later!

Before I even looked at the car, I joined the local Miata club in town. Mostly older folks, but very spirited drivers! My intentions were to buy the car on a Friday and go on a 200+ ride with them Saturday.

I had full intentions of dropping a V8 in this thing at first, but as I was driving home down the interstate, I loved it the way it was! 4 miles before I got home, the slave cylinder went out on me and I had to pay $75 to be towed home. I went to my local parts store and bought both a master and slave cylinder and replaced them that night. The next morning, I picked up my good friend and we went riding with the club.

This is what she looked like the day I bought her, April 14, 2017.

Here's what it looked like the day I bought it.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/17992298_10209085667007063_2117597341006845118_n.j pg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/17992298_10209085667007063_2117597341006845118_n.j pg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 20:50

After the Saturday ride after purchase, my friend and I noticed the front right wheel would shake over 55mph! The body roll was beyond ridiculous! And in the extremely curvy TN mountain roads, we noticed the brakes weren't exactly great, they were pretty awful actually.

We discovered lots of problems with it, from the club ride and the next day, I did every tall guy mod to it, with exception of a smaller steering wheel and started ordering new parts to replace the old worn out one.

In this pic, my Silver NB is the 5th one from the Burgundy ND, between the Silver NC and other Silver NB.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/17951657_10209557845526394_7808914210934327284_n.j pg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/17951657_10209557845526394_7808914210934327284_n.j pg.html)

Fast forward to 2018 - I discovered after a few club meetings, that none of these people knew anything about cars, other than driving... Most said they didn't even know how to change their own oil...

This pic is from the May 2017 club ride:
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170520_110306118.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170520_110306118.jpg.html)

Rewind back to May 2017 - Myself being the car guy that I am, no longer asked them for help and learned everything about my Miata on my own.

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 20:52

The June club ride was pathetic. It was like a Sunday drive after church. But, at this time, I'd added new NB2 16" wheels, wrapped in some generic Firestone 205/45 rubber. No more wheel shaking, but this wheel/tire combo was heavy. I also sprayed the whole tail light Nite Shades Red. I also added a Cool-Tek Remote Oil Filter kit.

In the pic below, my car is at the rear, beside the ND
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/19237798_10209587879842070_2205335291348678238_o.j pg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/19237798_10209587879842070_2205335291348678238_o.j pg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 20:57

In July, I didn't go on a club ride, as it's pretty damn hot in Alabama in July and August! This month, I focused on fixing more faulty parts!

I painted the factory Tan top, to Black. I painted the small Tupperware, the spoiler and the windshield surround Gloss Black. Installed a shorty angled antenna. I was loving the Silver/Black look!

I ordered Power Stop's Z23 Evolution Drilled/Slotted Rotors with Ceramic pads, KYB Excel-G shocks, Fat Cat Motorports 36/46mm Bump-stops and installed a knock-off Racing Beat SS Muffler. I installed a Racing Beat 1.125" Front Sway Bar with Reinforcement Blocks

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170722_191029817.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170722_191029817.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170728_182416796.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170728_182416796.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170810_183837426.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170810_183837426.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:00

In August, I went on a club ride, but it wasn't spectacular or anything. Also in August 2017, I installed a shorty, angled antenna. I also painted the fog light bezels and grille opening Gloss Black. I also added Large Tupperware Rear Skirts and painted those Gloss Black as well.

I added some MX-5 Silver/Black decals and painted the side marker lights Silver.

Also, I did a custom DIY HID Projector Retrofit to my stock headlights, along with some electronics from The Retofit Source in Georgia and Gloss Black vinyl under the headlights, as well as repainted all the chrome badges Gloss Black.

I thought I was done with the car at this point, but kept changing more after this...

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170808_163640188.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170808_163640188.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170811_190324967_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170811_190324967_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170818_203836229.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170818_203836229.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20170813_110900790_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20170813_110900790_HDR.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:03

In September 2017, I discovered another Silver NB without the Tupperware package on it, and lots of body mods, including a GV front lip. For whatever reason, I removed all of my Tupperware and bought the GV lip and painted my complete interior from Tan to Gloss Black. I also added an MSM spoiler. This "new idea" I had looked awful and I immediately changed it less than a month later!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171015_161314529.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171015_161314529.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171021_092d822843_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171021_092d822843_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171019_154135211.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171019_154135211.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171019_154143174.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171019_154143174.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:07

As my wife and I were driving on the Sept 2017 club ride, we got to talking about what to do next to the little car. Blue is our favorite color! Any shade of Blue. So, sometime in October, I moved forward in a completely new direction!

I had this wild idea that I was gonna make the little NB look like a mini Viper and drop a 302 in it. That was the plan as of December 2017, but plans soon changed, power plant wise....

First, I removed the stock front bumper and ordered a Duraflex Bomber bumper. Then, I ordered Mazda Larfe Tupperware Side Skirts, as I still had the rear bits. Lastly, I ordered a Duraflex 3 piece Monster Ducktail Spoiler. I also added SS Marine Vents to the hood, (yes I cut holes in the hood). From October to mid December, I worked on installing all of these pieces and on Christmas day of 2017, it looked like this!

I just rattle canned the new parts Silver, just so it didn't look like a beater.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171203_153006676.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171203_153006676.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171222_170622534.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171222_170622534.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171224_163659140.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171224_163659140.jpg.html)

Christmas 2017 was the only day it left the garage between late October 2017 and late March 2018.... Paint was next :)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:10

From the end of December 2017 to pretty much the end of March 2018, I continued to sand, primer, fill, sand, fill, sand, etc., to the new bumper and spoiler.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171203_140044510_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171203_140044510_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171210_154145082.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171210_154145082.jpg.html)

I also ordered some 18,000 mile NB2 tail lights from Tom @ The Parts Group in Florida.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20171115_200747056.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20171115_200747056.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:16

I installed a Raceland 4-2-1 header.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180131_151830930_TOP.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180131_151830930_TOP.jpg.html)

Bought a new Cobalt SS 2.5" midpipe/cat from Moss Miata

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180131_152055807.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180131_152055807.jpg.html)

Also picked up an almost new Cobalt Dual Exhaust Muffler for $230 shipped!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180201_172448068.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180201_172448068.jpg.html)

This was a half day project and I tore my hands all to pieces! But here's the pile of stock mess afterwards!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180121_153841229.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180121_153841229.jpg.html)

Since ITB's weren't in my future, I decided to make my own Randall CAI.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180217_202755445.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180217_202755445.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:18

My father and I used to restore antique tractors and resale them. I'm not bad with a spray gun and in this post, I started to paint all my jambs and under hood/truck lid.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180204_172130903.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180204_172130903.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180218_172912199.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180218_172912199.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180315_213113997.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180315_213113997.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180315_213122851.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180315_213122851.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:21

I covered everything with plastic, in my tiny garage one night. It was chilly in March, for Alabama at least, so I had to wait a few days before I could paint it.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180318_081519783.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180318_081519783.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180323_161016980.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180323_161016980.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180323_161026998.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180323_161026998.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180323_161059067_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180323_161059067_HDR.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:25

Before I painted the car, I installed a MOMO 320mm Monte Carlo Leather Steering Wheel with a Daikei Boss Hub, and a custom 1-off set of reverse gauges from Adam @ Revlimiter

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/combine_images.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/combine_images.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180317_180533145.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180317_180533145.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180317_180611085.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180317_180611085.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:33

After the car dried, I installed an OBX Chrome "Cobra" style fuel cap.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180324_182859595.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180324_182859595.jpg.html)

I also ordered some side/door "Roadster" decals from Stripe Garage.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180325_205245845.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180325_205245845.jpg.html)

I also installed a "Mazdaspeed NC License Plate Surround" from Moss and also a "Roadster" emblem, (which is no longer on it), from Carbon Miata and an almost new pair of NB2 Tail Lights.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180328_203946809.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180328_203946809.jpg.html)

After paint, I noticed the new Cobalt Dual Exhaust wasn't straight and wouldn't stay straight after I drove it, so I took it to a muffler shop and let's just say it's straight now...

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180330_073232427_TOP.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180330_073232427_TOP.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:34

I wanted to make my gauge cluster different from others, so I emailed Adam @ Revlimiter again and ordered these Custom Gauge Rings by Garage 5 and Revlimiter's Amazing Lenses!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180406_152730116.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180406_152730116.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180408_180635047_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180408_180635047_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:37

This is the "mod" I should've done first, over any other thing! I talked to Bethany Garage and ordered a Black Hard Dog Deuce Center Braced Roll Bar. It took a couple of hours to install, but wasn't too difficult with 2 people.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180415_134019720_LL_1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180415_134019720_LL_1.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180417_205006621.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180417_205006621.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180418_174355377.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180418_174355377.jpg.html)

I also did a crappy job of spraying black peel coat on the NB2 wheels.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180416_171028137.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180416_171028137.jpg.html)

While we went out riding one day, we found this cool old steel open bridge!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180421_133021156_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180421_133021156_HDR.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:41

My moms husband came to look at the car one day and he and I were talking about stripes. I thought about a close dual white stripe, like an AC Cobra. He suggested it be black, instead of white. Then, what I found was even better, so I made another order with Stripe Garage and this happened next.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180428_094749332.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180428_094749332.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180428_115650419.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180428_115650419.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180428_143948082.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180428_143948082.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180428_144036866.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180428_144036866.jpg.html)

On the way home. from the guy who put the stripes on, I found this old cotton gin and thought it would make a nice pic!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180428_144757126.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180428_144757126.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:42

Since I finally got the stripes installed, I could put this little gem, I got from Adam @ Revlimiter a while ago.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180429_185044133.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180429_185044133.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180429_185100118_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180429_185100118_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:50

My wife and I had been talking about traveling to North Carolina to Deals Gap AKA The Tail of the Dragon. For those of you that don't know about it, it's 318 curves in 11 miles! I've wanted to go to the Dragon for 20+ years and this would be our first trip :jump:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/RideMePoster_2015.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/RideMePoster_2015.jpg.html)

So, I checked my fuel filter and it was nasty!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180508_185456967.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180508_185456967.jpg.html)

So, I replaced it with a new AC Delco one.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180508_164443596_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180508_164443596_LL.jpg.html)

Also, replaced plug wires and plugs and built a little tool roll bag, that fits nicely into a little area between the fuel tank and seat belt tower on the passengers side. It's not my idea, I found it online somewhere.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180510_170938620.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180510_170938620.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180510_170947246.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180510_170947246.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180510_171047468.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180510_171047468.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180510_172840272.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180510_172840272.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 21:58

So, the wife and I took off a couple days from work in May 2018 and planned to go to Deals Gap, NC for a few days. We were going to leave Wednesday afternoon, after work and when we got off work, there was rain all throughout the Southeast for several days...

We stayed home Wednesday night and it rained all day Thursday too. So, I said eff it, let's get up super early Friday morning and head up to NC anyway. She agreed!

So, we left Huntsville at 3am (Central time) Friday morning and got to the Dragon at 9am (Eastern time). It rained on us multiple times, but once we got to the Dragon, it was beautiful, clear and cool outside.

We made 3 runs up and down the Dragon and then it became overwhelmed with Mustangs and Z-cars, so we headed home, but through the Cherohala Skyway, which was an amazing!

The Skyway connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina, and is about 40+ miles long. The Cherohala Skyway is a wide, paved 2-laned road maintained by the Tennessee Department of Transportation and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The elevations range from 900 feet above sea level at the Tellico River in Tennessee to over 5400 feet above sea level at the Tennessee-North Carolina state line at Haw Knob.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180518_091708466_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180518_091708466_HDR.jpg.html)

This pic was about mile 2 from the end of the Dragon, it was a beautiful overlook.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180518_093421844_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180518_093421844_HDR.jpg.html)

This was a massive dam at the beginning of the Dragon.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180518_100211198_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180518_100211198_HDR.jpg.html)

This was an old gas station, near the Tapoco Lodge.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180518_094357568.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180518_094357568.jpg.html)

129photos.com took this pic of us.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/2015411mod.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/2015411mod.jpg.html)

I also made 129photos.com "Featured Photo of the Week", but didn't win the grand prize...
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180521_220110583.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180521_220110583.jpg.html)

This is near the end of Cherohala Skyway, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180518_113440790_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180518_113440790_HDR.jpg.html)

My first and third YouTube videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3sJcvlmtOg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9wpz0DuHEw

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:26

I started looking for some new wheels/tires after the Dragon run. I lucked out and found a set of new 15x7 Advanti Storm S1's in Gloss Black, 1" spacers, Hub-centric rings and Black lugnuts for $350 and in Chattanooga, TN!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180528_103522638.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180528_103522638.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180528_103515772_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180528_103515772_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:30

Everyone told me to hold off on the wheels and buy some 15x8's, but with the spacers installed, they're the same offest as 15x8's. I like the look of the tires on the 15x7's too. I also used locktite blue on the spacer to hub studs. I bought some new 205/50/15 Dunlop Direzza DZ102's.

I used a paint marker from Hobby Lobby to paint the letters. I should've bought a marker for tires though, as the paint's starting to peel off...

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180611_200102828_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180611_200102828_LL.jpg.html)

I love the look off the new wheel/spacer/tire combo and how the Bomber bumper is curved!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180609_173633938.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180609_173633938.jpg.html)

Looking at this next pic, it was now time for a drop!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180609_173624647.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180609_173624647.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:34

In June, I started looking at coilovers and decided to go with Tein's. Nothing special, they're Basis. Never installed coilovers before, so this was a new experience, but adjusting them was another experience :rolleyes:
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180613_174236512_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180613_174236512_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180613_181911683_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180613_181911683_LL.jpg.html)

It was way too low, at the recommended Tein specs, but some people on local groups said it needed to be lower....
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180613_231650134_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180613_231650134_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:37

The next day, after work, I worked on the suspension for several hours, getting the ride height exactly to 13" front and 13.5" rear with a half tank of fuel.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180614_190901243.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180614_190901243.jpg.html)

Then, we went for about 100 mile suspension settling ride, where we encountered some minor rubbing issues. So, I ordered an Eastwood Fender Roller and rolled the fender lips only! I didn't want my fenders bulging out...
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180621_203422637.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180621_203422637.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:39

After I rolled the fenders, I was told I to get some new endlinks. So, I bought 2 pairs of Supermiata 949 Racing adjustable endlinks.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180623_142058360_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180623_142058360_LL.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180621_203330776.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180621_203330776.jpg.html)

Miataoutta

10th November 2018, 22:39

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:48

In late July 2018, a fella in my FB Miata group posted a comment wanting to sell his, practically new FM Voodoo II turbo, wrecked 2005 Automatic LS with 45,000 miles on it! 3 of us in the group were interested in it and he knew I could use just about everything off the car, so we talked a couple of days and made a deal, after the wife approved it Here are pics of his mint NB2 interior and engine.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37392324_1972485252772991_1712535887641837568_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37392324_1972485252772991_1712535887641837568_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37305816_1972485142773002_8094181489278713856_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37305816_1972485142773002_8094181489278713856_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37272452_1972485216106328_3591879964233826304_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37272452_1972485216106328_3591879964233826304_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37334357_1972485209439662_2930229682370510848_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37334357_1972485209439662_2930229682370510848_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37325429_1972485116106338_522350349126729728_n.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37325429_1972485116106338_522350349126729728_n.jpg .html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37488081_1977217722299744_4312444879432056832_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37488081_1977217722299744_4312444879432056832_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37268910_1972485022773014_1256078441439035392_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37268910_1972485022773014_1256078441439035392_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37332793_1972485026106347_2409447430098518016_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37332793_1972485026106347_2409447430098518016_n.jp g.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:50

And the wrecked pics of the '05 LS.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37404793_1973719509316232_5045484402587467776_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37404793_1973719509316232_5045484402587467776_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37334198_1973719832649533_439636228262854656_n.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37334198_1973719832649533_439636228262854656_n.jpg .html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37530064_1973719749316208_2845991346332762112_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37530064_1973719749316208_2845991346332762112_n.jp g.html)

It was difficult, but I actually drove the car onto my trailer, although we had to constantly adjust the ramps, due to the left rear LCA being bent inward badly. When we got home, I actually drove the car into my extra garage.

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 22:52

Before I carried the trailer back to my dad, I removed the passenger side head light and tail light and traded it, even for a nice ACT 9 lb Flywheel, with a fella at the local auto-x. I got the Flywheel resurfaced and a new pilot bearing installed for $112!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_212823990_1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_212823990_1.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:01

After I got back from my dads house, I started working on dismantling the '05. I started around 5-6pm on a Saturday and by Sunday afternoon, it was stripped!

Front disassembly
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180721_202509327.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180721_202509327.jpg.html)

Rear disassembly
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180721_202528707.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180721_202528707.jpg.html)

Cut radiator support out
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_001533595.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_001533595.jpg.html)

Dash, console and seats removed
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_081827701_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_081827701_HDR.jpg.html)

Engine/Turbo/Trans out
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_121134612.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_121134612.jpg.html)

New fabric soft top/frame, new battery, full Sport brake set, and box of misc fasteners
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_214752464_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_214752464_LL.jpg.html)

My huge shelf has been taken over by random Miata parts!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_214759472_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_214759472_LL.jpg.html)

More parts and full FM exhaust
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_215021921.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_215021921.jpg.html)

Mint NB2 seats, dash and carpet
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180722_215027711_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180722_215027711_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:03

They don't make a car like that. Nice, functional, pretty.

Thanks! I just caught your reply, as I was uploading pics :)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:06

I was so tired, that I took off work Monday and pushed the car outside and cleaned up the garage and put my NB1 back inside. Here are pics of what the '05 looks like now. The only things left on the NB2 are front/rear subframes, windshield, fuel tank, and ABS stuff.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180723_180207456_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180723_180207456_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180723_075424647.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180723_075424647.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180723_075432854.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180723_075432854.jpg.html)

Cleaned the garage on my Monday recovering off day!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180723_092837929.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180723_092837929.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180723_092847909.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180723_092847909.jpg.html)

It's hard to believe just a couple months earlier, this same NB2 was taming the Dragon!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/34729749_1908038579217659_4555455327335612416_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/34729749_1908038579217659_4555455327335612416_n.jp g.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:14

I didn't wait long, before I started adding NB2 parts to my NB1. First, I swapped the complete NB2 interior, (YES, the complete interior including NB2 door panels), into the NB1! I read countless posts about the NB2 door panels couldn't be swapped into the NB1. They actually can, if you don't mind hacking you NB1 door up a little bit! During the swap, I also bought a complete 10AE ignition/lock cylinder swap into my car, special Blue key and all!

Removed my old original vinyl top and started removing my NB1 interior.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180728_131354280.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180728_131354280.jpg.html)

Removed my door/top windshield weatherstripping and NB1 dash is out.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180728_134216699.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180728_134216699.jpg.html)

Swapping NB1 harness into NB2 dash, as they are slightly different.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180728_140037186_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180728_140037186_HDR.jpg.html)

NB2 carpet is installed!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180728_145730156_1.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180728_145730156_1.jpg.html)

NB2 dash and door/top weatherstripping installed. Mazda compass/temp mirror wired up!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180728_183017477.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180728_183017477.jpg.html)

Hated to hack up the mint NB2 seat, but I'm 6'5" and HAD to do the seat Foamectomy!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_092352844_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_092352844_HDR.jpg.html)

Installed much nicer frame/fabric top from the '05.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_144034081_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_144034081_HDR.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:23

NB2 door panel swap. Started on the passenger side, in case I screwed up, LOL! Search this guys post, this is the guide I used to do this swap, http://www.cardomain.com/ride/283596...a-mx-5/page-5/

I made a rough template and started hacking up the door.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_120903271.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_120903271.jpg.html)

Lining up the NB2 door handles.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_120857758.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_120857758.jpg.html)

You have to use the connectors from the NB1 door handle and you have to almost straighten out the 2 rods that go to the handle/lock
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_171802303.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_171802303.jpg.html)

Put 2 self taping screws into the handle, to keep in secure.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_171816516.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_171816516.jpg.html)

Test fit of the door panel/bezel. A tiny bit of adjusting was still required.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_164239047_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_164239047_LL.jpg.html)

Perfect fitment!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_174124462.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_174124462.jpg.html)

Finished and secured drivers side
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180729_185723433_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180729_185723433_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:30

I calibrated the Mazda mirror compass and tied the power/ground up, for the ambient temperature display. It's a bit heavy and drops down a little during a drive. I also installed and had to modify the NB1 radio harness to work with the NB2 stock Titanium Double DINN Bose radio, speakers, Titanium A/C controls and Titanium radio/shifter bezels. I also found some 10AE Chrome Door Sills. Also, in the NB2 trunk, he had a new pair of Black/Red "Roadster" Floormats! So, of course, I moved them into the NB1. I kept the Power Door Lock button on the drivers panel, as I'm eventually going to install a power lock/trunk kit.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180731_200456101_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180731_200456101_LL.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180802_221528783_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180802_221528783_LL.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180802_221555918_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180802_221555918_LL.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180802_221954522_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180802_221954522_LL.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180802_222020002.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180802_222020002.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:34

I installed the new Suzuki Cappuccino Washer Bottle that came with the NB2 and also installed the stock NB2 Front Strut Brace. I had to remove my DIY Randal intake tube from the cowl area, as the new washer bottle moved into that area.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180806_182119675_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180806_182119675_LL.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:38

August 2018, one of the local Miata groups had a "Tech Day" at the local Mazda dealer, twice a year. I figured this was a terrific opportunity to get my new alignment eccentric bolts installed, all 8 of them!

I got all 8 bolts installed and Supermiata's Street alignment specs.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180812_065729399.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180812_065729399.jpg.html)

My results
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180812_070955343.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180812_070955343.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180811_160338458_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180811_160338458_HDR.jpg.html)

The tech was upfront with me and said I really needed urethane bushings. Kinda assumed that, since my NB1 has 140,000 miles on stock rubber... Project for Winter 2019!

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:46

Around the end of August 2018, I ended up selling the FM turbo for quite a chunk of money! I've just never been a Forced Induction guy anyway. That's why, when I discovered Quinn's GQM YouTube page, I fell in love with his ITB Miata. I've talked to Quinn a few times and he's talked me out of the ITB route. My plan was use the NB2 bottom end, my NB1 head, with 0.20" shaved off, an MSM cam, valve job, and new Mazda int/exh valve seals.

Anyway, here's the progress of my NB2 bottom end.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180818_122236419.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180818_122236419.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_112152178_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_112152178_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_112609774_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_112609774_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_125221660_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_125221660_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_142115339.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_142115339.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_142217132_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_142217132_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_142223854.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_142223854.jpg.html)

Mirage775

10th November 2018, 23:54

Since the NB2 oil pan had a turbo on it, I had 2 choices. I could buy a new/used NB2 oil pan, which aren't cheap or I can get the local Speed Shop to weld it up for me! I chose the later!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180815_164256491.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180815_164256491.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_110446587_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_110446587_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180819_110455061_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180819_110455061_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180824_142913175.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180824_142913175.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180824_142925757.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180824_142925757.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180824_143006582.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180824_143006582.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180824_180905078_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180824_180905078_HDR.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:03

Still about the end of August 2018, a goodie showed up!

Boundary Engineering 72psi Oil Pump w/billet gear
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/b6fc7286-ffd7-4ef2-b00d-49ba48b1f050.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/b6fc7286-ffd7-4ef2-b00d-49ba48b1f050.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180823_152432884.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180823_152432884.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180823_152446771_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180823_152446771_LL.jpg.html)

Toyota COP kit from Performance Specialty
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181009_133757143.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181009_133757143.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:14

Got the bottom end back together earlier tonight (August 26, 2018) and thought I'd share some pics.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_174741464.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_174741464.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_174754616.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_174754616.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_181415332.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_181415332.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_182418814.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_182418814.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_185145347.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_185145347.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180826_190032346.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180826_190032346.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:20

Sept 8, 2018

I tried to give away the '05 shell, but after failed attempts, I decided to recycle it myself!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180827_130556935.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180827_130556935.jpg.html)

Last weekend, several parts showed up; Gates Competition Timing Belt w/pulleys, Gates Performance Waterpump, ARP Head Studs, Cam Seals, BP5A MSM Int Cam, AEM AFR Complete Kit, OEM Valve Seals and NR-G Ricer Red Steering Wheel Screws :jump:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180831_194310551.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180831_194310551.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180831_195431443_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180831_195431443_LL.jpg.html)

Also, last weekend at some point, I spent a generous amount of time cleaning the top of the block, pistons and cylinder walls.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180901_175316782.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180901_175316782.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:24

On Labor Day, I did some more to the engine build. I installed the new waterpump and timing gears. I put the NB2 alternator back on. I painted the lower timing covers Cast Aluminum. Hopefully, in either October or November, the NB1 engine will come out, possibly the transmission too? I'm still debating if I wanna swap a 6 speed in it?

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180903_112624940_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180903_112624940_HDR.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180903_144809114.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180903_144809114.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20180903_144814967.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20180903_144814967.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:34

October 21, 2018 I had this crazy idea, (that's been in my head for about 20 years!), of building a T-Bucket and posted my Miata for sale. In less than 12 hours, I had 24 people message me about it! I almost sold it to a fella in Virginia, that's watching this build thread but after driving it around last weekend for a few hours, I decided to keep it. The wife said sell it, but later asked me not too.

So, this weekend, we were going to take it out one last time for the year, but it was cold today, mid 40's/low 50's and that's not what we're used to in Alabama... So, about 2pm today, I started removing parts to pull the engine.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_174717352.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_174717352.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_210733496.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_210733496.jpg.html)

My wife came out to the garage a couple of times and said, "You're not gonna pull the engine tonight, are you?" I said, "Nope, just gonna get it ready to pull next weekend."

So, out comes the midpipe and driveshaft
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_210745428_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_210745428_LL.jpg.html)

And before I knew it, 5 hours later, the engine just popped right out! I recommend this load leveler! It's not a Harbor Freight one. I got it on Amazon for $50 shipped and it was a life saver! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_213553575.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_213553575.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_215047432.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_215047432.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_215057780_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_215057780_LL.jpg.html)

This was my drivers side motor mount!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181021_215030924_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181021_215030924_LL.jpg.html)

Throughout the week, I'm going to clean the front subframe and engine bay thoroughly and continue removing engine bay items, so I can FINALLY paint the bay Blue! Also, going to remove all the control arms and get ready to install new Prothane bushings throughout the whole car!

Pulling the diff out as well, along with the PPF as a whole! Gonna swap a 4.1 LSD for my stock 4.3 LSD. Probably clean and paint the PPF too. New diff axle seals and Prothane or Delrin diff carrier bushings!

Within the next month or so, I'll be getting some head-work done to my BP4W NB1 head; MSM Intake Cam, New Mazda Valve Seals, New Mazda Cam Seals, .020" Head Shave, Valve Job!

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:38

10-24-18 Been doing some work on the engine bay the last few nights, removing things and cleaning up all the old nasty grease and muck from the subframe! Also, got the trans off the NB1 engine and got the BP4W head off and cleaned up a little bit. Ordered new Mazda OEM cam and valve seals on Monday, so maybe I'll be able to drop the head. valve/cam seals, and MSM intake cam off at the machine shop next week! I cannot wait to start working on everything again!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181022_184233057.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181022_184233057.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181023_173455186.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181023_173455186.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181022_164347710.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181022_164347710.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:44

October 28, 2018 Dropped off my head at the machine shop yesterday morning, alone with new Mazda Green/Black valve seals, cam seals, and MSM cam! The head's getting a cleaning, pressure testing, standard valve job and do a .020" shave, to increase CR to 10.5:1 Ordered some ARP head bolts for $130 and a Mazda head gasket as well. Head should be ready within 2-3 weeks and cost roughly $300

Last night around 6pm, I started working on removing the diff & PPF. At midnight thirty, I finally came in the house to try to get some sleep. I managed to get the diff and PPF out without much difficulty.

Today, I started working on the Miata about 2pm and got all the control arms removed, as well as pressed all the old rubber bushings out of them and the 2 bushings in the rear knuckle. Installed new Prothane steering rack bushings too. Only got the arms done today and cleaned the garage up.

After I pay for the head work, I'm going to order the suspension/steering parts. Prothane urethane bushings throughout the car and I'm thinking about ordering the bronze sleeve kit from SADfab. Also, thinking about some Performance Engine Mounts from AWR Racing? Delrin carrier bushings will be ordered soon. I have new diff axle seals sitting in the garage. I'm going to order MOOG inner tie rods, outer tie rods, and upper ball joints. Debating on ordering extended lower ball joints?

Enjoy the few pics I have tonight
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_183724992.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_183724992.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_183759399.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_183759399.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_183840848.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_183840848.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_184443857.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_184443857.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_184503987.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_184503987.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181028_184517349.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181028_184517349.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 00:51

Been a hectic week. Wife had knee surgery early yesterday morning, after we got home, I got to work on the Miata while she was asleep. Today, I got the engine bay painted and that's pretty much it. Here are the pics!

Taped up everything I couldn't or didn't want to remove.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181031_113845715.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181031_113845715.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181031_120626548.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181031_120626548.jpg.html)

1st coat sprayed.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181031_122814840.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181031_122814840.jpg.html)

Final coat sprayed.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181031_152128637.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181031_152128637.jpg.html)

Removed all the tape and everything looks great!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181031_185500826.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181031_185500826.jpg.html)

So happy to get this finished! Ever since I painted the car, I thought the Silver bay just looked awful... I'm going to try to get the harness, relays and headlights back in by the weekend, along with some freshly painted parts!

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 01:03

November 4, 2018 Been off for 6 days, but haven't been able to do a lot to the car, as my wife had knee surgery on Tuesday But, I managed to get a little bit done over the last 2 days! I got most of the engine bay wiring/parts back in. I also tried to put my HID ballasts/igniters/relay box in a more secluded, secure area than I had them before. I painted all the "Goldish" brackets, Gloss Black. I also painted a few parts Ford Red. I put my refreshed steering rack in, with its new Red urethane bushings. Also, tried my hand at wrinkle paint. I did so much prep work to the upper/lower intake manifold and the valve cover and sprayed it with VHT Wrinkle Plus Black, then baked everything for an hour @ 300* in the oven. It turned out amazing! I do plan to use a paint dropper and fill in the lettering, on the valve cover, in Red!

Machine shop hasn't started my head yet... They said it'll be 2-3 weeks, but I'll guesstimate 4-6 weeks at this rate... I also have to send my urethane bushings to SADfab and wait 2-3 months for their bronze sleeve upgrade!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_164137422_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_164137422_LL.jpg.html)

Intake manifold cleaned, sanded and taped up.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_124401127_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_124401127_HDR.jpg.html)

1st coat
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_125029196_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_125029196_HDR.jpg.html)

1st coat
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_125032452_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_125032452_HDR.jpg.html)

In oven, about 40 minutes into baking
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_141702880_LL.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_141702880_LL.jpg.html)

Cooling after an hour and a half in the over
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_160141722.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_160141722.jpg.html)

Finished and cured. 3-4 heavy coats of paint and 1-1.5 hours in oven
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_170711262.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_170711262.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 01:09

Also on November 4, 2018, I thoroughly cleaned, sanded and painted the PPF, Gloss Black. Also, here are pics of the valve cover.

Used Aircraft Paint Remover, on my valve cover, that removed the Red, then Gunmetal, then Aluminum paint jobs that have been done to it. Took about 30 minutes, but it came out nice!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_141307953_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_141307953_HDR.jpg.html)

I used a wire brush and got the rest of the colors removed
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_144735057.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_144735057.jpg.html)

1st coat
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_150048157.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_150048157.jpg.html)

3rd/4th final coat
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_151635314.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_151635314.jpg.html)

After about 1-1.5 hours baking in the oven
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_170656000.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_170656000.jpg.html)

PPF
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181104_164208779.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181104_164208779.jpg.html)

Mirage775

11th November 2018, 01:10

And now, I'm finally caught up to present day.

Yesterday, my Energy Suspension Red Front and Rear Control Arm Bushings showed up. Before they get installed, I have to wait till my SADfab kit is ready to order, as that's about a 2-3 months wait, but well worth it!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181110_162152274.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181110_162152274.jpg.html)

Mirage775

12th November 2018, 07:32

Ted Crilly

12th November 2018, 12:36

I really dislike Photobucket nowadays... Can anyone else see my pics anymore?

I can see your pics, albeit with the big photobucket watermark prominently positioned. I like to use imgur.com for photo hosting. The mobile app is not the easiest to use, but no logos or watermarks.

BTW, great build.

Mirage775

12th November 2018, 12:51

I can see your pics, albeit with the big photobucket watermark prominently positioned. I like to use imgur.com for photo hosting. The mobile app is not the easiest to use, but no logos or watermarks.

BTW, great build.

Thanks for compliment! I can see them now and I see that watermark now too. That didn't used to be there... Looks great plastered throughout my pics...

Chris T

16th November 2018, 23:59

Mirage775

17th November 2018, 00:17

I love your dedication and the whole story that I just read. Kinda sad that I am caught up and have to wait for more. Nice work!

Thank you for the compliments! You won't have to wait too long, as I'm about to upload some more pics! I have put so much elbow grease into this car! I think I've wrenched more on this car, then any of my younger man car builds, LOL!

Thanks again! :thumbs:

Mirage775

17th November 2018, 01:11

Yesterday, I had to attend a Water Meeting/Class about an 85 mile round trip from home, but as I was leaving, I got a very unexpected voicemail....? It was the machine shop, letting me know the head was finished! To recap, here's what was done to it:

Cleaned/Hot Tanked
Pressure Tested
Shaved .020"
Complete Valve Job and Valves Adjusted
New Mazda Cam Seals installed
New Mazda Valve Seals installed
New MSM BP5A Intake Cam installed

$309 total and took less than 3 weeks to be completed!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181115_165032902.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181115_165032902.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181115_165143367.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181115_165143367.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/6d7eaeaf-d8ae-4c5c-9d06-27cd86f4e157.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/6d7eaeaf-d8ae-4c5c-9d06-27cd86f4e157.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181115_165431920.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181115_165431920.jpg.html)

Mirage775

17th November 2018, 01:36

Decided my freshly wrinkle coated valve cover needed an extra touch, so I did this:

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181116_212902724.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181116_212902724.jpg.html)

I used this blunt needle syringe and basic gloss red paint from Testors.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181116_215348216.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181116_215348216.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181116_215445522.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181116_215445522.jpg.html)

Mirage775

26th November 2018, 07:32

Mirage775

26th November 2018, 20:50

Tons of things need done to the car, but running out of the green stuff super fast, LOL! So, I ordered some new A/C O-rings, cleaned up the condenser and installed it.
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181122_172555043.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181122_172555043.jpg.html)

Also, finally got around to installing my new diff axle seals. My '02 SE 3.9 LSD diff showed up last Monday, so I cleaned everything up and mated the diff to housing, just gotta get some Prothane bushings for it now.
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181122_163513057.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181122_163513057.jpg.html)

Mirage775

26th November 2018, 21:09

Got my new ARP Head Bolts and Mazda Head Gasket before Thanksgiving. I goop'd up the new head bolts and put them in the block. Installed the head gasket and head afterwards.

https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181123_130455138.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181123_130455138.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181123_130618260.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181123_130618260.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181123_131222002.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181123_131222002.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181123_131234448.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181123_131234448.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181123_131343315.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181123_131343315.jpg.html)

Mirage775

26th November 2018, 21:23

Used the NB2 fuel rail and injectors, as they both only had 45k miles on them, compared to my NB1 parts with 140k miles. Had a question about being able to use the NB2 fuel rail, instead of the NB1 fuel rail, as the rails are slightly different. as the dampers are angled in different directions. Also, got fuel injector seal kits and replaced them on the slightly bigger NB2 injectors, as the insulators were already cracked...

NB1 on top, NB2 on bottom
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_093903620_HDR.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_093903620_HDR.jpg.html)

NB1 on top, NB2 on bottom
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_093922471_HDR.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_093922471_HDR.jpg.html)

New Injector O-rings (3 pc)
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_153802014.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_153802014.jpg.html)

New O-rings installed on NB2 injectors (I have some nice puncture wounds in my index finger, from the pick tool I used to remove the old O-ring Insulators)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_155915067.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_155915067.jpg.html)

Old dried out O-rings
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_161410515.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_161410515.jpg.html)

NB2 rail and injectors mounted to my BP4W head (I hope the NB2 damper doesn't interfere with the NB1 Intake Manifold?)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_161354099.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_161354099.jpg.html)

Mirage775

26th November 2018, 21:26

Ordered a Q-Maxx Coolant Re-route kit and a Gates Performance Timing Belt (Blue) last night, along with a few small gaskets/seals. Decided to start installing the brackets/vacuum lines on the intake manifold too.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_172646329.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_172646329.jpg.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181125_172658718.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181125_172658718.jpg.html)

Slick3515

27th November 2018, 12:12

Mirage775

1st December 2018, 09:39

This is a great write up, great work man!!

Thanks! :thumbs:

Mirage775

10th December 2018, 18:19

A few posts above about the fuel rails... They are specific to NB1 and NB2. I had to put the NB1 rail back on, as the upper plenum would not seat to the intake manifold... No biggy, I used the NB2 injectors on my NB1 rail. Just updating.

Not much progress over the last couple of weeks, but a little. Got my Q-maxx reroute partially installed and got my Gates Performance (blue) timing belt installed. Also put the intake manifold back on. It's going quicker than I expected!

I hope by April of 2019, everything that I want to do to it, (besides Rotrex), will be done with it!

Over the weekend, I ordered ARP flywheel bolts, a rear main seal/FM installer tool, FM crank holding tool, 5 speed seals/gasket kit, an dipstick o-ring and a 15k mile NB2 axle/knuckle/hub.

Probably going to order an FM Level 1 Clutch package this weekend! Should have the engine/trans back together soon? Then, I'll have to wait until tax returns for the RB header and maybe a few other upgrades!

Enjoy!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_132257840.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_132257840.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_132301257.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_132301257.jpg.html)

I know it's hard to tell if the timing belt is aligned at I and E, but everything is lined up and there's 19th belt teeth between the cam gear dots. If not, I'll deal with it when it goes back in the car, but everyone has told me it's spot on!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_145551899.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_145551899.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_145609074.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_145609074.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_145732509.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_145732509.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181204_181338652.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181204_181338652.jpg.html)

MX-Brad

11th December 2018, 19:53

Mirage775

12th December 2018, 07:40

Clean and colourful. Great work.

:D Thanks! I'm finally learning that patience is a virtue with this car :rolleyes:

yanxnb

13th December 2018, 01:41

Wow great job that's a transformation!

I saw that you painted your top and it makes me want to do the same for the tan top on my 02 LS... what did you use and any advice?

Mirage775

13th December 2018, 07:36

Wow great job that's a transformation!

I saw that you painted your top and it makes me want to do the same for the tan top on my 02 LS... what did you use and any advice?

Thanks! I painted the original vinyl top with https://www.autozone.com/paint-and-body/paint-vinyl-and-fabric/dupli-color-flat-black-vinyl-and-fabric-coating/645639_0_0 It looked good to me, but I've seen more expensive ways of doing it.

Mirage775

22nd December 2018, 11:22

Got more work done to the engine/trans yesterday. Engine is finally off the engine stand! Not many more parts left to install on the engine. Hopefully, over the next couple of months, I'll be able to stock up on some new parts and drop everything back in around February!

Torqued crank bolt using FM's overpriced tool :D
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181220_155227927.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181220_155227927.jpg.html)

Also, installed a new rear main seal, with FM's seal installer.
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_144357273.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_144357273.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_144653120.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_144653120.jpg.html)

Put a new O-ring on the oil dipstick tube.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_145242000.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_145242000.jpg.html)

Was excited to install my 9lb flywheel, but after test fitting the pilot bearing on the trans shaft, I noticed there was a good bit of play, so I removed it. I also have ARP Flywheel bolts to use as well!
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_151740777.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_151740777.jpg.html)

The machine shop that resurfaced the flywheel, charged me like $20 bucks for an incorrect sized pilot bearing.... I will be ordering a Spec clutch kit next week, so it should have the correct sized pilot bearing in it.

Mirage775

22nd December 2018, 11:27

I replaced the transmission input/output seals too. This is the video I watched: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrkonXKkSKI

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_155003426.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_155003426.jpg.html)

Input old seal. This was a bit of a pain, but after using the torch, it popped out fairly quick.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_152947984.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_152947984.jpg.html)

New input seal installed. I hoped it's seated all the way in. The video said it pushed in easily, but mine was a different story... I used a big socket around the perimeter and a little black RTV and it looks even all the way around it. I hope it's sealed...
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_161056621.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_161056621.jpg.html)

Installed the housing back onto the trans. I used some blue locktite on the threads. 4 of the 6 bolts clicked at the proper torque setting, but the other 2 did not, so I didn't tighten them any more than the others :)
https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_164539687.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_164539687.jpg.html)

The output seal was much easier to remove and install! Popped it out with a hammer and flathead. Used a small rubber mallet to tap the new seal in. Note, there's an up and down marked on the seal.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181221_161119401.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181221_161119401.jpg.html)

Mirage775

22nd December 2018, 11:30

I've ordered Prothane red diff bushings, a wheel seal, new clutch fork boot and an Oil Pressure Gauge kit: https://www.good-win-racing.com/Mazda-Performance-Part/60-1247.html

Next week, after I score Xmas money, I'll be ordering a Spec brand clutch kit, unsure if it'll be a Stage 2+ or Stage 3 kit. The reason being with one of these stages is, if I go with my forced induction plan of installing a Rotrex Supercharger in the future, I want everything in the car to be ready for it!

I may be switching to Igmur for posting pics in the remaining updates. Photobucket has become completely unreliable in the last year or so. It took me 2 hours to upload less than 10 pics this morning... :ohno::realmad:

Mirage775

5th January 2019, 09:50

Tiny update! Around the holidays, I removed my old fluorescent lights and installed 6 new LED light fixtures! The difference is like night and day!

https://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181226_132521626.jpg (https://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181226_132521626.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181226_132536117.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181226_132536117.jpg.html)

Also, forgot about my Mazda RX-2 emblems I won on ebay, a couple of months. I cut the RX-2 parts off. I'm going to attempt to hand polish, paint the lettering red, and seal them and use one on the rear panel. The other one may be for sale.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181226_131402336.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181226_131402336.jpg.html)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20181226_131631124.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20181226_131631124.jpg.html)

I finally ordered and received my ES Poly Rear Diff bushings last weekend and installed them. Not as bad of a task as everyone said they'd be...
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20190101_144203824.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20190101_144203824.jpg.html)

These on the other hand weren't fun to remove the old hard ass rubber...
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/IMG_20190101_155732011.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/IMG_20190101_155732011.jpg.html)

Finally, I bought a barely used Fidanza 7lb 1.6L Flywheel. I highly doubt this car will ever go F/I, and I'm looking for lightweight drivetrain components.
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/49319453_1187485644736555_6834068566015213568_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/49319453_1187485644736555_6834068566015213568_n.jp g.html)

Mirage775

31st January 2019, 02:16

Small update on my long Winter project.

Finally found a 12mm Hard-S rear sway bar!

Also, found a low mileage 02 SE 6-speed with shifter and all the sensors for a good price!

About to order a Spec Stage 2+ clutch kit from TDR soon!

Still in a long line, waiting on SADfab's Bronze Sleeve kit for ES control arm bushings! Got on list in October '18!

Hopefully taxes will get me, a new Racing Beat header and Fab9 engine mounts, so I can finally get the new engine and everything back in the car! Shouldn't be much left to finish it.

Looks like it'll be April/May before it's back together...?

Shadetreemechanic

7th February 2019, 01:37

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 02:09

Big update!

I'm a flywheel changing fool! I'm own my 3rd flywheel and the car's still not back together!

I've been talking with William at Track Dog Racing for the past week and have ordered quite a bit from him this week including;

F1 11lb 1.8L Flywheel
Spec Stage 1 Clutch kit
MSM Motor Mounts
6 Speed Shift Rebuild kit with poly bushing
Front and Rear trans seals
Oil Pressure Sending Unit

Found a deal on a 2002 SE 6 Speed Transmission with 132K miles!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/47087767561_82740e2bce_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eJZ7Mp)IMG_20190213_151936948 (https://flic.kr/p/2eJZ7Mp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

F1 11 lb Flywheel, with ARP Flywheel bolts
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7902/47057103322_d8c1860b10_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgXnC)IMG_20190215_210339911 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgXnC) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Spec Stage 1 Clutch w/Steel PP
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7865/47057102892_3673c9446a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgXfd)IMG_20190215_211245060 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgXfd) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Removing old trans input shaft seal, with a little heat!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7920/47057102412_0cecc13505_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgX6W)IMG_20190215_214740516 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgX6W) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

New trans input shaft seal installed!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7925/47057102032_fd3ba745d0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWZo)IMG_20190215_220341827 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWZo) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Removed old trans ouput shaft seal.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/47057101822_8fe1886326_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWVL)IMG_20190215_222807503 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWVL) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

New trans output shaft seal installed!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/46195575875_f807a469a3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2do9ph8)IMG_20190215_223100075 (https://flic.kr/p/2do9ph8) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Trans mated to engine, with new clutch fork boot, as well as the starter and new MSM motor mounts installed!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7904/47057101182_8171aa0d39_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWJJ)IMG_20190215_230700561 (https://flic.kr/p/2eGgWJJ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Happy the car's getting back together!

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 02:19

Also got a custom shift knob and e-brake handle made.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7850/46343544354_e196334537_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdM9N)50523361_450292518840928_89994447084679331 84_n (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdM9N) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

And picked up some Jeep Commander air vents last weekend.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7920/46343543864_47ebcc27d6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdM1m)IMG_20190209_113725744 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdM1m) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Got my control arm bushing zerk fittings from SADfab and some extra bushings sticky lube from FM.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7802/46343545174_c324394996_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdMoW)IMG_20190112_194750957 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBdMoW) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7887/40102506083_2c7585c978_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/246HPUF)IMG_20190112_194814815 (https://flic.kr/p/246HPUF) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 02:25

Finally got my 12mm Hard-S rear sway bar!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7843/33212706098_f0aae00462_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SATNpL)IMG_20190131_153934283 (https://flic.kr/p/SATNpL) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Also, hacked up my NB2 door panel handle, to free up some left leg room, (since I'm insanely too tall for a Miata!) and do a little fill work to it and be done with the handle mod.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7857/33212708628_9a903e5d13_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SATPao)IMG_20190131_154041812 (https://flic.kr/p/SATPao) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7847/33212708188_c209b255c5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SATP2N)IMG_20190131_154103268 (https://flic.kr/p/SATP2N) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 02:34

Teaser for the next big update, which should be here by next week!

Ordered Carbon Miata Vintage LED Dual tail lights
https://www.carbonmiata.com/shop/mazda-mx-5/vintage-led-dual-tail-lights/

Misc. odds and ends needed to put the car back together from various companies!

Ordered a bunch of goodies from Adam @ Revlimiter tonight!

Also, have a Racing Beat NB2 Header on the way, along with a TDR Alloy Radiator.

Should have the engine/trans and diff installed next weekend! It's been a long time coming!

As of right now, I'm planning to boost the car with a Rotrex Supercharger, but it will not be anytime soon..., maybe 2 years out :(

I have a ton of cosmetic goodies I want to buy and hopefully, everything but the supercharger will be installed by April/May of this year!

ambystom01

16th February 2019, 17:05

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 17:15

Where'd you get the Jeep Commander vents?

Local Junkyard. I have another set, I'll PM you.

samhain00

16th February 2019, 19:12

Mirage775

16th February 2019, 20:36

ill be keeping an eye on those tail light. should look awesome

It'll be a bit before you'll be able to fully tell how good or bad they look, since the back of my car is about 1.5' from the back of my garage, LOL!

Poor NB's don't get a lot of choices for tail lights, unfortunately.. :( I thought about knock off Garage Vary lights, but they're $300 and I've read they need a ton of work on fit and finish.

I was on the fence about the Carbon Miata Vintage lights, but these were $455 shipped and are genuine and from a good company. Plus, you no longer have to solder in a resistor for fast blinking, as Marc said they've started to do it on the newer batch of lights :)

Just keep watching my thread and I'll update it as much as possible and thanks for checking it out! :jump:

Skull

19th February 2019, 13:39

Mirage775

19th February 2019, 18:22

That build thread was amazing.

Thanks, but it's not even finished yet, LOL!:thumbs:

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 00:51

Warhammer

20th February 2019, 00:58

I've been enjoying your build thread. My 2003 is also an ever evolving project that will very likely never be "finished."

I did the Eclipse vent mod. I'm looking forward to seeing the commander vents installed. Please take lots of pics of the installation process.

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 01:03

I've been enjoying your build thread. My 2003 is also an ever evolving project that will very likely never be "finished."

I did the Eclipse vent mod. I'm looking forward to seeing the commander vents installed. Please take lots of pics of the installation process.

Thanks! From my understanding, you just pull out the old vents and pop these right in. There's no trimming on anything. I compared them to my Eclipse ones and they're actually a little shorter! From here on out, I'll have several $200 purchases left to make and hopefully will be back in it by April/May :dunno:

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 19:07

As promised, here's some more pics of the progress from this past Saturday night and Monday.

I painted my Jeep Commander A/C Vents with interior Gloss Black paint, then hand painted around the outer rings with Flat Aluminum! I did this, because I wanted Aluminum Vent Rings from Revlimiter, but he couldn't make any for the Jeep vents, so I did the next closet thing :) They're going to get a 2nd coat, maybe a third coat, of Aluminum soon.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7860/46237396935_1da383bd68_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQKdT)IMG_20190219_162551385 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQKdT) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Next, I painted my rare 12mm rear sway bar Gloss Red and painted the mounts Gloss White. I just wanted to have it match my front RB sway bar. The only powder coating company in town wanted $180-$200 to do this, which I thought was a little over the top!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/46237390175_2e47361aea_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHdk)IMG_20190219_191913026 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHdk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I started cleaning my Sport Brake Calipers and when I took on the drivers front caliper, the stationary bolt, that's supposed to stay in the caliper bracket, sheered off.... So, I had to buy a new caliper and bracket. This time around, I'm going to paint my caliper Red, as there are going to be some exterior red accents on the car, once I get finished with it. So, I think the Red will look better than the Burnt Copper this time?
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7831/46237391915_3bf432ecea_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHJk)IMG_20190219_174906251 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHJk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 19:15

Yesterday afternoon, another 2 packages showed up! One was my Racing Beat Header!!! :jump: And the other was my TDR 40mm Aluminum Radiator :thumbs: Also received a new Mazda exhaust manifold gasket, the rest of the shifter rebuild pieces and a header EGR cap. As well as new Energy Suspension Red 12mm Rear Sway Bar Bushings!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/46237395465_b395e93745_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJMx)IMG_20190219_162755966 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJMx) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7850/46237395015_e2171f27d8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJDM)IMG_20190219_162804314 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJDM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7914/46237394645_a6a37b202a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJxp)IMG_20190219_162818034 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJxp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7897/46237394225_f0dbaedc54_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJqa)IMG_20190219_162911132 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJqa) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7867/46237393935_f2b8daae2e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJka)IMG_20190219_163000722 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJka) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7841/46237396545_79d8f9d8ab_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQK7a)IMG_20190219_162711756 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQK7a) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7889/46237396045_734a297b99_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJXx)IMG_20190219_162728612 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJXx) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7831/46237393565_3641e26edb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJdM)IMG_20190219_163034657 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJdM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7820/46237392725_cb02157de2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHYi)IMG_20190219_171300027 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHYi) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 19:19

We got hit with a huge thunderstorm last yesterday, so during a small break in the weather, I carried all my parts out to the garage. I installed the header on the head and torqued it down and just was amazed at how beautiful it was :rofl: I also put on a new Mazda oil filter and installed the TDR oil pressure sending unit on the block. I also put the new pieces in the shifter turret.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7871/40186606453_a60ae8717b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24e9S24)IMG_20190219_174858320 (https://flic.kr/p/24e9S24) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 19:24

I was going to tinker around in the garage a little while, then go inside and take it easy for a while. The weather changed those plans, :rofl:! The bottom feel out and it got super chilly in the garage, which gave me a chance to test out my new Mr. Heater 45000-BTU Portable Propane Tank Top Propane Heater, that I bought at Lowe's yesterday for a hell of a deal!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7888/46237393275_298d0042f3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJ8M)IMG_20190219_164232448 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJ8M) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/46237392975_950fc52b17_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJ3B)IMG_20190219_164413858 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQJ3B) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 19:31

The rain was still coming down super hard and I wasn't planning on attempting to run into the house and get soaked at the same time! So, after it got nice and toasty in the garage, I did this....

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7917/40186605713_74e393bcc9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24e9RNi)IMG_20190219_182207768 (https://flic.kr/p/24e9RNi) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7898/46237391295_0640d8a59a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHxD)IMG_20190219_182428683 (https://flic.kr/p/2drQHxD) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7862/40186605053_14bf6f650d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24e9RAV)IMG_20190219_185155119 (https://flic.kr/p/24e9RAV) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7821/47151610721_e8198487be_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eQCk8x)IMG_20190219_191923057 (https://flic.kr/p/2eQCk8x) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

It took maybe 45 minutes to get it back into the car. Went easy enough for a 1 man job! Had some trouble getting the drivers side motor mount bolt through the middle hole. Then, once I got it in, the passenger side gave me trouble, LOL! But, the engine and trans are finally back in the car and I'm super excited!

ambystom01

20th February 2019, 21:01

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 22:11

The revlimiter rings don't fit the Jeep vents? Darn.

Unfortunately they do not fit. In the pic below, the faces are shaped completely different and the Commander vent looks a tad bit smaller than the OEM Miata.... Anyway, this is what Mr. Revlimiter told me over the weekend:

"Hey Jason,

I can do all of that except for the vent rings. I don't make them. I have a shop that happens to have a size of ring for the Miata. It's just a coincidence that they fit and not something that can be custom made.

Thanks!
Adam"

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/46247735145_8320519436_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJpT)IMG_20190220_191447304 (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJpT) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

ambystom01

20th February 2019, 22:12

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 22:31

Well I'll give it a shot, since I'll soon have both...

Cool! Since I swapped over the complete '05 interior into my '00, it had the Silver/Titanium door handles and radio/shifter surrounds. I really wanted the brushed vent rings from Adam. Especially since I have the instrument cluster rings from Adam! I could always try to find a machine shop that could make me something, but I'm sure it wouldn't be cheap...

Mirage775

20th February 2019, 22:38

Tonight, I got the diff back in, put the freshly painted rear sway bar on, (no pic yet), and put all the new parts on the shifter. Also, went to the Ford dealer earlier today and bought the very pricey trans fluid @ $30/qt!!!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7854/40197019993_6a4013f35b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24f5eAR)IMG_20190220_191151020 (https://flic.kr/p/24f5eAR) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/46247735605_680b9d0e48_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJxP)IMG_20190220_191224623 (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJxP) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7802/46247736395_1bdb77aceb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJMr)IMG_20190220_194834978 (https://flic.kr/p/2dsKJMr) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7834/40197018633_5248586324_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24f5ecp)IMG_20190220_194648992 (https://flic.kr/p/24f5ecp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

flaneur

21st February 2019, 02:55

Shiny! I just read through the whole thing. Well, I looked at all the pictures and read most of it. ;) I was waiting to see what color you painted the transmission?!?

A couple of hours after those clouds unload on you, they unload on me. You guys could keep more of it and we would not mind so much.

Disclaimer: what follows is funny. Anyone who does not think it is funny is just not from around here, m'kay? So I opened up page one and hit the scroll button looking to see if the pictures were worth the read. It is possible that I saw the first post and it did not register in my conscious mind, but maybe not. I'm scrolling and scrolling and I stop and say out loud, this guy has got to be from Alabama. Before any of you good neighbors in Alabama start wondering whether I just said something rude, my mother's people are from Decatur. One of her brothers lived in Huntsville and worked at Redstone - Marshal for something like four plus decades. I'm just saying...

That looks a lot like Ford Blue as in Ford Tractor. ? I have threatened to paint a few things John Deere Green and Yellow, but not cars. Not yet anyway.

Mirage775

21st February 2019, 08:03

Shiny! I just read through the whole thing. Well, I looked at all the pictures and read most of it. ;) I was waiting to see what color you painted the transmission?!?

A couple of hours after those clouds unload on you, they unload on me. You guys could keep more of it and we would not mind so much.

Disclaimer: what follows is funny. Anyone who does not think it is funny is just not from around here, m'kay? So I opened up page one and hit the scroll button looking to see if the pictures were worth the read. It is possible that I saw the first post and it did not register in my conscious mind, but maybe not. I'm scrolling and scrolling and I stop and say out loud, this guy has got to be from Alabama. Before any of you good neighbors in Alabama start wondering whether I just said something rude, my mother's people are from Decatur. One of her brothers lived in Huntsville and worked at Redstone - Marshal for something like four plus decades. I'm just saying...

That looks a lot like Ford Blue as in Ford Tractor. ? I have threatened to paint a few things John Deere Green and Yellow, but not cars. Not yet anyway.

Thanks for looking at everything. That's why I'm posting a ton of pics, in case people don't want to read everything :)

I didn't paint the transmission at all, that's the OEM Aluminum, I just cleaned all the grease/oil off it.

I don't want what's after all these high winds, t-storms and Summer temps, but it IS that time of the year unfortunately....

I've lived in Madison County almost all my life! I did live in Columbus, GA for a year or so, when I was 6-7 years old. My mother worked at the Redstone Arsenal for 40 years before retiring!

And, yes, I painted the Miata Ford Tractor Classic Blue :rolleyes:

Mirage775

22nd February 2019, 22:59

Revlimiter goodies showed up today! He does absolutely amazing work for such a reasonable price!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/47130032722_b8d81e8102_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eNHJK5)IMG_20190222_204846887 (https://flic.kr/p/2eNHJK5) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I ordered some "ROADSTER" door sill inserts, 6-speed shifter plate, Horn button (Red/Black Elanore), Keychain (Red/Black Elanore) and Wheel Center Caps (Red/Black Elanore)!

Still have a couple more things to purchase from him, over the next few months!

flaneur

22nd February 2019, 23:53

Yea, that was me not saying, dude you did not paint the transmission. ;)

I forgot to ask, what did you paint the tan interior plastics with? How durable is it?

Mirage775

23rd February 2019, 07:38

Yea, that was me not saying, dude you did not paint the transmission. ;)

I forgot to ask, what did you paint the tan interior plastics with? How durable is it?

Ah, I read the "trans painting" wrong, my bad.

I could've sworn I posted what I used, but I guess I didn't, LOL! I used Dupli-Color Vinyl and Interior spray paint. It's durable, if you apply it correctly, as in the prep. Clean it thoroughly with alcohol or the little expensive wipes Dupli-Color sells.

However, it's not very durable on the seats, rather the seat that gets used the most.... :ohno: I was going to get my seats recovered, but then I got the amazing deal on the wrecked '05 LS with 42k miles and put the completely new Black interior into my car and couldn't be happier!

Mirage775

24th February 2019, 01:23

Worked on the Miata for the majority of the day into the night today. Got the PPF back in and attempted to align it to 66mm, but could only make it to 63.32, assuming that's because of the Energy Suspension Diff Bushings and the new MSM Motor Mounts? Also, got the midpipe back in and the driveshaft too.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7866/47192957791_1dcdf8d124_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eUhfb4)IMG_20190223_112621827 (https://flic.kr/p/2eUhfb4) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/47192955761_7a4341f17c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eUhez4)IMG_20190223_223415925 (https://flic.kr/p/2eUhez4) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Got all the engine/trans connections back where they're supposed to go. Couldn't fire it up due to, Gates belts are being shipped at the moment and I have no intake setup yet. I filled the diff, trans and engine. Got everything back on the engine. I'm getting close, but not there just yet :jump:
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7922/47192956861_b31cdf1a30_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eUheU2)IMG_20190223_160949575 (https://flic.kr/p/2eUheU2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/46278715305_a096b297cb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvJz)IMG_20190223_182239704 (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvJz) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7885/46278714235_8b5753f3b9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvq8)IMG_20190223_223540491 (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvq8) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7898/46278716085_a3a0917fd6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvY2)IMG_20190223_125137806 (https://flic.kr/p/2dvuvY2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

flaneur

24th February 2019, 03:00

Thanks. No, my bad. Yea, I would not trust any kind of dye on leather unless it was the color of my usual attire - blue jeans. The plastic bits, maybe. Depends on how long it takes me to find some black bits cheap or maybe I will learn to love parchment. The learn to love part is not likely. There is an upholstery shop about a mile from my house. Time to do more serious research.

I have looked at a couple of wrecks with potential, but I do not have a place to hide one once I got it home. SWMBO has been crystal clear on no junk cars...

Marshal / Redstone is not a huge place. My uncle Clifford probably knew your mom. He was a machinist that made all sorts of strange and exotic bits.

Mirage775

24th February 2019, 08:53

Thanks. No, my bad. Yea, I would not trust any kind of dye on leather unless it was the color of my usual attire - blue jeans. The plastic bits, maybe. Depends on how long it takes me to find some black bits cheap or maybe I will learn to love parchment. The learn to love part is not likely. There is an upholstery shop about a mile from my house. Time to do more serious research.

I have looked at a couple of wrecks with potential, but I do not have a place to hide one once I got it home. SWMBO has been crystal clear on no junk cars...

Marshal / Redstone is not a huge place. My uncle Clifford probably knew your mom. He was a machinist that made all sorts of strange and exotic bits.

I'm glad my wife doesn't get upset with things I bring home, LOL!

As far as the interior bits, check with Tom Neel @ The Parts Group in Florida or Trey Walker @ Mr. Miata Nut in Mississippi. They're the only 2 that I could think of at the moment. NB2 bit should be easier to find, than NB1's.
The interior paint looks fine on the plastic parts and even the vinyl top, before I switched out the tops, but the seats were bad. Although the paint didn't transfer to my pants, it just sort of disappeared in spots and you would see the Tan underneath. I cleaned them 3 different times and resprayed them 4-6 times and it always resulted in the paint disappearing in spots....

I had found a place online that had black seat covers, like actually replacements, not slip over covers, for $200-$250, that my wife was planning on getting me for my birthday, last year. Luckily, I bought the wrecked '05, 4 days before my birthday :jump:

Mirage775

24th February 2019, 21:31

Got most of the parts from Revlimiter installed today. Door Sill Inserts, Epic Horn Button and Wheel Center Caps. Relocating my Bad Boy Air-horn to a more accessible area. Cleaned up my control arms, sanding the areas smooth (where the bushings go) and drilled and tapped the arms for the zerk fittings. Installed my Jeep Commander vents, (no pic), sorry. Did a few things that needed to be done. I also started painting the control arms and Sport calipers. Worked most of the day.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7848/46288224625_2b4b7e4573_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkfwn)IMG_20190224_090034788 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkfwn) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7873/46479294224_6ac2d6395e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwRN)IMG_20190224_090246665 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwRN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/46288223475_4e9078879a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkfbx)IMG_20190224_091451133 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkfbx) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7864/46479291934_d027149acd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwbj)IMG_20190224_093559393 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwbj) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7855/46479293064_0c971475eb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwvN)IMG_20190224_092946661 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwvN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7879/46288222215_7ea7e1a67c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkeNP)IMG_20190224_093216593 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkeNP) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7888/46479291554_0383523387_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdw4L)IMG_20190224_115843166 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdw4L) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/40237921783_da6fd483f3_c.jpg ([url=https://flic.kr/p/24iFSrM]https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7831/40237922343_3cde3dde11_c.jpgIMG_20190224_174150127 by Jason M., on Flickr)IMG_20190224_174159719 (https://flic.kr/p/24iFSh8) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

2nd March 2019, 20:06

Got a few things in the mail over the last few days, one which I was very surprised to get this soon! My Carbon Miata Vintage Tail Lights! I also got my Cobalt Cold Air Intake and Racing Beat Rear Subframe Brace. New Gates accessory belts came in earlier in the week too.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7905/32319270167_2a725e173e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWH2Z)IMG_20190302_103226754 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWH2Z) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7857/32319269517_5cfd0de187_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGQM)IMG_20190302_104002500 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGQM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Close-up
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7894/32319268767_3bdd68c03f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGBR)IMG_20190302_104005795 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGBR) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Back of lights
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/32319267957_84531dcff0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGnT)IMG_20190302_104025622 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWGnT) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Racing Beat Rear Subframe Brace
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7834/32319266007_ae9001d041_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWFNg)IMG_20190302_161050661 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWFNg) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Cobalt CAI
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/32319266667_30c8424aae_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ReWFZD)IMG_20190302_121351091 (https://flic.kr/p/ReWFZD) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7878/46346579975_1f63538a08_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dBukx6)IMG_20190302_161853879 (https://flic.kr/p/2dBukx6) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

2nd March 2019, 20:37

As I was installing all of the above, I had the battery on charge. Once everything was installed and charged, as nervous as I was, I got in the car and turned the key. It turned over great, but never started :( It was a real letdown, but I started trouble shooting. No fuses were blown. I had fuel pressure and was getting fuel to the plugs. What I didn't have, was any spark... I thought the worst thing, that the fella who made the COP kit, screwed me over on it. I tried everything and still no spark... Luckily, he was online and we talked about it for about an hour and he made a boo-boo, when he was making the harness. Turns out the hot and ground were in the wrong spot on the connector. I went into the garage and swapped them over and turn the key and EUREKA!!! :thumbs:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wsTg0SVnKg

Idle's a little high, which will be corrected tomorrow. And I have a small heater hose leaking, which will also be fixed tomorrow. Alternator belt was a little tight, as it was smoking quite nicely on initial startup, but that was adjusted. No visible leaks, other than the heater hose.

I am quite pleased with the little car though! My list of needed parts is getting much shorter at least! Still waiting in line for the SADfab sleeves for my bushings. Sean has told me 6-8 weeks from last week. I got on the waiting list in October 2018.... Won't be too many updates, until I get those sleeves. I've got a few interior pieces to get and a tie rods, ball joints, rotors/pads, alloy lugnuts, a couple more RB Braces. The list is definitely getting shorter!

Mirage775

4th March 2019, 19:53

This is regarding the Carbon Miata Vintage Tail Lights. Talked with Marc, at CM, over the weekend about the lack of being able to remove the tail lights from the housing, in order to paint them. He said just tape up around the lights, while they're in the housing, then sand, prep and paint...

This was not acceptable for my standards. I clipped off one of the lights, then realized I couldn't remove the other one, due to all the wiring harness mess... So, that was a little disappointing. I just unbolted the lights, taped them up and let them dangle.

The fiberglass isn't very thick either... And there were a few imperfections on the housings, but I worked on them last night, with a little bit of Bondo red spot filler. But, there's spots you can see through the fiberglass, before paint of course.

When I got home from work earlier, I cranked up the heater in the garage. Sanded the light housings and cleaned them with lacquer thinner. I strung a line over my garage door rails and then another wire through the housings and back on the first wire. Let the paint warm up a little bit and put 3 coats of Blue on them! Noticed a couple of runs, here and there, but since you can't remove the damn lights, it's hard to get those hard spots and it caused a run or two. I may be able to "fix" the few I spotted, but it'll be later in the week, if I do. Car's not perfect, so not too terribly worried about it.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7848/40318912723_635657d86f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24qQY4D)IMG_20190304_163726636 (https://flic.kr/p/24qQY4D) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7876/40318913063_8e5050435d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24qQYav)IMG_20190304_163721098 (https://flic.kr/p/24qQYav) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7849/40318912313_d423d1473e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24qQXWz)IMG_20190304_164436576 (https://flic.kr/p/24qQXWz) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7902/46368904845_12c1d717f8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dDsKWD)IMG_20190304_164441170 (https://flic.kr/p/2dDsKWD) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

For what they cost, $455 shipped, you would think they would've been better quality. I like them, better than the knock off GV lights and they're half the price of genuine GV lights and I'll still have a reverse light with these.

Mirage775

5th March 2019, 20:24

Got taillights installed back into the housings and installed on my car. This was the best rear pic I could get at the moment.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7888/40329306403_31b0a1cafd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24rLeK2)IMG_20190305_173331858 (https://flic.kr/p/24rLeK2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/32352148687_3875651f62_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RhRdF2)IMG_20190305_174918813 (https://flic.kr/p/RhRdF2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7888/47241697412_b7d2443c52_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eYA3Lm)IMG_20190305_175834187 (https://flic.kr/p/2eYA3Lm) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7904/32352148337_689e1ebc5e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RhRdyZ)IMG_20190305_180024351 (https://flic.kr/p/RhRdyZ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

ElmerFud

7th March 2019, 22:25

Mirage775

7th March 2019, 22:38

Wow, this is an amazing transformation! You mind me asking how much money you think you've invested into this transformation so far?

Thanks! :thumbs:

I was keeping up with it late 2017, it was about $5000-$6000 including price of car, but then the list just kept getting bigger and bigger and bigger, LOL! I have just about all my receipts. I can add it all up and get near a ballpark, if you're interested? I'll never sell it. I've lost way too much money on all sorts of other vehicles I've invested thousands into. I'm still debating on a supercharger, that's another $5000

Warhammer

7th March 2019, 22:46

Thanks! :thumbs:

I was keeping up with it late 2017, it was about $5000-$6000 including price of car, but then the list just kept getting bigger and bigger and bigger, LOL! I have just about all my receipts. I can add it all up and get near a ballpark, if you're interested? I'll never sell it. I've lost way too much money on all sorts of other vehicles I've invested thousands into. I'm still debating on a supercharger, that's another $5000

That's how I feel about my Miata. It's way to personalized to consider selling it. Once you make that decision, dumping money into it is easier, since you're no longer worried about recouping your investment. I'm planning to turbo mine later this year.

Mirage775

8th March 2019, 00:56

That's how I feel about my Miata. It's way to personalized to consider selling it. Once you make that decision, dumping money into it is easier, since you're no longer worried about recouping your investment. I'm planning to turbo mine later this year.

Yep, as I'm getting older, I really don't want to build anything else. Although, I still would like to have a T-Bucket, but building one myself, I'd need another enclosed garage and it would probably cost around $15-$20K, doing it the way I'd wanna do it. I like Factory 5's '32 Street Rod or one of their Mark IV Cobras, but I've been wanting to build a Cobra since I first saw their ads back in the early 90's and still haven't built one, LOL!

The Miata's paid off, I did that before any mod. I wish I'd done what I wanted to at first, instead of listening to some of the people out there, telling me to just buy inferior parts or replacement OE parts. I did loose quit a bit of money by doing that at first, but we all make mistakes.

Whenever I get done with the build, I was going to post a complete parts list, with what I paid for them. That might take as long as the build's taking, LOL!

Mirage775

10th March 2019, 01:29

Small update.

I removed my TDR Oil PSI Sending Unit and cleaned all the plumbers dope off of it and reinstalled it, to hopefully get a better, working ground.

I also removed the thermostat from the Supermiata reroute housing and checked it several times in boiling water and it's opens right at 195*F and closes not long after I remove it from the boiling water.

Removed the coolant temp sensor as well, as it was covered with plumbers dope. I cleaned it all up and reinstalled it.

Gonna refill the radiator again tomorrow and attempt to bleed the air out properly.

I ordered a custom shifter boot from Redline Leather Accessories. Also order a forged front end service kit for Supermiata. Figured I might as well just replace the ball joints and tie rod outers...

Mirage775

10th March 2019, 22:15

Got a lot of small things done to the car today, so just waiting on money for the remainder of the parts I need!

Refilled the radiator/engine this morning and bled the reroute the proper way. Air bled much better than last weekend! Car dash gauge is working now and went up to around 190F. I also fixed the oil pressure sending unit and adjusted my dash gauge to 72psi, as that's what my Billet oil pump is rated at!

Worked on modding my driver door armrest. Also worked on my RX-2 Mazda emblem, but it didn't work like I wanted it too, so I went to bare aluminum with it at the end. Adjusted a few things that shifted once I started the engine.

While it's still on jack stands, I put it in gear and everything works as it should, without a bit of noise!

Removed my old ball joints and outer tie rod ends on the '05 spindles, (the last ball joint did a little damage to my right front fender...) :( Touched up the paint chip, car's not perfect by any means.

Cut my wheel studs a little bit, so I can use my wheel spacers. Cleaned the blue overspray off my RB front sway bar. Installed my 949 Racing Adj. Endlinks onto my new 12mm rear sway bar. Just did a bunch of minor things.

New shift boot should be here this week. New front end service kit should also be here tomorrow?

SADfab sleeves should be here at the end of the month. I'm going to order my Power Stop Street Warrior brake kit at the end of the month too.

Debating on ordering FM Frame Rails? And later order their Butterfly Brace.

Build's almost done :( Gonna buy some interior, exterior and engine bay shinies soon too!

averyhorton

11th March 2019, 08:39

And the wrecked pics of the '05 LS.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37404793_1973719509316232_5045484402587467776_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37404793_1973719509316232_5045484402587467776_n.jp g.html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37334198_1973719832649533_439636228262854656_n.jpg (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37334198_1973719832649533_439636228262854656_n.jpg .html)

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e380/Mirage775/37530064_1973719749316208_2845991346332762112_n.jp g (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/Mirage775/media/37530064_1973719749316208_2845991346332762112_n.jp g.html)

It was difficult, but I actually drove the car onto my trailer, although we had to constantly adjust the ramps, due to the left rear LCA being bent inward badly. When we got home, I actually drove the car into my extra garage.

EXTRA GARAGE???

Mirage775

11th March 2019, 08:41

averyhorton

11th March 2019, 08:50

Yes, my detached garage, where my car has been this whole time....

I need first garage... LOL! Been thinking about enclosing carport.

Mirage775

11th March 2019, 08:55

I need first garage... LOL! Been thinking about enclosing carport.

LOL! When we were house searching a few years ago, my 4 requirements were, an attached garage, a big yard, close to work and a detached garage :)

Got all those with the house we bought!

I couldn't have a house, nowadays, without a garage... I'd love to have a 4' lift in my garage!

Warhammer

11th March 2019, 08:57

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7864/46479291934_d027149acd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwbj)IMG_20190224_093559393 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwbj) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7855/46479293064_0c971475eb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwvN)IMG_20190224_092946661 (https://flic.kr/p/2dPdwvN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7879/46288222215_7ea7e1a67c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkeNP)IMG_20190224_093216593 (https://flic.kr/p/2dwkeNP) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Love the center caps! We need a profile pic of them on the car.

I already have Eunos "V" badges from Adam for the hood, trunk and horn. I'm going to get the same for my wheels caps to finish the "branding" my car as a Eunos Roadster. Eventually, I might get some stainless door sills and add the Roadster decals like you did. I always get a kick when people ask me what kind of car I drive. Equally fun is watching through a restaurant window while somebody walks a few laps around my car, scratching their head and looking confused... "What's a Eunos???"

Mirage775

11th March 2019, 09:25

Love the center caps! We need a profile pic of them on the car.

I already have Eunos "V" badges from Adam for the hood, trunk and horn. I'm going to get the same for my wheels caps to finish the "branding" my car as a Eunos Roadster. Eventually, I might get some stainless door sills and add the Roadster decals like you did. I always get a kick when people ask me what kind of car I drive. Equally fun is watching through a restaurant window while somebody walks a few laps around my car, scratching their head and looking confused... "What's a Eunos???"

LOL! Thanks! I'll get a lot of pics of it, once it's back together.

I went to a classic car show in October, right before I put it on jack stands, but I didn't enter the car in the show. As I was about to leave, people were walking around my car, it was parked in a normal parking spot, and I overheard them saying, what kind of car is this?! Why isn't it in the show?! LOL! One older fella saw my Mazda "Lotus" bumper emblem and said, "This is a Mazda?????"

Adams products are absolutely great! Don't/can't order much more, as there's not much left for to put on it, LOL! He advised me not to put one of his emblems on the rear end, hence why I bought an RX-2 emblem :)

Mirage775

17th March 2019, 21:14

Haven't gotten much done in a week. Money's holding me back at this point in time. Although, I've ordered V8 Roadsters Frame Rails, a Polished Dual Hood lift Kit from TDR, Valve/Timing Cover Dress-up Bolt Kit, and a few small shinies from Jass Performance!

I misread where Redline Leather Goods was located at, (Europe), and won't get my shift boot for another week or so...

I painted my speedo needle caps and trip reset thingy, Flat Aluminum. I got most of the dash back together.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7902/47355184942_743a1fcf44_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGDU)IMG_20190312_204138681 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGDU) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Also, modified my drivers door armrest and got it reinstalled on the car.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7842/32415682347_182f5a9dc5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RosR1X)IMG_20190311_181359515 (https://flic.kr/p/RosR1X) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Painted and installed my vintage '72 RX-2 emblem on the rear bumper!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7843/47355185212_76bab9d8db_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGJy)IMG_20190312_204054938 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGJy) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Installed my new press-in forged upper ball joints into my control arms. Still waiting on my SADfab sleeves...
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4871/47355184732_85e901ea3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGAh)IMG_20190313_174852671 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGAh) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/47355184432_b35e4de014_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGv7)IMG_20190313_175852217 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGv7) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4849/47355184172_107f484d88_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGqC)IMG_20190313_175900910 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGqC) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Had to modify my Cobalt Airbox shield, as it would not let the hood shut evenly. I also relocated my IAT sensor below the air filter. The hood shuts evenly now, but since I pulled the shield down lower, now the air filter hits the wheel well... I'll have to order a different air filter now... I also painted the "COBALT", on the intake tube, Gloss Red :)
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7852/47355183092_81e026e524_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BG71)IMG_20190317_172544678 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BG71) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Since I'm old school, I grew up in the era where we put our brand of parts under the hood, instead of all over the car :rofl:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4888/46684726044_29c28e99e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2e8nqzJ)IMG_20190317_174908974 (https://flic.kr/p/2e8nqzJ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I also installed Revlimiters Shift Plate on my freshly painted shifter trim piece.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7839/47355185862_8466098a31_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGVL)IMG_20190312_163741676 (https://flic.kr/p/2f9BGVL) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

ambystom01

17th March 2019, 21:26

Mirage775

17th March 2019, 21:29

What gauges are those, they look awesome.

Thanks! They're my 1-off custom reverse gauges from Revlimiter Adam. The rings are also from Adam, but when I bought them, there were only 2 sets left in the world, never to be made again... :(

Mirage775

17th March 2019, 21:42

This weeks' paycheck will be buying a full Power Stop Z26 Street Warrior Rotor/Pad kit! I had the Z23 Evolution kit on my car before I upgraded to the Sport brakes and it was awesome! I'm hoping this kit will be even better than the non-Sport kit?

Also going to order my other 2 Racing Beat Brackets!

It's definitely coming to an end soon...:( Well, until I get my Supercharger at least! But with the coming next 1-2 months, I'll be ordering engine/suspension parts.

Throughout the rest of the year, I'll get my smaller parts, like interior/exterior, since I can add those parts whenever I want too :jump:

Mirage775

19th March 2019, 22:29

Got a late start tonight, but when I got off work, my hood struts and frame rails were on the porch! Cleaned, sanded and painted the rails. They may get installed before the weekend? Installed the hood struts and luckily I had a tap set, as the one TDR included was pure junk... But after I got the hinges tapped, everything else was easy!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7861/32482434307_b69d5905a0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RumY3P)IMG_20190319_194423647 (https://flic.kr/p/RumY3P) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7838/46509104585_cc627db0d2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dRRjrx)IMG_20190319_203317687 (https://flic.kr/p/2dRRjrx) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7873/32482433427_8e581bb788_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RumXMD)IMG_20190319_203348978 (https://flic.kr/p/RumXMD) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7851/32482434737_8df2d2aa23_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RumYbe)IMG_20190319_163957606 (https://flic.kr/p/RumYbe) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7911/47424307161_d9f1745d3d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ffHYhi)IMG_20190319_210015174 (https://flic.kr/p/2ffHYhi) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

This Friday, I'm not ordering my brake kit, not just yet at least. I'm going to order an Oil Catch Can, an S2 Throttle Body and possibly a Jass Performance FLCA Brace.

A few more parts are on the way, tiny, insignificant parts, LOL!

Mirage775

21st March 2019, 21:08

When I got home today, my Redline Custom Shift Boot was here, as well as my Dress-up Valve/Timing Cover Kit from R-Speed.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7833/40472448463_7db5238f2c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSTz)IMG_20190321_153707208 (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSTz) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7885/40472448833_fd7fec4563_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSZX)IMG_20190321_152922172 (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSZX) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

With the help of Mrs. Mirage775, we got the frame rails completely installed.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/40472448253_1a28378cf2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSPX)IMG_20190321_183251049 (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSPX) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7891/47385566002_3cef96d124_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fcipTh)IMG_20190321_183316385 (https://flic.kr/p/2fcipTh) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

After we got the rails installed, I put the interior back together and loosely fit the console and new shift know in.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7825/40472447873_3a4f6c1111_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSHp)IMG_20190321_191143964 (https://flic.kr/p/24EpSHp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

24th March 2019, 19:32

I'm running out of things to do, LOL! Worked on the car a little bit last night and this afternoon. Painted the COP plate, Satin Black, to blend in better with the valve cover. Installed Stainless Steel Socket Headed Bolts in the valve cover, and part of the timing cover, as well as various spots throughout the engine bay. I installed Black Socket Headed Bolts in the fuel rail and under the TB. I removed the OEM throttle body and removed the upper studs too, as I'm getting ready for my Skunk2 throttle body. I repainted the timing cover to Satin Black. I cleaned the white paint from my tires and it actually looks better now, LOL! Doubt I'll mess with paint of tire decals. I also did a slight wire tuck, I relocated the big loom of wire between the intake and valve cover, to the underside of the intake manifold!

I have new Stainless Steel Intake Manifold Bolts on the way here. I also ordered a TDR Vented Catch Can. I'm going to replace all the little gold bolts/nuts with Stainless Steel ones later this week. I'm still waiting on my parts from Jass Performance....?

Hopefully, I'll be ordering a Retro PW Switch this weekend.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7907/32518218567_f8f01b5450_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RxwnsP)IMG_20190323_195236081 (https://flic.kr/p/RxwnsP) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7830/46544739215_c54fbdd379_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dUZXnH)IMG_20190324_171603242 (https://flic.kr/p/2dUZXnH) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7852/46736838454_e72836e8ca_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ecYvMy)IMG_20190324_171549300 (https://flic.kr/p/2ecYvMy) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

26th March 2019, 12:54

Last night, I got my new Skunk2 Throttle Body and new Silicone Intake Red/Chrome Foam Air Filter. I had to buy a 2.5" - 3" silicone adapter for the new larger throttle body. Very professional company, as they sent an authenticity card with the throttle body! The S2 TB deletes having those damn water lines. So, I had to couple the 2 lines together, with a new 3/8" brass coupling.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7922/46557377735_4f6c43518d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dW7Jne)IMG_20190326_102407171 (https://flic.kr/p/2dW7Jne) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7877/33596100228_b604e7de95_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TbLN8o)IMG_20190326_102414554 (https://flic.kr/p/TbLN8o) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I put a set screw into the Cobalt air tube and sealed it. I also plugged the IAT hole in the tube.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7923/33596099538_0be30331f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TbLMVu)IMG_20190326_110441661 (https://flic.kr/p/TbLMVu) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I also replaced every gold/grade 8 fastener, with some kind of Stainless fastener, because that's how boring my life is...
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7802/47472725681_a9c09bdc12_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fk18qn)IMG_20190326_110232820 (https://flic.kr/p/2fk18qn) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

PS Just a little tip, when starting the car, to check base idle, make sure you put the intake manifold bolts back in first....

Mirage775

28th March 2019, 19:37

Got the rest of my engine dress-up bolts today. The last ones were for the intake manifold. They're all installed and it looks so much better now!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7853/47435878282_0da2900d5c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fgKgYo)IMG_20190328_160233553 (https://flic.kr/p/2fgKgYo) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Also, installed a TDR Ventilated Oil Catch Can.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/47488693861_0b01287637_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpYcP)IMG_20190328_160244989 (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpYcP) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7852/47488693401_ca5c9bcae8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpY4T)IMG_20190328_160252048 (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpY4T) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Took a couple of pics of my installed Jeep Commander vents.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7921/47488692621_3e01d8a0e0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpXQr)IMG_20190328_161557911 (https://flic.kr/p/2fmpXQr) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7839/32546832697_2407d48497_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RA42rT)IMG_20190328_161545639 (https://flic.kr/p/RA42rT) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

A little video of the vents in action:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1PEthdjctM

My SADfab sleeves should be here by next weekend? Hope so, as it'll be nice to get everything, but the brakes and wheels reinstalled! About to order a Retro PW and maybe a few more interior bits and as far as I know, the interior "should" be finished? Still waiting on an order from Jass Performance and they're shipping is freaking slow!

Mirage775

30th March 2019, 06:05

Per TDR's recommendation, I rerouted the catch can hose, to a single hose currently. I put a new hose between the PCV valve and intake manifold. At the moment, I cannot find an adequate fitting, to replace the PCV valve and grommet. I'll pursue this in the Winter, when the car's grounded.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7830/40532179193_894c0ee1d3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24KG1KK)IMG_20190329_153853961 (https://flic.kr/p/24KG1KK) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I also removed all the red paint from my RX-2 emblem again, wet sanded and polished it. As much trouble as I'm having with the red painting filling, I think I'm just going to leave it shiny for the time being. I can always paint it again, down the road.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/47498257461_4646b43213_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fnfZ8t)IMG_20190329_160154097 (https://flic.kr/p/2fnfZ8t) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I finally got my order from Jass Performance. So, all that will be installed today!

Warhammer

30th March 2019, 22:06

I also removed all the red paint from my RX-2 emblem again, wet sanded and polished it. As much trouble as I'm having with the red painting filling, I think I'm just going to leave it shiny for the time being. I can always paint it again, down the road.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/47498257461_4646b43213_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fnfZ8t)IMG_20190329_160154097 (https://flic.kr/p/2fnfZ8t) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Try coating the parts you don't want painted with wax (like a crayon), then use a toothpick to apply the red paint inside the letters. Any slop-over will wipe right off the waxed parts. That's what I did (in reverse) to make my chrome/white Roadster emblem into a black/white emblem.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7927/33200737418_57412d408a_k.jpg

Warhammer

30th March 2019, 22:08

Mirage775

30th March 2019, 22:19

Try coating the parts you don't want painted with wax (like a crayon), then use a toothpick to apply the red paint inside the letters. Any slop-over will wipe right off the waxed parts. That's what I did (in reverse) to make my chrome/white Roadster emblem into a black/white emblem.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7927/33200737418_57412d408a_k.jpg

Cool, I'll try that tomorrow :)

Thanks for the pics and video of your AC vent installatin. I might have to get a set of those to replace my Eclipse vents.

You're welcome! I have 2 more sets of Commander vents, if you're interested, they're on the for sale thread.

Mirage775

31st March 2019, 19:49

What I did over this weekend, took a whopping 15-30 minutes, LOL! Finally got the stuff I ordered from Jass Performance and the parts are nice, but the price and slow shipping isn't... And the fact, that I thought I was getting a pair of something I bought and it was only one... That was the soft top retainers, which I'll try to take a pic good enough to see it installed. They're installed to keep the top from getting a rip in it, as the rip's circled in red on the 2nd pic.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7909/46595344345_09aedb7d8f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dZtjvX)IMG_20190331_183533983 (https://flic.kr/p/2dZtjvX) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/46595344175_317dff62f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dZtjt2)IMG_20190331_183604647 (https://flic.kr/p/2dZtjt2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Next, were my Stainless Steel Engine Hooks, that DO NOT come with Stainless mounting bolts or any bolts for that matter... Also installed their Oil Dipstick Handle, on my freshly broken dipstick (it was mint, before I pulled the engine from the '05).
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7925/47510614631_2821f3af8a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fomju8)IMG_20190331_164922401 (https://flic.kr/p/2fomju8) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Lastly, are the Black Chrome Mazda Speed Door Striker Covers.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7818/32568538567_59ea0f6b37_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RBYgR2)IMG_20190331_183515376 (https://flic.kr/p/RBYgR2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Honestly, for what all these parts cost ($126) and 3-4 weeks to get here, I could've gotten something functional, LOL!

Sharpie

31st March 2019, 21:34

diverdale

1st April 2019, 15:46

Mirage775

1st April 2019, 17:39

Very cool build thread. Awesome journey. Congrats.

Thanks! It's coming to an end, but it's been a fun journey!

Wow...what a build! I just sold my '06 Saleen SC and am shopping for a Miata. Stalking the heck out of the forums for inspiration. Not sure I'll be undertaking quite what you've done here though ... not sure I have the fortitude for all that ;) Congrats on a fabulous car though

That's funny, sold a Stang and searching for a Miata :D I'm a Ford/Mazda guy. I'll keep my Miata, but I may be building something else later on, and it'll most like be a Ford!

I think it was discussed back a few posts, but I decided if I was going to have it down for half a year, I was going to build it the way I wanted it, but it got a little out of hand, LOL! Not out of hand in a bad way though! I'm getting excited, as it's just about completed!

It's going to be tough to drop $5k on a supercharger and install it into a car that rarely gets driven, but as I get older, this will be my last, maybe, car I build and have fun with! 240whp in a Miata is plenty for me! One day, it may see a track, but I'm unsure at the moment.

Glad yall are liking the build so far! Thanks for checking it out!

Mirage775

1st April 2019, 17:41

Not much done today, but I got a couple of parts in from Moss, the Stainless Steel Fuse Box Cover and Sunvisor Blanks. Both took a whopping 2 minutes to install, LOL! :rofl:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7925/32575400507_873b5a4ef3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCzrEk)IMG_20190401_153827716 (https://flic.kr/p/RCzrEk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7876/47465077072_c75410a027_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fjjVKN)IMG_20190401_154230350 (https://flic.kr/p/2fjjVKN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

diverdale

2nd April 2019, 12:11

Thanks! It's coming to an end, but it's been a fun journey!

That's funny, sold a Stang and searching for a Miata :D I'm a Ford/Mazda guy. I'll keep my Miata, but I may be building something else later on, and it'll most like be a Ford!

I think it was discussed back a few posts, but I decided if I was going to have it down for half a year, I was going to build it the way I wanted it, but it got a little out of hand, LOL! Not out of hand in a bad way though! I'm getting excited, as it's just about completed!

It's going to be tough to drop $5k on a supercharger and install it into a car that rarely gets driven, but as I get older, this will be my last, maybe, car I build and have fun with! 240whp in a Miata is plenty for me! One day, it may see a track, but I'm unsure at the moment.

Glad yall are liking the build so far! Thanks for checking it out!

Saleen permanently left the garage last night. Now I'm on the hunt for a project. Keep your eyes peeled ;)

Dale

Mirage775

2nd April 2019, 19:50

Saleen permanently left the garage last night. Now I'm on the hunt for a project. Keep your eyes peeled ;)

Dale

I have a friend in North Carolina. He was actually about to buy my car, last Fall, when I was fed up with it, LOL! He found an amazing deal on an MSM and we chat almost daily! Hoping to meet him in a year from now!

If you're on Facebook, join the Southeast Miata group, as well as the 2 Miata BST groups. I think there's a North Carolina group as well. There are always deals and sometimes not deals at all on these groups, LOL!

ElmerFud

2nd April 2019, 21:49

Mirage775

2nd April 2019, 22:22

Now, just get rid of that Bose radio and you'll be done!

No thanks, I like the Bose radio just fine! I'd probably put a radio blank in there, but occasionally we listen to a CD. I'd rather hear the beautiful exhaust notes anyway and I like the look of the stock radio.:thumbs:

Mirage775

3rd April 2019, 22:04

Got the last of my Revlimiter custom parts today and it's awesome, just like everything else from Adam!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7893/40566654763_0850e98049_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24NJH98)IMG_20190403_151828742 (https://flic.kr/p/24NJH98) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Installed in the car.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7865/40566653593_3738d6ce7a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24NJGMX)IMG_20190403_191951733 (https://flic.kr/p/24NJGMX) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Also, got my Clark & Clark trunk strut installed. After I got everything lined up and installed, I put all the trunk carpet trim back into the car. It's nice to get it back together, slowly, but at least it's getting there!
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7819/40566652913_1ea548c268_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24NJGAe)IMG_20190403_194637271 (https://flic.kr/p/24NJGAe) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I noticed a puddle of old, old, old gasoline, right under the lower clamp, where the hose goes into the fuel tank. I tightened the clamp quite a bit and soaked up the puddle. I assume the clamp worked itself loose over the years and dripped down on the rubber. Hopefully, it's fixed after I tightened the clamp up?

Mirage775

6th April 2019, 21:14

I have a friend in North Carolina. He was actually about to buy my car, last Fall, when I was fed up with it, LOL!

Oops, my friend lives in Virginia, not North Carolina.... I don't know what I was thinking, LOL!

Mirage775

9th April 2019, 10:26

Finally got the SADfab Bronze Bearing Retrofit Kit, after a 6 month wait! Very excited!
https://live.staticflickr.com/7818/47519018542_f05615d9b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fp6oF9)IMG_20190408_153951585 (https://flic.kr/p/2fp6oF9) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I had to cut a little channel into the UCA bushings, as these are the only bushings that came into contact with the zerk fittings.
https://live.staticflickr.com/7821/46656503525_a4a3137173_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2e5SM1z)IMG_20190408_161610904 (https://flic.kr/p/2e5SM1z) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Started working on the front, yesterday after, about 4pm. One of my new Supermiata lower ball joints completely stripped on me..., so I had to buy another one from AutoZone last night. Got home and it torqued up fine! Got the front bushings/sleeves installed and everything torqued to spec. I started on the passenger rear side and before I knew it, it was 10:30pm...

Took the morning off today and started working on it at 5:30am. Got everything installed on the rear and everything torqued to spec and my mess cleaned all up by 8:00am! Not too bad, time wise.

I have Formula 5 bushing grease all over my tools and control arms. I need to know what will removed this stuff, as it's super sticky!

My only concern is, now, my adjustable end links aren't anywhere close to where they used to be at.... Were my stock bushings that bad out of whack?

Here's some pics of everything installed and my calipers are just sitting on there.
https://live.staticflickr.com/7860/46656502985_fc3c7e4d9a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2e5SLRg)IMG_20190409_080917999 (https://flic.kr/p/2e5SLRg) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7878/40605925763_69a4f0286d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24ScZ3k)IMG_20190409_082015232 (https://flic.kr/p/24ScZ3k) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7873/47519016852_b8471f712b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fp6ob1)IMG_20190409_082032423 (https://flic.kr/p/2fp6ob1) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7913/40605925163_1f39d8ac9b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24ScYRZ)IMG_20190409_082043736 (https://flic.kr/p/24ScYRZ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

13th April 2019, 00:14

Well, the project for tonight was extremely nerve wrecking! My Aero-Latches from FM, arrived today. I was excited and nervous simultaneously! I waited all day to attempt the install, which is finished, but I will never install these on anything else :rofl: Maybe if the old Quik-Latches weren't already installed, this install might've been easier. I removed the old latches and taped off the areas to be cut. I lined up the latches with the existing holes and marked lines. I waited several hours, then went to China Freight and picked up some hole saw bits and aluminum jigsaw blades. Got started about 7:30pm and finished before 9pm! This need a little adjustment and I'm missing one of the lock nuts... I'm debating on painting the new latches blue. :rolleyes:

https://live.staticflickr.com/7858/47543446982_48d2ac9f60_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAp9)IMG_20190412_135824984 (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAp9) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7874/47543446902_74244a42fa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAnL)IMG_20190412_135832203 (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAnL) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7880/47543446722_7da6ddaca9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAjE)IMG_20190412_140414636 (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAjE) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7821/40630353963_9e138a45f8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24UnbGc)IMG_20190412_210103446 (https://flic.kr/p/24UnbGc) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7899/47543446532_0ef9d06a9d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAgo)IMG_20190412_210110815 (https://flic.kr/p/2frfAgo) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/7897/40630353643_f43dc154f4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24UnbAF)IMG_20190412_212346833 (https://flic.kr/p/24UnbAF) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I was going to mention something else about the hood latches, but it slipped my mind... Maybe I'll remember tomorrow?

Mirage775

16th April 2019, 20:59

Got my Powerstop Z26 Brake Kit yesterday, for my Sport calipers! Started install tonight and finished it this afternoon. Sliced my thumb open on the front stainless steel pad hardware... I would suggest nobody follow this step, as it wasn't pleasant...

Only took one pic, front drivers' side.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32683246077_55a05c9980_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RN7boH)IMG_20190415_191144855 (https://flic.kr/p/RN7boH) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Only a few more things to order this Friday and it'll hopefully be ready for a 500 miles break in! So looking forward to it! :jump:

Mirage775

17th April 2019, 21:12

Tonight, I finally figured out why my rear 949 end links weren't lining up with the control arm... I had the 12mm rear sway bar upside down :ohno: Anyway, got that buttoned up and did a few other small things.

Tomorrow, I'm going to adjust my clutch pedal, as I messed it up 2 years ago, when my slave cylinder went out and I honestly never readjusted it..

This weekend, I'm ordering a Racing Beat front sway bar brace (the one that goes from one side to the other), Goodwin Racing Tow Hooks, and four (4) Flyin' Miata Eccentric Locks for the FLCA's. Then, hopefully, on the weekend of the 27th, I can get her realigned and A/C back into the system and go for a test ride!

Debating on painting my Aero-Latches, Blue? What do yall think? :dunno:

Also, thinking about painting the Shelby Fuel Cap, Satin Black? What do yall think about that too? :dunno:

Warhammer

17th April 2019, 21:39

Tonight, I finally figured out why my rear 949 end links weren't lining up with the control arm... I had the 12mm rear sway bar upside down :ohno: Anyway, got that buttoned up and did a few other small things.

Tomorrow, I'm going to adjust my clutch pedal, as I messed it up 2 years ago, when my slave cylinder went out and I honestly never readjusted it..

This weekend, I'm ordering a Racing Beat front sway bar brace (the one that goes from one side to the other), Goodwin Racing Tow Hooks, and four (4) Flyin' Miata Eccentric Locks for the FLCA's. Then, hopefully, on the weekend of the 27th, I can get her realigned and A/C back into the system and go for a test ride!

Debating on painting my Aero-Latches, Blue? What do yall think? :dunno:

Also, thinking about painting the Shelby Fuel Cap, Satin Black? What do yall think about that too? :dunno:

IMO, the Aerolatches should be left black. They will stand out anyway. Trying to color match them will just look like a bad attempt at making them less visible. I think they are a cool looking addition.

I like the idea of painting the gas cap. You could always paint it with Plastidip as a trail, then do a more permanent job if you like it.

Mirage775

17th April 2019, 21:53

I like the idea of painting the gas cap. You could always paint it with Plastidip as a trail, then do a more permanent job if you like it.

Yea, I was kinda iffy on the latches. But on the cap, there's just not too much polished/chrome on it, other than the muffler and emblems. I'm thinking a black cap would complete the Blue/Black theme better? I may do something to it this weekend, as I'm running out of things to do it, LOL!

Another thing I was thinking about painting black were the hood vents. I need to finish notching out the openings underneath the vents and was wondering if Black vents would look nicer?

Warhammer

17th April 2019, 22:26

Yea, I was kinda iffy on the latches. But on the cap, there's just not too much polished/chrome on it, other than the muffler and emblems. I'm thinking a black cap would complete the Blue/Black theme better? I may do something to it this weekend, as I'm running out of things to do it, LOL!

Another thing I was thinking about painting black were the hood vents. I need to finish notching out the openings underneath the vents and was wondering if Black vents would look nicer?

I think the hood vents would look better in black.

Mirage775

17th April 2019, 22:28

I think the hood vents would look better in black.

As do I! And it'll give me something to work on this weekend!

josolanes

19th April 2019, 11:02

Mirage775

19th April 2019, 16:58

Man I finally got through your build thread and there's no way you'd be able to recognize the car from the beginning to now. It's absolutely amazing how much you've done to it and I love all the detail put into the build!

Thanks Josh! :thumbs:

I went a little overboard in it and some people don't understand why I did some things, but that's why they're our personal cars, so we can personalize them to our liking :D I need to stick to my plan of supercharging it in a few years, but all these different engine swaps are still running through my head, haha!

I have a winter to-do list for it too, minimal performance mods, more engine bay bling, etc. One day, it'll need a professional paint job too. Same color theme, just better.

Mirage775

19th April 2019, 17:30

Just a little test fit of the wheel mounted on the new rotor/sport brakes. I ordered some low profile stainless steel banjo bolts from FM this morning. My 15's aren't touching the Sport brake banjo bolts, (there's about 1/2" space between the wheel and bolt), but the FM ones were only $7 bucks for 2 or them and it's just a precaution for my standards :)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47646103951_c06a6b7358_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fAjJJT)IMG_20190419_071919754 (https://flic.kr/p/2fAjJJT) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

diverdale

19th April 2019, 18:58

Mirage775

21st April 2019, 08:09

Did a little minor work to the Miata last night. I needed to make a cooling panel, as when I installed the Duraflex Front Bumper, it eliminated the use of the OEM one... So, I ordered a piece of 1/4" Solid Black Plastic Sheet off eBay. I mocked up a template using a piece of dish mat rubber, then transferred that to a piece of cardboard, then transferred to the Plastic Sheet. It came out quit well and pushed my bumper out a tad, which is what I was going for, since I no longer have a center OEM hood latch.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33777963038_bfc277fb84_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TsQTB5)IMG_20190420_183620037 (https://flic.kr/p/TsQTB5) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46739725385_2ae2b24026_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2edeiYe)IMG_20190420_190501329 (https://flic.kr/p/2edeiYe) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

The tek-screws are temporary. I also need to get a piece of rubber or angle aluminum or something, for when the hood closes and meets this area, just to sort of hide everything, if that makes sense? I also need to mock up something to fill in between the bumper and headlights? That's bothered me ever since I installed it...

Mirage775

21st April 2019, 08:15

I also decided my hood vents should be Black, to match the black Aero-Latches, LOL! So, after drilling out the old rivets, I decided I should cut out the rest of the hood metal, so the vents would look proper, from underneath the hood, and possibly function better? Here's the passengers side progress:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47655306921_c1fa411d84_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8UsM)IMG_20190420_192533267 (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8UsM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47655306601_ba02788f50_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8Ung)IMG_20190420_194702708 (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8Ung) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47655306131_399537a6b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8Uea)IMG_20190420_194800606 (https://flic.kr/p/2fB8Uea) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

And after I got both sides removed and cut out, I cleaned up all the sharp edges, with a tiny half circle file. I also removed my OBX Fuel Lid assembly and painted it Gloss Black, along with the hood vents! I hope it came out ok, after drying overnight :dunno:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46931424764_f4b6d41ae8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2evaPvW)IMG_20190420_203601874 (https://flic.kr/p/2evaPvW) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

21st April 2019, 21:01

All day today, I worked on that awful open area/gap between my headlights and Bomber bumper. I made some templates out of cardboard.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33786012608_807199cd7a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9sL)IMG_20190421_105724150 (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9sL) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696786873_3398057efc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eETc)IMG_20190421_105729750 (https://flic.kr/p/251eETc) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Then, I used the same 1/4" plastic sheet, (that I used for the cooling panel), and after some tweaking, they fit pretty nicely!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33786011948_dea9a486d6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9go)IMG_20190421_111655913 (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9go) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696786203_a9409916b6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eEFD)IMG_20190421_111703351 (https://flic.kr/p/251eEFD) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

After I got these finished, I decided to work on filling that eyesore gap. I painted some of the dish mat, (that I used for the cooling panel template), and screwed them to the underside of the new end pieces above.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33786010998_f8d861a5e6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Tty8Z1)IMG_20190421_154643079 (https://flic.kr/p/Tty8Z1) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696784553_a1b6b60847_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eEcc)IMG_20190421_155408286 (https://flic.kr/p/251eEcc) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

It doesn't look amazing, but it looks better than it did :rolleyes:

Mirage775

21st April 2019, 21:16

I've also been wanting to fill in the gap between the hood and bumper. This has been another challenge. I finally think I've got it taken care of. I bought a small piece of aluminum angle at Lowe's this morning. I cut out an angle in it, 3 times, to allow for making it bend. I sit it in the gap for a test fit. I think modified it a little bit and filed down the rough edges.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33786011578_2f63ce5236_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9a1)IMG_20190421_145645196 (https://flic.kr/p/Tty9a1) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46747630865_2508c6d651_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2edVPZB)IMG_20190421_145712419 (https://flic.kr/p/2edVPZB) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I painted it Black at first and riveted it to the cooling panel. The black looked awful! I was upset with how it turned out. It did fix the gap, but the color just didn't please me.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696784163_dcdb975d2b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eE5t)IMG_20190421_161638876 (https://flic.kr/p/251eE5t) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

So, I drilled out the rivets, resanded it and sprayed it the body color, Classic Ford Blue. It looked so much better, Blue! I decided to go another step further and mask off for the Black strips to flow over it.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696783633_89d5684e0d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eDVk)IMG_20190421_172438898 (https://flic.kr/p/251eDVk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I hand painted the Black, to fill the stripe gaps between the hood and bumper and it actually turned out nice! It'll need another coat, but it still looks great! I also used some of the Blue painted dish mat and installed it sort of above the headlights, to help fill in that gap more. It's hard to see in the pic below, but it's there!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40696782753_eb054e3514_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251eDEa)IMG_20190421_185730327 (https://flic.kr/p/251eDEa) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

About my fuel cap and hood vents. Vents turned out awful, so I just ordered 2 new ones, which should be here later this week. The fuel cap has given me a tough time too... The fuel cap base turned out great though, so I reinstalled it! The cap has been sanded so many times and it gets better with each coat, but even after this last coat, it'll need another sanding tomorrow, then, another coat of Black paint. I'm doing something different to it, so, I dunno how it's going to look, when it's finished?

More to come!

Mirage775

21st April 2019, 23:59

Even with everything I've done, the fitment of that bumper looks awful... Before I bought it, I was looking for an NB2 bumper with the large tupperware piece. With all the trouble this one has giving me, I would've been better just buying the NB2 stuff...

Tomorrow after work, I'm going to see if I can get the bumper to sit closer to the hood? Ever since I installed those Aero-Latches and did away with the stock center hood latch, the hood/bumper look worse than they did a year ago...

diverdale

22nd April 2019, 09:58

Even with everything I've done, the fitment of that bumper looks awful... Before I bought it, I was looking for an NB2 bumper with the large tupperware piece. With all the trouble this one has giving me, I would've been better just buying the NB2 stuff...

Tomorrow after work, I'm going to see if I can get the bumper to sit closer to the hood? Ever since I installed those Aero-Latches and did away with the stock center hood latch, the hood/bumper look worse than they did a year ago...

you'll get it figured out. definitely splitting hairs here man ... lol car looks amazing.

Mirage775

22nd April 2019, 18:06

you'll get it figured out. definitely splitting hairs here man ... lol car looks amazing.

Thanks Dale! I'm going to leave the Aero-Latches installed, but also reinstall the OEM hood latch, (assuming I can do that????), as the center of the hood just isn't pulling down, like it needs to be. If I can't use both latches, I'll remove the Aero-Latch pins and just use the OEM latch only.

It's the damn aftermarket bumpers' fault! Completely poorly fabricated.... I had to do all sorts of unconventional crap to get it installed. I wish I'd gone for an NB2 bumper/MSM lip.

I'm also returning the trunk strut, as it's not strong enough to raise my trunk lid with the Monster Spoiler installed and it doesn't raise up anything as high as it did without it, so back it goes! Going to order a new fuel filler hose, while everything disassembled back there!

Warhammer

22nd April 2019, 23:17

Thanks Dale! I'm going to leave the Aero-Latches installed, but also reinstall the OEM hood latch, (assuming I can do that????), as the center of the hood just isn't pulling down, like it needs to be. If I can't use both latches, I'll remove the Aero-Latch pins and just use the OEM latch only.

It's the damn aftermarket bumpers' fault! Completely poorly fabricated.... I had to do all sorts of unconventional crap to get it installed. I wish I'd gone for an NB2 bumper/MSM lip.

I'm also returning the trunk strut, as it's not strong enough to raise my trunk lid with the Monster Spoiler installed and it doesn't raise up anything as high as it did without it, so back it goes! Going to order a new fuel filler hose, while everything disassembled back there!

Which brand of trunk strut did you buy? I got the Clark & Clark kit, then added their right side strut kit when I mounted my spoiler. With a gas strut on each side, the trunk lid operates perfectly, even with a great big spoiler bolted on.

https://clarkandclarkinc.com/catalog/detail/trunk-lift-kit

Mirage775

23rd April 2019, 05:54

Which brand of trunk strut did you buy? I got the Clark & Clark kit, then added their right side strut kit when I mounted my spoiler. With a gas strut on each side, the trunk lid operates perfectly, even with a great big spoiler bolted on.

https://clarkandclarkinc.com/catalog/detail/trunk-lift-kit

That's the one I bought. I thought it would raise up higher, just like the hood struts do, but the height is what's killing me, as I'm 6'5" and it's not very high, even on jackstands, with the trunk strut installed...

Warhammer

23rd April 2019, 16:49

That's the one I bought. I thought it would raise up higher, just like the hood struts do, but the height is what's killing me, as I'm 6'5" and it's not very high, even on jackstands, with the trunk strut installed...

I agree. While I like the function of the struts, I don't like how much they limit the trunk lid from opening all the way.

Mirage775

23rd April 2019, 18:00

I agree. While I like the function of the struts, I don't like how much they limit the trunk lid from opening all the way.

I just got finished removing it and reinstalling the tension spring thingy and knew the strut limited the height, but forgot how much, LOL! The trunk is higher than the top in the "up" position! Much better for my liking. It was a neat concept, but not for me. Anyway, this will give me a chance to order an OEM Fuel Filler to Tank hose, so those delicious interior fuel smells might go away afterwards, LOL!

Mirage775

23rd April 2019, 19:44

OK, the hood/bumper gap has been bothering me since Saturday.:sad: So, I ordered a used hood latch and release cable today. I adjusted the aero-latch pins down a little more, which helped with the bumper gap, but misaligned the hood with the fenders....:mad:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46766083355_13479dc474_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2efypgZ)IMG_20190423_164948579 (https://flic.kr/p/2efypgZ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

So, I removed the old u-channel and flat aluminum pieces, that I originally had mounted, last year, from to the radiator support and the other end pushed the bumper out a little. This worked fine with the OEM latch. So, I modified my newly built cooling panel and mounted it deeper/straight to the radiator support. I'll have to modify it a little more, once I get the OEM latch, which shouldn't be a problem?
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32739040307_360ac108c0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RT395c)IMG_20190423_165122178 (https://flic.kr/p/RT395c) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I also did this to my OBX Fuel Lid, please tell me if it looks ok or should I spray it all black?
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46766082365_c0a0360913_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2efyoYV)IMG_20190423_174944138 (https://flic.kr/p/2efyoYV) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I have an idea for the headlight/bumper gaps, that I'll tackle this weekend. I think it'll fix the eyesore I've been dealing with for over a year. Just can't believe I didn't think of it sooner... :dunno:

diverdale

24th April 2019, 17:04

Mirage775

24th April 2019, 17:05

I kinda like the polished stripe. Once I get mine all roadworthy and whatnot, I gotta get me one of those fuel lids.

Well, I painted it earlier and it messed up :bang:

Mirage775

27th April 2019, 09:46

Mirage775

27th April 2019, 09:57

Yesterday, I adjusted the parking brakes and threw the wheels back on and sat her back on the ground! Finished painting the fuel cap and reinstalled it. Got a few more things to do today, before taking it to get aligned and recharge the AC tomorrow morning. :jump:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46796164725_a2bff4c60e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eidzqi)IMG_20190426_160657285 (https://flic.kr/p/2eidzqi) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33835123668_5c5ae5cf76_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TxTRtb)IMG_20190426_162154970 (https://flic.kr/p/TxTRtb) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Lucmor444

27th April 2019, 21:18

Mirage775

28th April 2019, 08:44

Fuel lid came out really nice.

Thanks!

Mirage775

28th April 2019, 08:45

We took the Miata out for it's maiden voyage, from being put on jack stands in October 2018. It drove amazingly well, considering I replaced everything in the car, over the last 6 months!

Drove a whopping 37 miles. Trying to brake-in the lightweight flywheel/clutch. Didn't think I would get the flywheel chatter, but it started about 20 miles into the ride. I didn't think you were supposed to slip the clutch, during a break-in? But it seems like it's doing that on its' on, when I'm backing/pulling out of my driveway? I hope that's not going to hurt it/burn the clutch/flywheel? On the road, though, everything's great! It shifts quick and great and I hear no noise anywhere, other than the flywheel chatter, when stopped?

The brakes were almost non-existent too... You had to push them all the way to the floor, to stop, period or pump them several times, but still it wasn't fun.

Got home and put it back on jackstands and bled the system again. Still had a good bit of air in the right rear and some in the left front. I thought we got all the air/old black fluid, out the other night, but still had both air and dirty fluid in part of the system. Now, all the lines have clean fluid and appear to have no air

About to take it for an FM alignment, install FLCA eccentric locks and get the A/C charged! Next weekend, I may go on a little further ride, to check everything out. But so far, the SADfab sleeves/ES control arm bushing, ES diff bushings and Mazda Competition engine mounts are well worth the money/install!

Mirage775

28th April 2019, 20:14

Well, today has been a very busy day for myself and the Miata. First, I had an appointment at Firestone at 9am to get an alignment and AC charge. One guy, who wasn't the manager, started bitching about the car wouldn't make it up the rack ramps, without ripping everything off... I said I have wood ramps that I just built yesterday to overcome this. The manager said what if the wood breaks? I said, "Are you serious??? It's brand new man!" They still wouldn't do it, but at least I got my AC recharged, for free, since they charged me $70 last October to do an evac on it... :realmad:

So, about 9:30-10, one of my local Pepboys said they would align it. They had some sketchy wood pieces and didn't want to use mine, but they got on the rack without a problem. It took about 3 hours, as the alignment tech had never done a custom alignment. I used FM's alignment numbers and their eccentric locks. :thumbs:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47727508471_7ac3fb0988_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXt6)IMG_20190428_105242229 (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXt6) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46810918305_5a67a53fda_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ejwc9n)IMG_20190428_122008929 (https://flic.kr/p/2ejwc9n) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47727507541_5b000d9bf0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXc4)IMG_20190428_121947134 (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXc4) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

That's as close to the FM specs as he could get.

FM Suggests

Front
Caster: 5.0 degrees
Camber: 1.0 degrees negative
Toe-in: 1/16", 0.15° or 9 arcminutes total (1/32", 0.075° or 4.5 minutes per side)

Rear
Camber: 1.5 degrees negative
Toe-in: 1/16", 0.15° or 9 arcminutes total (1/32", 0.075° or 4.5 minutes per side)

Also, the 2nd brake bleeding fixed my spongy brakes, from last night! :)

While it was on the rack, he noticed something odd at the pass side axle and called me out to look at it.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47727508021_002108b7b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXkk)IMG_20190428_105435694 (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvXkk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Yes, odd indeed... I tried to slide it back in before he took it off the rack, with no luck... I've been trying to take it easy on the new clutch/flywheel and cruised home, about 5 miles away. Got home and had to go to my dads house and run a few errands, but as soon as I got back home, I started working in the Miata.

Raised up the rear end and noticed that diff fluid was everywhere, all over the rear and under the car! I cleaned all that up and started removing parts. Everyone kept telling me, that it just needed a few whacks, with an extremely large hammer and it would go on. This didn't work and after a few hours of trying to figure out WTH was wrong with it, I finally found the culprit.... :(
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47727505681_6c2c242b8b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvWCZ)IMG_20190428_183717270 (https://flic.kr/p/2fHvWCZ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

The splines don't line up... :confused:

That's why it felt like I had an open diff yesterday, during my test drive, going up a mountain...

This axle was from my wrecked '05 with 42K miles on it. I was just planning on using the parts, because of the low mileage. I thought maybe it wasn't working, due to the fact the '05 was an automatic, with ABS and an open diff, but Tom at The Parts Group told me they should all work?

Anyway, part of the money I was saving to use on my new concrete driveway, will now pay for a new (used) axle, Sport brake upright/knuckle, and Hub from The Parts Group tomorrow morning.

I have a few things I can do to it this week, while I wait on the axle and stuff.

I thought I was done throwing money on it, but I guess not, LOL! :bang: Although, from my driving impressions last night, I'm not sure I want a supercharger :dunno:

diverdale

29th April 2019, 21:15

Warhammer

29th April 2019, 21:33

Well, today has been a very busy day for myself and the Miata. First, I had an appointment at Firestone at 9am to get an alignment and AC charge. One guy, who wasn't the manager, started bitching about the car wouldn't make it up the rack ramps, without ripping everything off... I said I have wood ramps that I just built yesterday to overcome this. The manager said what if the wood breaks? I said, "Are you serious??? It's brand new man!" They still wouldn't do it, but at least I got my AC recharged, for free, since they charged me $70 last October to do an evac on it... :realmad:

Firestone is the Supercuts of the automotive world. It's where you work when you have no experience (or skills) until you have enough experience to get a real automotive job (or prove that you don't have skills and stay there). I almost managed one of their stores once, but they couldn't get their act together and I told them I wouldn't work for a company that can't even interview and hire like they've done it at least twice before. They kept calling me back and I finally had to get kinda mean to get them to understand I didn't want the job. Their mechanics seem to look for any excuse NOT to work on your car and just get you to go away. Just about any other shop is a better option than going to Firestone.

diverdale

29th April 2019, 22:09

Firestone is the Supercuts of the automotive world. It's where you work when you have no experience (or skills) until you have enough experience to get a real automotive job (or prove that you don't have skills and stay there). I almost managed one of their stores once, but they couldn't get their act together and I told them I wouldn't work for a company that can't even interview and hire like they've done it at least twice before. They kept calling me back and I finally had to get kinda mean to get them to understand I didn't want the job. Their mechanics seem to look for any excuse NOT to work on your car and just get you to go away. Just about any other shop is a better option than going to Firestone.

I do a fair bit of offroading and run with a Toyota Tacoma group here. A lot of folks get the lifetime alignment deal and our local Firestone actually does a pretty good job of getting custom numbers. I personally don't care for that shop and deal with a locally owned one for the stuff that I can't do in my shop. I typically don't patronize big chains unless there's no other option.

Mirage775

29th April 2019, 22:34

good enough without FI?

Unsure at this point in time. I'm going to do the proper clutch break-in and then do a few hard pulls and whatnot and see if I like it, after that, if that makes sense? :confused:

diverdale

29th April 2019, 22:37

Unsure at this point in time. I'm going to do the proper clutch break-in and then do a few hard pulls and whatnot and see if I like it, after that, if that makes sense? :confused:

Makes total sense...gotta be able to do a "full pull" to see what she's got.

Mirage775

29th April 2019, 22:44

Firestone is the Supercuts of the automotive world. It's where you work when you have no experience (or skills) until you have enough experience to get a real automotive job (or prove that you don't have skills and stay there). I almost managed one of their stores once, but they couldn't get their act together and I told them I wouldn't work for a company that can't even interview and hire like they've done it at least twice before. They kept calling me back and I finally had to get kinda mean to get them to understand I didn't want the job. Their mechanics seem to look for any excuse NOT to work on your car and just get you to go away. Just about any other shop is a better option than going to Firestone.

Agreed. I only choose them, cause I have a CC with them and they offer a lifetime alignment, as long as you own the vehicle. But, yesterday, when that dickhead didn't want to do it, because it was too "low" and complained more than a child about it, that pretty much did it in for me.

Today, Bridgestone emailed me a survey. I'm debating on filling it out, but kinda have a feeling it won't be taken seriously, if even read...?

Mirage775

29th April 2019, 22:46

I do a fair bit of offroading and run with a Toyota Tacoma group here. A lot of folks get the lifetime alignment deal and our local Firestone actually does a pretty good job of getting custom numbers. I personally don't care for that shop and deal with a locally owned one for the stuff that I can't do in my shop. I typically don't patronize big chains unless there's no other option.

I got their lifetime deal on my Ranger FX4, because at the time, I was planning on off-roading it and figured a free alignment a few times a year was worth it? But, I haven't used it since I got the damn deal almost 3 years ago, LOL!

Mirage775

1st May 2019, 07:08

So, I got the axle "fixed" at a local axle & hub shop, but he also knocked it out of the hub for me for $40 cash. I had to have the old axle removed anyway. Upon for research, I decided not to use the "fixed" axle, as I've put a lot of money into this car and if that tip broke off in the diff and locked it up, definitely the car, (and possibly my wife and I) would not survive...

The next paragraph is why I don't like some people.

A co-worker yesterday asked me if got my car fixed. I said no, I ordered a low mileage axle from The Parts Group for about $93 shipped. He said I "pussed" out and he didn't know why I even paid for the other one to be fixed. In my eyes, I paid for the axle to be removed, not be "fixed".... I informed him, that I have a good bit of money invested into MY car and the fact it was MY car and MY money repairing it and if the other axle happened to randomly break in my diff, at 50+ MPH, it would destroy the complete drivetrain and possibly our lives! By the way, he knows nothing about anything automotive wise... He then replied, well, you don't have to be an ******* about it, I just don't understand why you spent the $40 on the other axle?!

I honestly don't understand people at times yall...?

So, anyway, a good OEM axle will be here by the weekend and I'll probably have to get the right rear checked again, at the alignment shop and top off the diff with more gear oil, as I lost a little bit... Maybe take it for a Sunday drive and see how everything is, after the axle will be fully seated into the diff this time?

Got an OEM hood latch to reinstall as well, so I'll be able to tell if that helps pull down the hood, with my effed up aftermarket bumper, this weekend? Also, got some engineered aluminum soft top latch release buttons:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46831816055_0962e4ece4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2emnijp)R1 (https://flic.kr/p/2emnijp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

From this fella: https://blenddoor.com/product/miata_latch/

Maybe it'll be good to go for the MATG in a few months?

Warhammer

1st May 2019, 07:37

... Also, got some engineered aluminum soft top latch release buttons:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46831816055_0962e4ece4_c.jpg

From this fella: https://blenddoor.com/product/miata_latch/

Maybe it'll be good to go for the MATG in a few months?

I replaced my latches with brand new units last year. I'm happy with how they work, but every time I see someone mention these release buttons, I want to drop an unnecessary $65 just to get the red anodized buttons.

Mirage775

2nd May 2019, 21:41

Got my hood latch installed, with my modified cooling panel, (no pics), adjusted hood and I'm still able to use my Aero-latches with OEM hood latch too!

Also, got my low mileage axle in, from Tom @ The Parts Group and got it installed tonight, as well as, everything else in front of it and topped off my diff. I'll have to get the right rear realigned this weekend, maybe they won't charge me $100 again...?

Also, installed the new soft top release latches too and they work nicer than stock!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32817455137_8e519fd3c5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RZY352)IMG_20190502_191751946 (https://flic.kr/p/RZY352) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46844571815_8b1ae32eb4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2enuFai)IMG_20190502_192410729 (https://flic.kr/p/2enuFai) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

flaneur

5th May 2019, 06:25

He then replied, well, you don't have to be an ******* about it, I just don't understand why you spent the $40 on the other axle?!
It is fair to say that people say that are the ones being an arse. If I respond to such at all, I usually say, "projection, you are doing it". Which of course makes them even less interesting to talk to but the conversation was already over by then.

Do you think that the first person to think out loud that red anodized aluminum bits were sexy realized they were really onto something?

Mirage775

5th May 2019, 08:29

It is fair to say that people say that are the ones being an arse. If I respond to such at all, I usually say, "projection, you are doing it". Which of course makes them even less interesting to talk to but the conversation was already over by then.

Do you think that the first person to think out loud that red anodized aluminum bits were sexy realized they were really onto something?

Yea, he's one of our short tempered coworkers and doesn't really understand mechanical things. You and I are both in southern states, and most of my coworkers don't understand why I like the automotive world more than killing animals... I know I shouldn't reply to such comments, but I always seem to fuel the fire, so to speak, LOL! If I had said, "Projection, you're doing it...", he would have no clue what I was talking about, nor would the majority of the rest of them, LOL!

Honestly, no, I would not have ever thought red anodized bits here and there would look as delicious as they do :) Speaking of the red anodized bits, same guy questioned my decision on my 949 red anodized lug nuts...

I'll never quite understand why some people always have to voice they're opinion on matters they're not even involved in/with? :dunno:

Mirage775

5th May 2019, 08:44

Update on alignment. I'm taking it to Mazda tomorrow afternoon, as they've done a few FM alignments and I trust them more than the local shops near my house. I should've took it there to begin with.

I called Pepboys back, Friday, and told them I was there less than a week ago and had the axle problem. I asked to speak to the store manager, but the wannabe manager wouldn't let me. He said he asked the store manager about me coming back to align just that right rear wheel. The wannabe manager said they would check to see if it needed aligning and if it needed adjusting, it would be $200+ just to adjust the rear.

WTF???

I called Mazda and talked to a guy I know there, he said they've gotten several Pepboys alignments that were awful. He said they would do the whole car for $90, FM specs and eccentric locks...

So, I called Pepboys back and actually talked with the store manager this time. I told him what the his employee said and he said that's not what he said, not entirely... He said he gave me a "deal" last Sunday, as they usually don't install customers parts or do custom alignments. He said their normal fee was $90, but gave me a "deal" anyway. Said if I brought it back and it definitely was out of alignment, it would cost $100-$200, depending on if the front needed realigning too... I said if yall don't do customer alignments and parts, then why did you agree to do it and also knowing fully that the axle being pushed out 2-3", would definitely make the first alignment wrong? So, why did you even do the initial alignment, knowing all of this? He didn't say anything, so I'll not be going back there anymore.

Enough venting, I just wanted to give yall an update :jump:

Mirage775

6th May 2019, 19:38

Got another alignment at Hiley Mazda earlier. From just replacing that bad axle, with a good one, it messed with the right rear alignment by .75*!!! He also said Pepboys messed up the rest of the alignment, that was supposed to be FM's recommended specs...
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47003283574_476f1c8e8f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eBw7CW)IMG_20190506_192108829 (https://flic.kr/p/2eBw7CW) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Also, on the way home from Mazda, I got a blinking CEL and pulled over to read the codes.

P0171 System Too Lean Bank 1
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46876030235_805cb2de22_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eqgUDR)IMG_20190506_170500225_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2eqgUDR) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47003260904_d07244e43b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eBvZU5)IMG_20190506_170507302_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2eBvZU5) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

The car was running amazingly well before and after these codes appeared...? I cleared them and drove another 5-7 miles home. It continued running terrific, but I think it made a small backfire 1-2 miles before I got home? Any ideas what would've tripped these two codes?

Gas has been sitting in tank for the last 6-7 months, without being started. A friend of mine at Mazda said when I re-energized the PCM, it went back to a base map for fuel and timing and will adjust itself as I drive it, like the PCM's trying to to self tune to factory parts? Since I don't have an aftermarket PCM, I assume he's correct?

Thanks!

Mirage775

13th May 2019, 20:45

Not too much to post, other than the slight rear bumper cut I made a few days ago. The angles don't line up well though... Not pictured, but I attempted to to make the drivers side angle a little more sharper earlier today. I didn't mess it up, but I don't think it's any better, LOL! I honestly don't care anymore. It looks better than stock, since there's not much of anything left on it, that's stock now :D
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40877225263_a4fce400e7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25hbsVV)IMG_20190512_075423528kk (https://flic.kr/p/25hbsVV) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

I have to get my exhaust tips adjusted next, as the drivers side hangs much lower than the passengers side.

I removed the shims in the steering column and freed up about 1/4" between my legs and the bottom of the steering wheel. I honestly haven't done a lot to it.

I have about 82 miles on the break-in. This weekend, I should make it to the 500 miles mark.

barmato

13th May 2019, 22:25

Got my hood latch installed, with my modified cooling panel, (no pics), adjusted hood and I'm still able to use my Aero-latches with OEM hood latch too!

Also, got my low mileage axle in, from Tom @ The Parts Group and got it installed tonight, as well as, everything else in front of it and topped off my diff. I'll have to get the right rear realigned this weekend, maybe they won't charge me $100 again...?

Also, installed the new soft top release latches too and they work nicer than stock!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32817455137_8e519fd3c5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RZY352)IMG_20190502_191751946 (https://flic.kr/p/RZY352) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46844571815_8b1ae32eb4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2enuFai)IMG_20190502_192410729 (https://flic.kr/p/2enuFai) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on FlickrWhere did you get those top release latches from? Are those a fix for latches that dont want to stay closed anymore?

Mirage775

13th May 2019, 22:57

Where did you get those top release latches from? Are those a fix for latches that dont want to stay closed anymore?

Yep, they keep the latches/handles from rattling. https://blenddoor.com/product/miata_latch/

Mirage775

24th May 2019, 22:13

Well, break-in is over! I believe there are 562 miles on her, as of last Sunday! We went riding all weekend. Before last weekends rides, there was about 90 miles of city driving on her. About 264+/- miles Saturday, which consisted of driving along the West side of Georgia and back into Alabama, then home to Huntsville and and 208 Miles Sunday to a Vintage/Historic Race at Barber Motorsports, in Birmingham, Alabama and back home!

Had a couple CEL's over the weekend, although it was running superbly at highway speeds! Every 80-100 miles, the CEL would start blinking. I couldn't do anything, as I was nowhere near our house, so I would reset it and keep driving... Immediately after resetting the CEL, sometimes at a stop light/sign, it would die or idle rough... :dunno:

Here's the only pic I took on Saturdays' ride. I'm the 2nd car, behind the Black NC Club!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926734663_2e0b718378_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g283tr)IMG_20190518_113753528_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g283tr) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

The ride Sunday was ok I guess, the fun part was where we parked at and what I did after the race! Here's a few pics of Sunday!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926747796_03df315fe6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g287nS)IMG_20190519_094908614_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g287nS) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926747218_c653570084_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g287cU)IMG_20190519_105519720_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g287cU) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926752267_a33e0d8db9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g288GX)IMG_20190519_104710489 (https://flic.kr/p/2g288GX) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926755077_079e8c9d00_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g289xp)IMG_20190519_105414728_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g289xp) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926762711_bbfc4afb59_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28bP2)IMG_20190519_110544364_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g28bP2) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926768671_ac53a1e95a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28dzM)IMG_20190519_113212715_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2g28dzM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926771726_5281d64e42_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28eus)60352457_10157250175423582_278832742465431 1424_o (https://flic.kr/p/2g28eus) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926775887_e19e206bc9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28fJc)60645207_10157235823455917_639592529844921 9584_o (https://flic.kr/p/2g28fJc) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

24th May 2019, 22:19

At the end of the races, about 3pm, they had something called "parade" laps. It was supposed to be like 2 laps around the track, in your personal car, doing no more than 30-40mph.... It was $10 to do it, so I figured what the hell! :jump: Before we got on the track, one of the "rules" was much to my liking, keep up with the car in front of you! The others were no passing, no sling shooting around cars and don't slow down on the straightaways! At one point, I looked at the speedometer and was doing 80! I know, that's no big deal, woohoo 80mph...., everybody does that on the interstate...., but this wasn't on a damn interstate, it was on an awesome race track and as much as I pushed the little Miata in the turns, the rear end never broke loose! Here's a pic and video of me on the track!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926782228_59ba5fbed7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28hBw)snapshot (https://flic.kr/p/2g28hBw) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926780502_15b206cbee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6L)snapshot2 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6L) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926784956_2cec3e413e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28iqy)snapshot3 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28iqy) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926780487_da632f3f50_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6v)snapshot4 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6v) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926780477_5f87f87c2c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6k)snapshot5 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28h6k) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC-QR2JQDJY&t=596s

Mirage775

24th May 2019, 23:33

So, starting last Monday, the day after my wife and I was extremely sunburned..., I decided to take a few things off the engine, to attempt to find out what was making the misfire CEL come on. A few people told me it was the Toyota COP's or maybe an intake vacuum leak. I decided to go back to OEM NB1 coil packs, RB Ultra wires, new NGK-R plugs, and Mahle upper plenum and valve cover gaskets. I decided while everything was off the engine, I'd put my new IAC on the throttle body and port match my intake plenum to the Skunk2 throttle body! I also decided to put my main wire harness back between the intake and valve cover, even though it doesn't look great, when it was under the intake, too many connectors were stretched...

These are my old plugs, 1 starting on left side, that might have 1000 miles on them. They're less than a year old. They look like they got super hot, hence the reason I decided to take off the Toyota COP's, as they're mostly recommended for FI cars anyway.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926298_bc67fb11a5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292ru)IMG_20190520_170304869 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292ru) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Pulled everything off, that I thought might need attention.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926927241_73fab3ee38_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292HK)IMG_20190524_163936489 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292HK) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

This is the S2 TB against the stock intake plenum.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926073_6dbee72c69_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292nB)IMG_20190524_144431845 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292nB) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Outer white line is how much I need to remove.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926925888_724e983c1a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292jq)IMG_20190524_150030438 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292jq) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Full circle made with a nice, sharp alloy eating die grinding bit!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926927836_8693ea2264_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292U1)IMG_20190524_150745731 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292U1) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

After 30-40 minutes of using various grits of sandpaper on with the P&P kit. It's smooth and looks polished, but I may do a little better job in the Winter months?
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926922502_d2fbe5e4fb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g291j3)IMG_20190524_153822941 (https://flic.kr/p/2g291j3) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Hard to tell from the pics, but the TB is reinstalled on the plenum and it's very smooth in there now! Hard to get a really good pic... Also, the bottom of the IAC valve was just barely touching the bracket, that secures the upper plenum to the lower. I thought this may have been making a small vacuum leak, so I ground off some metal before reinstalling it and the IAC no longer touches that bracket!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926922267_95298dab76_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g291eZ)IMG_20190524_161042259 (https://flic.kr/p/2g291eZ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

New Mahle gaskets.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926921827_4394eabb6e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g2917p)IMG_20190524_172826193 (https://flic.kr/p/2g2917p) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Engine back together and actually running in pic! Racing Beat Red 8mm ULTRA plug wires installed.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926921127_3a9f5e6e33_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28ZUk)IMG_20190524_200822065 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28ZUk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Currently in "hover" mode I decided to take a better pic of the lights near dark.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926026_d44eb45bc4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292mN)IMG_20190524_201324479 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292mN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Jbuent

27th May 2019, 12:51

ambystom01

27th May 2019, 20:06

diverdale

30th May 2019, 18:33

So, starting last Monday, the day after my wife and I was extremely sunburned..., I decided to take a few things off the engine, to attempt to find out what was making the misfire CEL come on. A few people told me it was the Toyota COP's or maybe an intake vacuum leak. I decided to go back to OEM NB1 coil packs, RB Ultra wires, new NGK-R plugs, and Mahle upper plenum and valve cover gaskets. I decided while everything was off the engine, I'd put my new IAC on the throttle body and port match my intake plenum to the Skunk2 throttle body! I also decided to put my main wire harness back between the intake and valve cover, even though it doesn't look great, when it was under the intake, too many connectors were stretched...

These are my old plugs, 1 starting on left side, that might have 1000 miles on them. They're less than a year old. They look like they got super hot, hence the reason I decided to take off the Toyota COP's, as they're mostly recommended for FI cars anyway.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926298_bc67fb11a5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292ru)IMG_20190520_170304869 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292ru) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Pulled everything off, that I thought might need attention.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926927241_73fab3ee38_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292HK)IMG_20190524_163936489 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292HK) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

This is the S2 TB against the stock intake plenum.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926073_6dbee72c69_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292nB)IMG_20190524_144431845 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292nB) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Engine back together and actually running in pic! Racing Beat Red 8mm ULTRA plug wires installed.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926921127_3a9f5e6e33_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g28ZUk)IMG_20190524_200822065 (https://flic.kr/p/2g28ZUk) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Currently in "hover" mode I decided to take a better pic of the lights near dark.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47926926026_d44eb45bc4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2g292mN)IMG_20190524_201324479 (https://flic.kr/p/2g292mN) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

you just can't hide money :thumbs:

Mirage775

30th May 2019, 18:45

you just can't hide money :thumbs:

If I had as much money as everyone thought, it wouldn't still have a 4cyl in it. ;)

diverdale

31st May 2019, 16:20

If I had as much money as everyone thought, it wouldn't still have a 4cyl in it. ;)

Very good point ... lol.

Warhammer

31st May 2019, 23:38

If I had as much money as everyone thought, it wouldn't still have a 4cyl in it. ;)

I feel that! :rofl::rofl::rofl:

ElmerFud

3rd June 2019, 09:58

Mirage775

3rd June 2019, 10:08

Hey Mirage775, any chance you'll make the trip to Miata's 30 yr. anniversary at Moss Motors in Petersburg, VA? Sure like to see your car up close and the amazing transformation it's gone through!

Unfortunately not. Planning on coming up for MATG on Friday or Saturday this year though.

Mirage775

3rd June 2019, 11:56

Sure like to see your car up close and the amazing transformation it's gone through!

Forgot to add this to my last reply, but paint isn't as nice in person, as it is in the pics and the vinyl stripes could be better, but mechanically, the car's in excellent condition now!

I would love to do a Rocketeer Jaguar V6 swap, but $10k is a touch much...

Mattelmore

12th June 2019, 21:37

I live in Huntsville five minutes from Jason. He was kind enough to invite me over this afternoon to look at the suspension on my Miata. While I was there, I of course was eager to look at his ride.

Let me tell you guys, it was a treat to see this car in person. You can really tell the heart and soul that has been put into it, and I really enjoyed being able to "talk shop" with Jason for a few hours.

The pictures don't do it justice. This is a next level build.

Mirage775

12th June 2019, 22:54

I live in Huntsville five minutes from Jason. He was kind enough to invite me over this afternoon to look at the suspension on my Miata. While I was there, I of course was eager to look at his ride.

Let me tell you guys, it was a treat to see this car in person. You can really tell the heart and soul that has been put into it, and I really enjoyed being able to "talk shop" with Jason for a few hours.

The pictures don't do it justice. This is a next level build.

Thanks for the kind words, Matt! :thumbs: I still see flaws, but that's just how I am.

I finally took it off the jackstands and started it, after almost a month of not moving and it fired right up! I was very pleased with it! Still planning on doing a few more things with it, over the next couple of years, but house projects are happening now...

flaneur

13th June 2019, 03:15

Mirage775

13th June 2019, 06:40

Yes, it is a lot. Since I had Rocketworks Sports Cars source and prep my engine, the hit is pretty close to $12k. Just typing that is painful. I am confident that over time the smiles per mile will out weigh the pain.

Well, I can source and build the engine, but paying $8800 for the swap kit, is what I'm having trouble with, LOL! I still think $4700 for a Rotrex Supercharger, that give me 240whp is the best bang for buck. I just have to do it, under the wife radar, LOL!:rofl:

diverdale

14th June 2019, 10:03

Well, I can source and build the engine, but paying $8800 for the swap kit, is what I'm having trouble with, LOL! I still think $4700 for a Rotrex Supercharger, that give me 240whp is the best bang for buck. I just have to do it, under the wife radar, LOL!:rofl:

Tell her it's "safety equipment" like I did for the Wilwoods :D

Miataoutta

14th June 2019, 10:51

you just can't hide money :thumbs:

Babay got back.

Mirage775

14th June 2019, 12:16

Tell her it's "safety equipment" like I did for the Wilwoods :D

LOL! She knows that's a lie....

Mirage775

16th June 2019, 09:17

It's been about a month since I got the misfire codes. I put stock coil packs back on it, 8mm Racing Beat plug wires and 4 new NGK-R ZFR5F-11 plugs. Old ones were almost new, but looked like thet got super hot! I also changed the upper plenum intake gasket, as the old one was bent a little bit, but it shouldn't have mattered, being sandwiched between both plenums? I did a few other, little things, while I had everything apart.

Late afternoon/night, we took it for an almost 200 mile round trip. Engine light never came on one time! Only issue I had was after a gas fill up, upon attempting to start it, it acted like it was starving for fuel and I'm not sure why, as I put the '05 complete fuel pump assembly into it, last year? It finally started, but sputtered and popped several times, then finally cleared up and ran smooth. I've got about 750 miles on it, since the complete renovation and have only used premium fuel (91 or 93) since it's been put back on the ground.

We had another Miata with us and he said that when I really "got on it", he could smell a little raw fuel and occasionally a small backfire every now and then?

Also, everytime I turned the car off and then went to restart it, it would sputter, spit and pop for maybe 15-20 secs, then clear up and run fine.

We got almost 200 miles on half a tank. Would it be my fuel pump going bad? I would've thought the one off a 45k mile car would've been excellent? I ran some fuel injector cleaner through it yesterday as well, but it didn't seem to matter? I changed the fuel filter about a year ago, with an AC Delco one.

A fuel related problem is the only thing I can think of at this point in time? I doubt an MS is going to solve this issue, but I don't have the money for one currently anyway. Was thinking about buying one at the end of the year?

Any help would be appreciated?

Thanks

Mirage775

2nd July 2019, 17:26

I've heard my new fuel issue could be the FPR, the Pump itself or just a tank of bad gas?

I hope it was just bad gas, but I have a feeling it's something more expensive than gas...?

diverdale

2nd July 2019, 22:21

I've heard my new fuel issue could be the FPR, the Pump itself or just a tank of bad gas?

I hope it was just bad gas, but I have a feeling it's something more expensive than gas...?

the raw fuel smell tells me it's not bad gas....unfortunately

Mirage775

3rd July 2019, 06:44

the raw fuel smell tells me it's not bad gas....unfortunately

Yep, I was iffy on that. I've ran 2-4 tanks of premium in it since I put it back on the ground. I cannot smell any raw fuel though? And it's getting about 350-400 miles a tank. I don't think it's running on 3 cylinders, as it's got a excellent power and idles like there's nothing wrong.

I don't want to take it to a mechanic, but if I cannot figure it out soon, I guess I'll have too?

Warhammer

3rd July 2019, 08:37

Mirage775

3rd July 2019, 08:47

It sounds kind of like what my car was doing before the fuel pump failed. It began being a little harder to start than normal sometimes, but not every time. It would happen a few times, then clear up for a while. Finally, the fuel pump failed completely and my car stalled while pulling into a WalMart parking lot. I towed her to a mechanic, and they quoted me almost $900 to replace the fuel pump. Luckily, its only a $75 part on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Denso-950-0118-Fuel-Pump/dp/B000C5WFDS/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=miata+fuel+pump&qid=1562157290&s=gateway&sr=8-3). So she's parked in my garage waiting for my vacation in 2 weeks so I can dive in and replace the pump (along with about 4 or 5 other projects I've been wanting to get done).

I'm hoping that's what it is? I'm going to check the psi tomorrow, to rule out if it's the regulator or not?

I took the whole pump assembly out of the wrecked '05, since it had 45k miles on it, thinking it was the original, but noticed that stamped on top was, October 2016 and no sticker indicating it was a Mazda pump? My old assembly from my NB1 had a decal on it, that said BP4W. So, I'm wondering if someone cheaped out and bought a crappy pump, for the '05, three years ago and now it's starting to fail?

Warhammer

3rd July 2019, 10:57

Mirage775

3rd July 2019, 11:53

I think I'm going to upgrade to the Walbro 190lph pump. That's the one that most of the forced induction guys seem to like. My research shows no negatives when running it on an unmodified car. That way, I'm already good to go for adding bigger injectors and a turbo or SC (which I plan to do) in the future. It turns out that it costs the same as the slower Denso replacement pump and WAY less than the OEM Mazda part.

Where are you buying that pump at? I saw it at TDR for $110, I think? I agree, whenever I boost mine, I'll have that part taken care of!

Warhammer

3rd July 2019, 12:32

Where are you buying that pump at? I saw it at TDR for $110, I think? I agree, whenever I boost mine, I'll have that part taken care of!

Amazon:
- Walbro GSS250 fuel pump $70.23 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EDAJHC/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A26YLYFFSVKSNX)
- Walbro 400-1092 installation kit $31.43 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BT1BJPY/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A35BKNF7G8DU3K)
--Total $91.46 (Both have free shipping.)

So about $20 more than the stock flow rate Denso unit.

Edit: $99 with free shipping from Lightning Motorsports: http://www.lightningmotorsports.com/walbro-kits-/-hardware/walbro-fuel-pumps-with-installation-kits/f200001414001092/i-269929.aspx

Mirage775

3rd July 2019, 14:51

Amazon:
- Walbro GSS250 fuel pump $70.23 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EDAJHC/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A26YLYFFSVKSNX)
- Walbro 400-1092 installation kit $31.43 (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BT1BJPY/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A35BKNF7G8DU3K)
--Total $91.46 (Both have free shipping.)

So about $20 more than the stock flow rate Denso unit.

Edit: $99 with free shipping from Lightning Motorsports: http://www.lightningmotorsports.com/walbro-kits-/-hardware/walbro-fuel-pumps-with-installation-kits/f200001414001092/i-269929.aspx

Wondering if I should just skip the FPR tester and buy that pump? Never heard of Lightning Motorsports? Have you ever bought from them before, Rex?

Warhammer

4th July 2019, 00:20

Wondering if I should just skip the FPR tester and buy that pump? Never heard of Lightning Motorsports? Have you ever bought from them before, Rex?

I've never heard of them, either. I'll most likely just order from Amazon.

Mirage775

4th July 2019, 06:31

I've never heard of them, either. I'll most likely just order from Amazon.

LOL! Too late, I ordered yesterday afternoon. They actually already shipped it and sent the tracking number. Should be here Saturday! :eek:

I hope so, so that I can swap them out, go fill it up and see if that fixed the problem.

Have you changed yours out yet? I saw something online, that they're not plug and play? You have to splice your old wires and heat shrink tube them back on or something?

Warhammer

4th July 2019, 08:35

LOL! Too late, I ordered yesterday afternoon. They actually already shipped it and sent the tracking number. Should be here Saturday! :eek:

I hope so, so that I can swap them out, go fill it up and see if that fixed the problem.

Have you changed yours out yet? I saw something online, that they're not plug and play? You have to splice your old wires and heat shrink tube them back on or something?

I haven't done mine yet. I've read the same thing. They aren't p'n'p, but the process looks pretty easy.

flaneur

6th July 2019, 01:28

Mirage775

6th July 2019, 07:14

I agree. Funny, that word, smell. Bad/old gas has a powerful, awful smell. I cannot describe it. Go ahead, take a big whiff, it is only brain cells. :eek: Gas can go bad faster than you might think. And since no one (well, me) thinks about it much, it always seems to go bad faster still. With Ethanol, it goes even smellier and faster.

I ordered a 190 LPH Walbro Fuel Pump, which should be here today. What I don't understand is, I started it up last night and it fired right up, no spitting or sputtering. I fired it up 2 weeks ago and it did fine. I fired it up the day after we went riding almost 3 weeks ago and it fired right up and idled great.

The problem is, after I filled it up at the Circle K, then got into it to start it, it started spitting, sputtering and sounded like it was starving for fuel. On the way to the station, it started and ran fine, but after filling up, it idled awful.

That's my current problem. :dunno:

Here's a video of the day after our last 200 mile ride.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kX6Pa6rkF_M

flaneur

7th July 2019, 00:30

Mirage775

7th July 2019, 00:37

Intermittent behavior changes are really annoying. I feel your pain.
PS: If I have not commented about it before, your instrument pod thing looks marvelous.

I put the engine bay EVAP canister back on tonight, along with its' purge valve. Pulled the fuel pump assembly out and am waiting on FedEx to deliver the new 190LPH pump, which looks like it's going to be Monday... Gonna get it installed Monday afternoon, run to the station, fill it up and see what happens. I'm going to record it, regardless of the results, just in case it acts out? If it does, I'll post it on here and my other thread as well.

Thanks :D I'm almost certain you cannot get those gauge cluster rings anymore, but you can always ask Adam@Revlimiter?

Are you by any chance going to MATG in less than a month? I'm planning on going up, super early, Friday morning, Aug 2nd, but will be coming back the same day, so I won't have a lot of time to do much...

diverdale

8th July 2019, 18:50

I ordered a 190 LPH Walbro Fuel Pump, which should be here today. What I don't understand is, I started it up last night and it fired right up, no spitting or sputtering. I fired it up 2 weeks ago and it did fine. I fired it up the day after we went riding almost 3 weeks ago and it fired right up and idled great.

The problem is, after I filled it up at the Circle K, then got into it to start it, it started spitting, sputtering and sounded like it was starving for fuel. On the way to the station, it started and ran fine, but after filling up, it idled awful.

That's my current problem. :dunno:

Here's a video of the day after our last 200 mile ride.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kX6Pa6rkF_M

I had a 1973 MG Midget and the fuel pump was right below the "package tray" area in between the seats. The drill was turn the key on....listen for the pump to engage. If it didn't, pound that area with your fist a few times until it started pumping. I know it's not a miata thing but fuel pumps can get finicky. Eventually, the fist bump stopped working and I had to replace the pump.

Mirage775

8th July 2019, 22:53

It's been almost a month, since my fuel issue appeared, when filling up the Miata. Over the weekend, I removed the old stock fuel pump and re-installed the engine bay charcoal canister/sensor and EGR valve.

Tonight, I replaced the stock pump with a Walbro 190 LPH pump. I also blew an amount of something from the regulator line. At first, not even air would come out of the opposite end of the FPR line, then, all of a sudden, that mess blew out! Just an FYI, the new pump isn't as quiet as the old one, but the loudness doesn't bother me ;)

After installing the new pump, I rechecked my codes and it had a stored manufacturers code of a P1450. It's an EVAP code and there's several possibilities, but most common one on a Miata is, the Fuel Injection Pressure Sensor on top of the fuel tank. I went ahead and ordered a new one, since the tank cover is off anyway.

Went to a Mapco tonight and filled it up with 93 octane! I was worried, that it was going to spit and sputter after filling up, but engine starts up and runs/idles fine!

Did these minor repairs fix the problem? I certainly hope so!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48237036362_4590e713fd_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2guxqmJ)IMG_20190708_155018627 (https://flic.kr/p/2guxqmJ) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48236951406_ea00f8acaf_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2guwZ6Y)IMG_20190708_155030903 (https://flic.kr/p/2guwZ6Y) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyjkNq3bIhU

flaneur

13th July 2019, 06:06

Mirage775

13th July 2019, 06:29

Late reply, sorry. MATG, not this year.

LOL, no worries. I'm only going for a day anyway. I figured if I were looking for someone, it would be like a needle in a haystack....

Mirage775

20th July 2019, 22:52

If any of you checked out my Misfire thread, https://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=693938&page=2

So, since the P0300 Misfire came back last week, after almost 500 miles of being gone, or so I thought...

Today, I cleaned and re-gapped the crank position sensor to .015" I also replaced the cam position sensor. I also moved the IAT sensor, from the CAI box, back between the MAF and TB. I installed 4 new NGK BKR5E-11 plugs and gapped them .030", (previous plugs had about 500 miles on them and were ZFR5F-11's, gapped at .044"). I used dielectric grease on both end of my plug wires. Gonna go for a little ride tomorrow, 30-40 miles and see if the Misfire CEL comes back. If it does, I'm going to video the live data.

Mirage775

25th July 2019, 18:21

Well, I haven't driven it since last Sunday. But, I bought a new EGR tube and installed it this afternoon, with the help of my assistant! Hopefully, the EGR CEL will be gone now, as well as the Misfire CEL.

Leaving early Friday, Aug 2nd, to head to MATG! Maybe the CEL will stay off, so I can supercharge this little beast soon!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48375625096_3f6d263796_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHXE)IMG_20190725_161823391 (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHXE) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48375623516_6586c4a298_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHuq)IMG_20190725_162049364 (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHuq) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48375624321_91b33930ee_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHJi)IMG_20190725_161919335 (https://flic.kr/p/2gGMHJi) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Mirage775

15th August 2019, 20:32

Haven't posted in a while, for a reason, LOL! Nothing seems to be wrong with it, other than it doesn't have more power yet ;) I did have to remove my newly installed EGR tube, as it was touching my reroute coolant hose...

I went to MATG on August 2nd, almost 600 miles round trip and "knock-on wood", the 0300 CEL never came back on! I think the EGR CEL is on, but not a big deal.

Still thinking about doing a Rotrex supercharger, but have a question about buying a MSPNP2 now, while it's not boosted? Would it be better to do that before or after I go FI? Also, I bought a Lenovo Think Pad laptop. Would MS be able to work on it or would I have to buy another laptop?

GreaseMonkey2000

16th August 2019, 22:54

Mirage775

17th August 2019, 07:26

Definitely buy standalone ecu and learn to tune in n/a form. That lab top should be sufficient.

Cool, I'll look into it. There's definitely some things I'd like to get rid of like EGR and MAF. I'll look into doing that next year.

I know you can't use a Chromebook for MS, as I was about to buy one last year, when everyone told me not too.

Mirage775

17th August 2019, 22:02

GreaseMonkey2000

18th August 2019, 19:17

How is it much cheaper to convert? Aren't the swap parts the same? I presume the motor is just more readily available and thus cheaper, correct?

I have had more Honda's/Acura's than anything else and honestly think they're the n/a king of factory production motors. I definitely think the k swap is a great option for the Miata, still need a ride in one...bet it is a blast.

Mirage775

18th August 2019, 19:53

How is it much cheaper to convert? Aren't the swap parts the same? I presume the motor is just more readily available and thus cheaper, correct?

I have had more Honda's/Acura's than anything else and honestly think they're the n/a king of factory production motors. I definitely think the k swap is a great option for the Miata, still need a ride in one...bet it is a blast.

The engine's cheaper than the A2, like $350-$500 for the engine. The swap kit is cheaper than the A2, as it uses the stock Miata subframe. The Z3 doesn't have a header, that needed a custom subframe.

Read all about it here: https://kmiata.com/blogs/news/game-changer-the-new-k24z3-swap-is-here?fbclid=IwAR1u--6gwvlC_XyYr1OQOTQ_WGVEfJw7EtYlZg6FLJlvE1uUGBTVsVjy yCc

GreaseMonkey2000

18th August 2019, 21:07

Sweet! Thanks for the info Jason! :toast: Looks like I am falling behind in my "Miata Times" reading. :)

Edit: Just read thru the article, wow that is awesome! I actually think the integrated exhaust manifold is a plus in most respects.

Mirage775

19th August 2019, 00:11

Sweet! Thanks for the info Jason! :toast: Looks like I am falling behind in my "Miata Times" reading. :)

Edit: Just read thru the article, wow that is awesome! I actually think the integrated exhaust manifold is a plus in most respects.

Yep, no problem! They had the Z3 car at MATG. I thought I took a pic of it, but apparently, I was so overwhelmed, I didn't, LOL! Starting this winter, the NB is going to get a rather large makeover and full color change body wrap next year!

Tonight, I bought a complete NB2 front end conversion, hood, rear bumper, small Tupperware, NB2 tail lights, etc. I'll try to get some pics of everything tomorrow and the color I'm going with! Hopefully, I'll pick up a K24Z3 engine sometime next year too!

flaneur

21st August 2019, 14:38

So, John Deere Green and Yellow? It is not that far from Lotus Green and Yellow.

I have read the whole thread, but help my poor memory out; what did you mean about hopefully final? :D

Mirage775

21st August 2019, 17:52

So, John Deere Green and Yellow? It is not that far from Lotus Green and Yellow.

I have read the whole thread, but help my poor memory out; what did you mean about hopefully final? :D

LOL, NO! John Deere equipment is great, but not the colors! Blue is our favorite color, that's why it'll stay a shade of Blue.

The reason I put in the title, "hopefully final", was in the almost 3 years I've owned my car, it's gone through 4 revisions! AND, and....., it's about to go through another one, LOL!

I'm 90% sure it's about to become an MSM clone, this time I'm spraying it Base coat/Clear Coat, 2019 Hyundai Blue Lagoon Effect, with a single Silver stripe. I'm also going to glass bead blast my Black Storm S1's and respray them to match the Silver stripe! And within the next year, installing an FM turbo.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48595154521_635f8867fe_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h3bSpK)IMG_20190819_195436178_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/2h3bSpK) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

The other 10% is a custom build, almost identical to Quinn's '99 NB. But it would be an NB2 face-lift, with a GV style lower lip, Front CF Canards, CF side mirrors, small Tupperware, MSM rear lip, GV style Tail Lights and a flush mounted taller than OEM spoiler. Paint for it would be either, 2019 Porsche Miamiblau LM5C or 2019 Toyota Calvary Blue with a painted on Black single stripe and keep my Storms Black. Instead of a turbo, it would get a K-swap K24Z3 engine N/A.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48574499516_e298e0e9d9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1n1oY)NBMiata_Projects_resized-960x750 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1n1oY) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48574650932_7bfa972a5b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h1nMpA)Screenshot_2019-08-18 IMG_20151029_174150 (https://flic.kr/p/2h1nMpA) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48595206746_67cb44898d_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h3c8Wb)IMG_20190819_195641558 (https://flic.kr/p/2h3c8Wb) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48595444842_7d3728509f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h3dmHh)maxresdefault (https://flic.kr/p/2h3dmHh) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

So, you see, that's what it's an "Constantly Changing" build thread. Whichever of these builds will be final. The paint/materials will cost me about $500, but a friend of mine is going to spray it for free! I'll actually be able to enter it in car shows, if I wanted to after next Spring! Then, early 2021 I plan on doing either the turbo or the K-swap, then if that all gets done, it'll be at MATG :thumbs:

flaneur

22nd August 2019, 00:54

Mirage775

22nd August 2019, 06:43

It is probably safe to say that a project car is never done as long as or until it gets bent badly and parted out.

Well, technically, once you're done with it, it's not a project car anymore... :rolleyes:

Honestly, it's not a project car in my opinion anyway. It runs, superbly, and looks good. I'm a novice painter and wanted a nicer paint job down the road anyway. I'm not into ricey looking cars, such as, huge wings, body kits, stanced/slammed cars, etc. After looking at pics of my car, I agree, that some shots are nice and some shots are leaning towards the "rice" category, LOL! As I've mentioned before, I love the stock look of an MSM. However, I don't care for the stock look of a plain Miata. So, those subtle changes to the MSM, give it an aggressive look, at least to me. Plus, I love Metallic Blues, but cannot spray them worth a crap and they always look bad, bad like in awful...

Currently, I'm not sure about a stripe, Silver or Black and unsure if I want to change the color of my Storms?

Mirage775

25th August 2019, 21:39

Well, it's 100% happening now! I'm doing a Quinn cloned NB build, similar, without the drivetrain he has. Just body wise right now. Some of the parts he used, are unobtainable nowadays, but I'm finding what looks similar ;)

Over the last couple of days, I removed my Bomber front bumper, the large Tupperware sides and rear bits, the cut rear bumper and the 3pc Monster spoiler, trunk lid and my Carbon Miata Vintage Tail Lights.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48620820821_3304686c4a_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h5sq7a)IMG_20190824_165743484 (https://flic.kr/p/2h5sq7a) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48620469223_d20dd49f33_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h5qBA8)IMG_20190824_165730702 (https://flic.kr/p/2h5qBA8) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48620821031_73586d4a0b_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h5sqaM)IMG_20190824_165716776 (https://flic.kr/p/2h5sqaM) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Over the last couple of weeks, I've picked up a smooth NB1 front bumper, an uncut rear bumper, small side Tupperware, an unmolested hood, a smooth trunk lid, an OEM fuel lid, and unmolested NB1 head lights. They're all sitting in the garage.

Tonight, I ordered an MSM rear lip, along with a Ducktail spoiler, from Panos, at Hardcore Designs. It'll be about 1.5 months, before it's here, which is ok, as I have plenty of body work to do!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48620469018_92f528d81f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h5qBwA)nb_spoiler_thumb (https://flic.kr/p/2h5qBwA) by Jason M. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156150623@N08/), on Flickr

Over the next couple of months, I'm planning on buying GV style tail lights, an RX7 FD Front Lip, APR carbon fiber mirrors and canards. I may switch to a single side exhaust though.

Currently I'm going to keep my black Storm S1's, (I may upgrade to Titanium 15x9 S1's in the future) and painting the Miata some shade of Dark Blue Metallic. Really hoping I can get the paint done, by early next year, as we're going to the Dragon in May, for a week!

Power mods, as of now. Really, really thinking about doing a K24Z3 swap. That or an FM turbo to my current engine. The $4000 difference is a serious factor to think about...