Keep that NB conversation going

[johnfett]

Let's get a Random chat started about NB Miatas, it can be about anything as long as its NB Miata related :teehee:

was wanting to do some mods to the NB but so many options.........

what are you planing for the ultimate goal of your NB Miata?


oh yeah and I need some tires.... and wiper blades .... and brakes....

[tsingson]

I just want something that I can walk away from and keep looking back at. Something that is pretty civil for the streets but can enjoy a nice hard drive in the backroads and/or track day.

I recently purchased some Nitto Neo Gens for the NB. Haven't installed them yet. Trying to milk the last remaining few miles I have on my Falkens.

I am getting a bump on my dash where dash material is separating from the dash itself. I hate it and am looking for a solution.

[Hyper]

Looking at the NB is pure love except when I look at the trunk and the ugly tail lights. I always wondered how a NB will look with Alterna trunk lid and GV tail lights.

[Demon I Am]

NB trunk space makes me mad. I coud fit so much more stuff into my NA. I could dump the spare tire and gain some room, but it still does not seem like much.

[Phatmiata]

Looking at the NB is pure love except when I look at the trunk and the ugly tail lights. I always wondered how a NB will look with Alterna trunk lid and GV tail lights.

I would just want a Mazdaspeed, with some smaller wheels.

Where are the Photo Chop guys at?

http://vary.co.jp/wd/nb_sr/10b.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/rjgJRFV.jpg


Since this does not actually exist, maybe ask for something custom made by CarbonMiata ??

[tsingson]

I'm very happy with the way the NB looks stock. I wouldn't change anything on it. I just added the color matched hardtop which I think looks great.

[Phatmiata]

I'm very happy with the way the NB looks stock. I wouldn't change anything on it. I just added the color matched hardtop which I think looks great.

I like how clean the NB trunk looks WITHOUT the Mazda logo top dead center

[tsingson]

I don't even notice it anymore. As far as trunk space goes if I need anything more than what fits on the parcel shelf or in the trunk, I shouldn't be driving the NB.

[Hyper]

If you look at mazdaspeed NB the trunk lines and complete rear has straight lines thanks to the spoiler and rear skirt. This is what I think the NB needs to be sexy in my point of view

[tsingson]

I'm opposite. I love the NB1 with the small tupperware and small mudflaps and front lip.

[RotorNutFD3S]

This might sound all high and mighty but I absolutely love the way my car looks with the GV bumper w/ splitter, large side skirts, small mudflaps, and MSM trunk spoiler & rear lip. The lines all flow perfectly IMO. And the Morette tail lights make it that much more distinctive. Also no badges anywhere on the car, much cleaner.

If anything ever happens to destroy the GV bumper I'd switch to a stock NB1 bumper w/ fog lights and a GV lip. That's also a good look for the front end.

[HarryB]

I like clean-looking cars, and all the tupperware seen on NBs make them look less appealing IMO. The only bits I like are the front/rear MSM lips and *maybe* the small NB1 sideskirts; I even consider removing my mudflaps. That been said, most probably I will do this, as I need a lip:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/a/img9/8909/80dp.jpg

That's an Opel Astra G front lip on a buddys' NB2: PU so it doesn't break, almost no fiddling around to fit and can't beat it for 14EUR brand new!

I also dislike the huge Mazda emblem on the NB2 front bumper, searching for a NB1 one as they are smaller to replace mine.

[tsingson]

I guess with me having a silver car, the emblems don't stand out as much.

[Demon I Am]

I'd debadge if I could afford to get the holes filled and painted.

I wish I had less important priorties so that I could get the car where I want it. Oh well, is a beautiful daily driver and makes me smile. That's the important bit

[Airbrush1]

I'll be repainting my msm's front bumper next week, and I WILL have the holes for the emblem shaved. It ruins the front of the car. I wish there were more cool tidbits available for the nb interior. I think that with the exception of seats and an aftermarket wheel, my interior is done. I loved my na, but the Nb is a much better car. I compared my msm to an ND at the dealer the other day, and I won't be making the switch. It's the perfect miata as it sits, just needs a hundred more hp.

[HarryB]

There are little things to do on an NB interior that can compliment it, but it is sooo good looking even from the factory. I already have a set of custom Revlimiter gauges, I am half-way through a full LED conversion (have still to do the HVAC and switches). I plan to re-upholster my seats in leather, as well as the door card inserts and handles. I love my wooden Nardi wheel/knob/handbrake, so they won't be going anywhere, and I also plan to do a permanent Nexus 7 install. Last item will be a DIY KG Works gauge cluster, as well as some aluminum vent rings.

With regards to emblems, a friend of mine has painted his with flat black plastidip spray, and they look awesome (NC not NB though)

[Airbrush1]

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb77/airbrush711/Mobile%20Uploads/PSX_20150804_020229.jpg (http://s210.photobucket.com/user/airbrush711/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PSX_20150804_020229.jpg.html)
http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb77/airbrush711/Mobile%20Uploads/PSX_20150804_195653.jpg (http://s210.photobucket.com/user/airbrush711/media/Mobile%20Uploads/PSX_20150804_195653.jpg.html)

I love the nb interior as well!

[Demon I Am]

I love those red/black seats. Would love them more if they had a little more bolstering.

I really want NB2 door cards. CarbonMiata's flat cards are nice, but I'm not too big into the look for Carbon Fiber. After messing around with the passenger door lock mechanism, it does look like I would need the NB2 lock rods for it to fit without cutting, or to just swap the entire doors.

[HarryB]

Speaking of interiors, maybe I can get my hands on some Elise S1 seats (non-Probax, with the inflatable lumbar support). Since my driver seat has a slight tear on the leather, they need upholstering, so I was thinking biting the bullet, buy the Elise ones, add some gel foam and heated pads from my current ones and reupholster them as well. Asking price is 400EUR, which I believe is a bit steep though. Adding foam and re-upholstery gets me around 750... Any suggestions?

[Hyper]

There is a Photoshop of Brezy's car with a Flat trunk, similar to S2 Racing trunk. I will post the pictures here

[Phatmiata]

This race car builder is local to me, he rebuilds a lot of classic vintage race cars, he had rebuild both of the 1990 Escort World Challenge Miatas originally built by Rod Millen.


Here is his latest creation (for sale in the FS section).

Nothing but the best of the best parts on this dream car.
http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread.php?12473

http://i.imgur.com/7Mylewh.jpg

[tsingson]

As I said before, this car is freaking gorgeous.

[TNRooster3]

This race car builder is local to me, he rebuilds a lot of classic vintage race cars, he had rebuild both of the 1990 Escort World Challenge Miatas originally built by Rod Millen.


Here is his latest creation (for sale in the FS section).

Nothing but the best of the best parts on this dream car.
http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread.php?12473

http://i.imgur.com/7Mylewh.jpg

This thing is so pretty, it should have a name?

[Hyper]

Nice blue NB there.

Check out this thread. Can anyone in this forum Photoshop a NB with Alterna Trunk lid?

http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread.php?8064-The-NB-miata-with-hardtop-needs-a-revision&p=117276#post117276

[Demon I Am]

Got stuck in some brutal traffic this evening. It was around 100* outside. Noticed the temp on my Obdlink telling me that the car was reaching 235*. A few minutes later, traffic opened up, magically, and I'm on my way. Temp status high, the engine stutters then dies. Check the codes and I've got p1345 and p0339. Cam sensor must have overheated. Sit on the side of the highway, then c crank it back up and it runs fine. Guess to need to source a new sensor.
Question though... Isn't 135 a little too high. I've noticed on normal driving in usually around 118-125.
Is this normal, or should I be looking into my cooking system

[tsingson]

I have been wanting to make my headliner for some time now. Can't decide if I want to do leather or a suede. Will also be looking at a shorty console.

[HarryB]

I have been wanting to make my headliner for some time now. Can't decide if I want to do leather or a suede.

This is weird, I have been looking into exact the same thing, since the hardtop is out of the car, and face the same exact dilemma..

[tsingson]

How hard is it to remove the NB dash?

[HarryB]

Not hard at all, if you have a Miata service manual take a look, I believe there are less than 10 bolts needed to be undone.

http://www.mellens.net/mazda/index.html

[RustRat]

As difficult as any NA dash(I think). One bolt top center, 2 at each side near the doors, and 2 each side near the center console, over the transmission tunnel. Of course you have to drop the steering column, too, which is an extra 4 bolts, and unplug the harness, there are 4-5 points you must disconnect to remove it completely.

[Demon I Am]

Dash out is pretty easy, best to have a spare set of hands for the actual removal, but I've done it a few times on my own

[Hyper]

Can somebody put a link to all the available shorty antennas designed for the NB??

[Airbrush1]

^ this!

[HarryB]

Agreed! It was one of the first things due to change on my car, but the OEM electric aerial is still in place...

[tsingson]

If I get a new dash, will I have to change my VIN over?

[Phatmiata]

If I get a new dash, will I have to change my VIN over?

Yes very easy though, just need a rivet gun, I did it on my 96 Miata wuth the red 93LE dash, you just gotta be careful when taking out the old plate, take your time, dont rush.

[tsingson]

Ok. I will probably attack that this winter while the car is garaged.

[Demon I Am]

Yeah, pretty easy. I did a tan-to-black swap on my car, before I even owned it!

[HarryB]

Does anyone know the type and where I could possibly get white LED replacements for the fog light switches and dimmer switch?

[Hyper]

please more info on Zoom Engineering tail lights

[Airbrush1]

How many genuine sets of garage vary nb tails do we think are in the states?

[Demon I Am]

I dunno, but I do know I'm not spending a grand on a pair of tail lights. I think it's crazy that they cost as much, if not a little more than the NA tail setup.

[pnoy1duh]

How many genuine sets of garage vary nb tails do we think are in the states?

I'm going to guess less than 10 (CR names and some of these guys don't have them anymore). Here's what I remember:
anrandol, pnoy1duh (me), turbotyla, artcenter, nick ricci, quinn, green yellow, silvernb818, and ????

[Airbrush1]

Add me to the list, mine ship from anrandol tomorrow :)

[ravestation]

GV tail lights look like 1 000 000 $ but this price


Add me to the list, mine ship from anrandol tomorrow :)

please post some pics after installing

[Airbrush1]

I will! I can't decide whether to paint them body color or leave them black

[Demon I Am]

Body color

[pnoy1duh]

I will! I can't decide whether to paint them body color or leave them black

I think it depends on what you do with the rest of the car:
http://i1150.photobucket.com/albums/o608/pnoy1duh/20150613_155712_zpse5pn7tz1.jpg
https://e6e5d5f870a8d1e95a2cfc0c05a7ddfc460e417d.googledri ve.com/host/0BwMo_bz9Ju_vT2FQMHU0ZG1lQm8/WP_001829.jpg

[Airbrush1]

Well I just ordered zoom mirrors in black carbon, so I may wrap them carbon to match

[anrandol]

i personally like them left black

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7071/7118948093_3de3003d52_b.jpg

[Airbrush1]

I'm thinking black as well honestly. I'll at least install them black to begin with and see if I like the look. Lots going on with the car in the next week or so!

[Sean5294]

I like the black as well.

[ravestation]

Black !

[JamieH]

Option 3: Paint rest of car black.

[Airbrush1]

I will NEVER own another black car. As a painter, I can't possibly pay it enough attention for it to meet my standards over time

[Hyper]

Paint all cars in black, specially miatas

[tsingson]

What are you, Henry Ford? :teehee:

[HarryB]

I am planning to build a KG Works/AWD inspired dash and I was wondering how glass lenses are being retained on those. I know that glue is used, but I cannot realise in which order the parts are assembled. I am thinking of machining a recess/lip on the dial rings so the glass has something to sit against, any hints?

[Demon I Am]

cluster frame, an inner bezel with cutouts where the lenses fit in place, the outer bezel. everything's sandwiched together

[HarryB]

Thanks Demon! Yeah, that makes sense, similar to what I was thinking as well.

[tsingson]

Alright NB1 guys, I have a question for you. Do the orange centers of your taillights match? On my NB1, the left side is lighter in color than the right side. Now this is not the only NB1 that I have seen like this. Just curious to see if it's something that was done on purpose or something.

[Demon I Am]

I think my tails are the same color.



Going through 2.5 qts of oil every 2 fill-ups isn't normal, is it?

:fp: ... me and fucked-up cars, man... I'm getting older, and it's getting old.

[HarryB]

These came into my attention today

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/mazda-Mx5-Duck-Tail-Spolier-boot-Lip-For-Mk2-or-2-5-cars-eunos-miata-bodykit-/171903762439?fits=Car+Make%3AMazda%7CModel%3AMX-5&hash=item2806434007&clk_rvr_id=890500989757&rmvSB=true

What people think? I find them way more subtle than the usual ducktails/spoilers out there (sans the rivets) and I could totally see my car with one.

[tsingson]

I like it minus the rivets.

[Demon I Am]

I do like a little ducktail (a-wooo-hoo!)

[HarryB]

Got a set of "lightweight" frame rails for my NB2, but really puzzled on whether I should install them or not. My car already has all the Sport braces, but some extra stiffness would be welcome. The thing is that I wonder if it worth the extra weight, effort and most of all the 20 holes (and the associated risk for rust) in my pristine floorpan. Anyone used them in an NB2 than can chime in? Car is a DD, with some occasional trackdays as a bonus.

[tsingson]

I have them on my NB1. I like them not only for stiffening but for frame rail protection. Especially over high speed bumps.

[Demon I Am]

You'll be fine. They really do add some stiffness. Just be sure to spray down the holes with undercoating or a rust-proofing paint.

[Martin]

Just be sure to spray down the holes with undercoating or a rust-proofing paint.
Inside and outside

[HarryB]

I think you have talked me into it. That's the way I had the installation process in mind:

1) Paint frame rails, focus on their inner side (albeit they are 316L stainless)
2) Massage chassis rails if necessary, apply a light coat of undersealing spray where/if the OEM has chipped off
3) Drill holes for the frame rails and test fit
4) Remove bolts, spray holes with undersealing spray from under, zinc spray from the inside, let it dry
5) Put rails on, use washers on top and bottom, apply RTV sealant on the "inner" side of the washers, tighten down
6) Apply some more RTV around the washers (or spread what is squeezed out), let it dry
7) Spray the bolts and washers with undersealant under the car (as well as the rail itself)
8) Spray a couple of coats of zinc spray followed by 2 coats of blue colour on the inside (OCD, cannot stand knowing it is a different colour)

What do you think? Have I missed anything here?

[mini_fd]

Jeanne's car received an oil change, balance tires and rotated. Along with a location where a oil leak was. Which is the rear cam shafts seal that looks like a cap.

[Demon I Am]

NB brakes without ABS lock up pretty damn easily. Nothing like coming to a dead stop from 70mph on the highway to avoid a stalled car with no flashers on. probably murdered my tires.

[Airbrush1]

If I decide to keep my work wheels rather than selling and having a set of avant garde's built, I need to find a brake solution. I'm not happy with having to run a 5mm spacer to clear the sport brakes on my msm. Do i have options other than the non-sport nb brakes?

[HarryB]

Wilwood 4-pot calipers. I believe FM had a kit using those.

[Airbrush1]

Are they actually smaller than the sport brakes?

[Airbrush1]

I just printed the template from fm, we shall see if they fit

[ravestation]

anyone now if gram lights 57v will clear msm sport brakes ?

I'm thinking of purchasing 15x7,5 ET0

photo of the wheels below, but I don't know if these are sport brakes...

http://www.j-specperf.ch/images/rays_57v_gram_lights_03.jpg

[ravestation]

no one, really ?

[Airbrush1]

Aren't all the 01+ "sport" brakes? The spoke design leads me to believe that they WILL fit

[Slipstreem]

Found on m.net

"All Miatas from 2003-2005 had the larger 2001-2002 "sport" brakes...and base models still had 15" wheels. If you have one of the 14" space-saver spares, you'll have to change it to a 2001+ spare (they're 15"), otherwise, just about any 15" alloy wheel will fit the largest of the NB-model's brakes."

[Demon I Am]

Sorry, no experience with that wheel setup, or sport brakes.

Did some small work on the gauge cluster last night. replaced bulbs, calibrated needles etc. It's good enough for now!

[tsingson]

Will be putting the NeoGens on the car this evening. Getting it ready for the weekend trip.

[tsingson]

Tires on but wheels scuffed a bit. Not too mad, but still.

[Demon I Am]

What do you guys thing about the vintage-style fuel lid (OBX/Zoom) on the NB?

I have always wanted to pick one up, but have 2 issues: First being that the car is black. Would it stick out like a sore thumb? The only other shiny on my car are the wheel lips.

Secondly, Would it disrupt the curvy sleek look of the car, adding something from an obviously different era?

Here is the only pic I could find for reference, but it's not that great. Lid looks good, but I don't know if that's due to the wheel color:
http://www.modifiedcars.com/uploads/2010/05/139542.jpg
http://www.modifiedcars.com/uploads/2010/05/139548


OH, And I really like the look of those clear winkers and side marker lights.

[Slipstreem]

Personally I think that looks good. I too am a fan of that vintage style lid. I feel both the NA and NB have a stylish "vintage" look to them from the get go. As for the polish. Anything polished on a black car makes the color pop that much more. A very "VIP" look. And since you have polished lips on your rims they would compliment each other. But, if the chrome look isn't your thing then you can always try plasti dipping the lid black just to get an idea of how it looks and later on powder coat it.

[RotorNutFD3S]

Oh look, another website putting their watermark on my photos... Anyway, I really liked that fuel lid, it didn't disrupt the overall look of the car but people noticed it and complimented it all the time. That being said when I had the car repainted I threw the stock fuel lid back on (figured it might as well match just in case) and never swapped it back for the vintage lid, I guess it was just time for a change. What Slipstreem said is true too, I've seen the same lid powdercoated black on a black car and it looked great as well. Here's a couple more shots, in the last picture you can just see the lid, I think it's just the right splash of chrome.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6188/6120838340_033f5a77eb_o.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6086/6120838398_6354ab1e43_o.jpg

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7209/6951601892_11b006c819_b.jpg

[Demon I Am]

It does look rather classy. I want your tail lights, too.

[Hyper]

Are the Morette Lights still available??

[RotorNutFD3S]

It does look rather classy. I want your tail lights, too.

It does, I'd say go for it! I wasn't sure about the tail lights at first, but after paint and install I loved them.


Are the Morette Lights still available??

Not that I'm aware of. Rev9 did have them but the site says Sold Out now.

[HarryB]

My idle acts strange for the past couple of days. It is on a steady 820-830rpm but dips down to 780 when headlights are on. I suspect a depleted battery (unlikely as it was changed in 2013) or dying alternator. I will measure alternator output voltage tomorrow; any other leads on what it might be?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Grounding points can be a culprit for stuff like that too. Then again, when's the last time you've cleaned your intake, IAC valve, etc.?

[Sean5294]

I painted my headlight housings today.

http://i.imgur.com/xlolznE.jpg?1
http://i.imgur.com/QNX7PFS.jpg?1

[HarryB]

Grounding points can be a culprit for stuff like that too. Then again, when's the last time you've cleaned your intake, IAC valve, etc.?

That would be late May, so I doubt it. Plus it would do it regardless of the electrical load I assume. Will check the grounding points as well, thanks!

P.S. Sean, headlights look cool, love the yellow tinted fog lights as well!

[RotorNutFD3S]

A higher electrical load can sometimes exacerbate symptoms that you wouldn't see otherwise. I mentioned that specifically because I dealt with two Miatas that had a gunked up IACV on one and a failing IACV on another and both only exhibited idle dip issues when a higher electrical load was placed on the system. After cleaning/replacing the issue was gone. Something else to keep in mind depending on your location, drastic weather changes can affect idle as well. Pop a jumper between TEN and GND ports in the diagnostics box and make sure the idle speed stays between 800-900 RPM, with 900 RPM being the better target to avoid idle droop.

[tsingson]

I painted my headlight housings today.

Headlights look good. I want to do this but am always scared to open them up.

[Demon I Am]

Let's have a paint-party. I've done this on a few cars (non-Miata) without issue. Been wanting to do it, since I got the car.

[HarryB]

News from the idle issue; checked my battery voltage with engine off, with engine running and with headlights on (LO&HI), voltage seems normal. However it still runs low with headlights on. Added to that, yesterday it stalled when slowing down to come to a halt. Thought it was an one-off incident, car started immediately after. However, the same thing happened this evening as well, so I start wondering; might has to do with the low idle though. Also, I have been hearing a fluttering/squeaking noise from the passenger side, it started around the same time as the idle issues, but cannot say for sure. I cannot really locate it too, as my clutch bearing is quite noisy... Any clues?

[RotorNutFD3S]

Alternator might be letting go. Mine was making a bunch of noise but I also had noticeable voltage drop at the same time so I knew what it was. Replaced it and all was well again.

[Demon I Am]

So, I noticed my brake light staying on during the commute to work this morning. It was on for the first 20 minutes. then off for about 25 minutes. came back on again during the last 5 minutes. Fluid has decreased to the minimal level. The BMC does not appear to be leaky, neither do the hard lines at the distribution block. looks like I'll be pulling the wheels off this weekend and looking for leaks/worn pads, if the weekend can stay dry.

I've also noticed a light metallic sounding scrape/thud that only occurs when the car is going downhill and turning to the right (ie, from a parking lot, onto a main road. there's those ramped concrete joiners). Not sure what that could be yet.

[Phatmiata]

Are the Morette Lights still available??

I think there was someone selling them in Italy (possibly where they are made?) but they are like $800 USD per set, looking in my old HyperREV catalog

[tsingson]

Let's have a paint-party. I've done this on a few cars (non-Miata) without issue. Been wanting to do it, since I got the car.

Wife is not going to let me back the headlights in the oven. I'm down elsewhere though. I may be doing the sound deadener in the NB this weekend if it gets here on time.

[Demon I Am]

My house mates will be out of town the weekend of the 24-25. We can knock it out then at my place if you are down for it.

[tsingson]

I'll see if I have any things that weekend but it sounds good. I also need to know if you still have that RTV that I lent you. I need to use it for an upcoming project.

[HarryB]

Had a weird noise coming (presumably) from the exhaust. It was quite bad, at low revs/high load (3rd-5th gear pulls around 1800RPM). Adding to that I was hearing a clacking noise on some potholes last week, so I paid a visit in a friends' exhaust shop to check it. I was thinking that it would be either the heatshield coming loose or a broken exhaust hanger. Turned out the buzzing/resonating noise was due to the handbrake cable, a few zip ties fixed that. And the clacking noise was coming from the rear plate light connector, as I have removed the light housing due to a broken clip...

[Demon I Am]

I'll see if I have any things that weekend but it sounds good. I also need to know if you still have that RTV that I lent you. I need to use it for an upcoming project.

That RTV exploded in the bottom of my tool box and totally ruined a bunch of tools. :fp: Need to buy some kerosene and see if I can get them all cleaned up. I'll get you another tube if you need it.

[tsingson]

Ouch man. I'll grab another one. You have more important things to take care of there.

[Demon I Am]

We pulled the entire rear end, exhaust, drive shaft, & PPF out of The Transitional (my 2000), and it is staying in the MR.Net family. The only thing left behind the firewall is the gas tank/lines, and the rear sub-frame. It started raining too hard to get those removed. Next dry weekend will be removing the engine and front sub-frame, and that garbage. Then I need to decide on scrapping/selling the tub vs making a trailer.

[JLBMX5]

We pulled the entire rear end, exhaust, drive shaft, & PPF out of The Transitional (my 2000), and it is staying in the MR.Net family. The only thing left behind the firewall is the gas tank/lines, and the rear sub-frame. It started raining too hard to get those removed. Next dry weekend will be removing the engine and front sub-frame, and that garbage. Then I need to decide on scrapping/selling the tub vs making a trailer.

We got the rear end out in good time considering neither one of us has done it before.

[Demon I Am]

Should make the install easier, especially knowing about those ppf bolt sleeves.

[Demon I Am]

You guys think I'd be OK going from a 195/50/15 to a 195/55/15? Found a great deal, but that's the only size available in that deal. Would the extra sidewall might help fill in the wheel gap a little better?

[HarryB]

Difference is 10mm in sidewall height, so pretty much negligible. For the same tire construction (sidewall stiffness) you will get a bit more comfort but a bit less response in steering, both due to sidewall flexing more due to extra height. I would personally go for them.

So I guess the Mazdaspeed wheels are going to Madison? :D

[Demon I Am]

You know it. I'll hang on to the stickers for our few weeks of bad winter, then switch out. Thought about getting fun rubber, but I commute 80-90 miles on the highway every week day... Send like a waste.

[Demon I Am]

Alright, I'm down to pulling the front suspension (Need the right tools for the job) and the motor/tranny/subframe on this NB. There's really nothing else to do. I have a friend with a cherry picker, which is pretty great, other than the fact that it will not roll very well in the dirt. There's been very little interest on any of my part-out stuff, so I don't think the tub is going to sell. Might just drop the motor down, then cut off the front end and walk the body away. Scrap price for steel is only $2.00/100 pounds :( Engine will be able to sit on a furniture dolly in the shed. Hopefully someone will buy it quickly. If not, I'll tear it down and learn to rebuild a motor. Thing still has 185 compression, despite the mileage.

Oh, and now that I'm firmly in car payment territory, my best friend is ready to sell his 2001 Miata (LS 119K). This is the one that I installed the big package MP62 FFS kit on. It has peeling clearcoat on black paint, decent tan interior, Borla Exhaust, Nice looking, but cheap 17" wheels and a style bar :lol:. He's not mechanically inclined and can not figure out some persistent issues (I'm hypothesizing vacuum and tuning related). It's got a running rich OBD code, and probably a bad cat. I think most of those issues could be fixed if he'd let me borrow the car for a month or so to do some diagnosing. The price he offered me last night made me want to cry, and punch him for not having this conversation sooner. Basically, I could get the FFS kit with a free car... But I don't need another car loan.

[RustRat]

That sucks, if you'd sell some stuff maybe you could get the second s/c miata. Or you can get it anyway. You know, we all can find excuses to buy another miata. :D

[Demon I Am]

Honestly, I'd rather him let me borrow it, fix it, and him be able to drive it. Though the idea of a second faster/meaner Miata is a very sinister and alluring one.

Current known issues (from fuzzy memory)

*I think he's having a rich flow issue from improper card set, and this has probably killed the cat. He's replaced the 02s rather recently.
*Not sure what's causing the Idle dip/surges. They are supposedly intermittent. Most likely a vacuum leak, could possibly have to to with the cat, if it's badly clogged.
*Intermittent non-cranking issues. First time it happened, he replaced the main relay, and it fired right up. A few weeks later, it happened again. Said he freaked out for a while, tried to crank the car again and it fired up. Sounds to me like a Crank sensor shitting the bed.
*Bose Radio stopped working after getting out at a store and back in. Fuse was fine. No lights on the unit itself. Either Bose doing what it does best, or some electrical gremlin along the way.

[Demon I Am]

Madison received some mean green jewelry in the mail today.
https://flic.kr/p/Ba87NX

[Martin]

Demon, the pic didn't show for me so...


https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5656/23075724035_ee31d55ba0_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ba87NX)Mean green jewelry for the princess (https://flic.kr/p/Ba87NX) by Tony Driver (https://www.flickr.com/photos/demoniam/), on Flickr

[Demon I Am]

Thanks. was on the phone at the time, lol

[Demon I Am]

Now I realized that I will probably never install these things, because to do so means removing the side skirts as well as the front fenders. Fenders are easy but taking the skirts off is a pain in the ass.

Well who wants to buy a set a frog arms and brand new hardware?

[Airbrush1]

Possibly interested....

[Demon I Am]

Go get em, tiger:
http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread.php?13079-Boss-Frog-Frog-Arms-with-brand-new-hardware&p=181350#post181350

[HarryB]

Think you should give them a try. Everyone who has tried them (not specifically them, but fender braces in general) is impressed. I had one guy telling me that these made more difference to his car than a rollbar in terms of "stiffness" feeling. Plus you could then just sell the sideskirts with the airdam...(not my piece of cake, sorry :P )

[Airbrush1]

I find out if we're getting a 3rd dog or not tomorrow afternoon, thats the deciding factor for me!

[RustRat]

In my NA, you can undo just the top of the fenders, and the fender itself flexes outwards without bending or cracking a few inches. Maybe it would be enough to install them, carefully?

[Demon I Am]

Can't take the skirts off permanently. There are plugs that are drilled into the body. Honestly, the hardest thing about doing them is not destroying the trim clips and having to removed the old double stick tape. I'll leave them up for sale. If they are not gone by Sunday, then I may try to install them. If they sell its more money for other stuff.

[HarryB]

Got some issue with my idle lately that drives me nuts. It used to dip when I had electrical load, so I suspected battery/alternator issues. Measured both, and seemed OK. The issue persisted so I did a base idle reset which did almost nothing. Last Sunday, I cleaned up the throttle body and ICV with brake cleaner and compressed air, followed by another base idle reset, which solved the problem for a couple of days...until yesterday. Car bogged and died twice when on idle (traffic light) and today I noticed some unusual high idle when hot (1000-1100RPM instead of the usual 850). It bogged a bit when idling and steering as well, due to the increased load from the steering pump. I want to remove ICV completely to give it a good clean, but should I also look elsewhere? There is no obvious vacuum leak, the only thing I am also suspecting is the EGR valve. Any other suspects for such a behaviour?

[Demon I Am]

could be the beginnings of a failing cam sensor.

[ravestation]

Just arrived!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/17/5e832729a288abe15e6360a61cc33eea.jpg

[ravestation]

Need help... Zoom manual sucks!

Can anyone tell me how to remove oem rear view mirror ?

[Airbrush1]

Honestly, it should have a screw and then slide off.... let me go look at my msm

[Airbrush1]

I'm wrong, Mine Has Some Play Like It Should Slide Up And off, But Doesn't ACTUALLY Want To move. There is a little slot that might be meant to pry from?

[ravestation]

I tried to put a srewdriver into this "hole" and push it with no result.

[HarryB]

"Slip a little flat screwdriver up into that little slot in the base, push parallel to the windshield towards the header while moving the mirror base in the same direction. There is a little leaf spring in the mirror that presses into a divot on the "button" glued to the windshield. All you have to do is lift it out of the divot and the mirror will slide upwards off the base. No prying, just a gentle upward thrust, it's not a very strong spring and it is angled to slide up and over the point of the screwdriver as it is inserted in the slot."

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s264/orion4096/97_mirror_removal.jpg

[ravestation]

HarryB it finally worked! Thx a lot.

However now I need to figure out how to intall zoom...

Accordingly to manual:
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/19/431fa92171d856d4b7064e267cbf7de9.jpg

I should mount the nut in the base on the screen but how?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/19/be3cd29b252d73310fcd6360aefb8f20.jpg

I need to remove this thing or what? How to do it?

[Airbrush1]

You'll slide the new mirror base over the factory mounting puck, and use the set screw to hold it in place.

[ravestation]

According to manual yes, but there is no place to put a nut where the screw goes.

Look at the factory mounting base on the windscreen.

I think I know the anwser.

I think zoom is selling wrong arm for nb or msm has the same mout as nc!

Please look at the link below:
http://item.rakuten.co.jp/auc-zoom-eng/8863g_03/#PopUp1450566500623536

[Airbrush1]

Shit, I thought the mounting arm itself was threaded... there's almost zero chance you're successfully removing that mounting puck without breaking the windshield trying. Does the zoom mirror at least slide over that puck? You may be able to tap the hole in the mounting arm and use a different sized set screw than the one orovided

[ravestation]

Airbrush, see what I added... I think zoom provides wrong arm!

I will email them with the issue!

[Demon I Am]

Yay parts from Japan are here

[RustRat]

Pics! Unboxing pics ASAP. Pppppleaaase!

[HarryB]

What Peter said!

[Demon I Am]

I am far too impatient for unboxing. It was opened before I left the post office parking lot. And I drove straight to my storage unit to install it.

Installation was extremely easy: if you need help take a look in Jamie H's build thread. Took maybe 15 minutes tops, including time for cleaning.

http://i.imgur.com/B5VRXeV.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/8qgyxMk.jpg

[Demon I Am]

I think it looks a lot better on white than I was originally anticipating.

[HarryB]

Thank god you are impatient! I think it looks absolutely stunning!

[Airbrush1]

Looks awesome!! Can't wait to order mine!

[HarryB]

Anyone knows if a NB front lip will fit a NB2? I like the look of the OEM lips, as they remind me of the NA R-PKG ones, but cannot find any pics fitted in an NB2.

[tsingson]

From what I have been reading, the NB2 bumper is different enough that the NB1 lip will not fit properly. I am sure with enough time and modification, someone could get it to work. But somebody please correct if I am wrong.

[HarryB]

Trying to get some info regarding the RS Products HVAC inserts for the NB(2); I am after a Type 01 one, but I am unsure if they have an amber film like the OEM ones or not. Actually, getting rid of that film is what made me look their way at the first place. Anyone that has those?

[HarryB]

Found out via Rev9 that they are indeed clear, so they light up any colour the bulb (or bulb condom) is. Will order a set as soon as some more urgent items are sorted.

[chiefmg]

Anyone knows if a NB front lip will fit a NB2? I like the look of the OEM lips, as they remind me of the NA R-PKG ones, but cannot find any pics fitted in an NB2.

As I recall, RSpeed used to carry a NB1 style lip made for NB2 front ends. Might have been made by IL Motorsports. Last time I looked they didn't show it but since you are in Greece you might be able to order directly from IL M. Edit: here is the link to ILM: https://www.ilmotorsport.de/shop/article_detail.php5?aid=491&oid=1365&depth=3&page=0&count=15&PHPSESSID=f833a2febce5f44c8ade0fef05f41df2

Looked back through some of the early posts in this thread, I had both my front and rear emblems painted body color so they blend in. Looks a lot better in my opinion.

[HarryB]

Thanks! I had the chance to buy a NB one (used) for cheap, that's why I asked. Most probably gonna go to an RS Factory Stage lip at some point.

[NbSteve]

what do you guys think of an 02 LS nb2 44,000 miles on it, second owner, garages by first, clean int. Asking 7500. Obviously I'll shoot lower but what would you guys pay for it?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[tsingson]

That seems like a good deal. If you can get it lower, even better.

[Demon I Am]

So, let's say I was ordering some aftermarket tail lamps. Is carbon fiber/carbon kevlar worth the extra cost increase? Especially if they will end up painted body-color?
I have not seen the Esqualetto or Morette tails pop up in a very long time. They are hard to find used, and to be honest, I'm not spending $900 on tail lights.
So Carbon Miata is probably my choice, and has been for a while. The 30% price difference between the Fiberglass $365 and Carbon Fiber $465 is a bit dramatic. I do understand the materials cost difference.


The most obvious reason why people choose to go for the CF is weight. I'm not a racer, the pound or 2 of materials difference does not matter to me.
The second most obvious reason is "race factor". Carbon Fiber, yo.

What I'd like to know is the durability differences. The tail light shouldn't be subject to stress, as it it is a firmly mounted piece. I'm sure both pieces would fare the same in a rear-end collision. Will the fiberglass version survive for the length of the car's life, or will it eventually start cracking and chipping? Obviously paying more up front for a "better" product makes sense. If the only 2 advantages are ones I don't care about, then I should go with the FG version, right?

[HarryB]

For durability, the worst enemy is UV and heat. These both depend on the resin system more than the material itself. In addition, glass fiber is usually less brittle. Simple answer; go for glass fiber.

[HarryB]

As you may know, my car is a 1.6 EU model and I am thinking of moving to a 1.8 flywheel/clutch to support future power mods. Debating over buying an XTD flywheel over a lightened OEM 1.8 one, as I am not confident over the XTD quality. On the other hand, balancing an OEM flywheel after machining out the inertia ring? Not too confident as well...

[Airbrush1]

I believe I had one in my previous nb, and never had an issue @ 292whp. If you're worried about balance etc, just have the machine shop check it before install

[HarryB]

Anyone having a set of FM springs that wants to get rid of? Potentially interested.

[NbSteve]

Anybody interested in the MSM racing hart 17x7 wheels? Fair condition. No rash but the coating is peeling a little on some


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[kung fu jesus]

Anybody interested in the MSM racing hart 17x7 wheels? Fair condition. No rash but the coating is peeling a little on some


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Please make an ad in the classifieds if you have something to sell.

:)

[HarryB]

Do you know if there are any differences in the MSM vs N/A 1.8 NB clutches? Looking for an Exedy replacement that can take up a boost in power/torque. Going up from my stock 1.6 to 1.8 (flywheels as well) but was wondering whether the MSM one can hold up better. Also looking in Exedy Stage I organic clutches but they are more than twice (actually almost triple) the money. Smooth engagement and OEM feel is high up on my list.

[NbSteve]

I would assume not unless you have an SE or another nb model with 6speed. As far as the flywheel, probably so because it's the same motor. BUT best way to check is go to Autozone or something and ask if the clutch part number for an 04msm is the same as whatever model you have.

[kung fu jesus]

How much power are you planning to make?

[HarryB]

Looking to support future mods, so 190ish whp and less than 145 lb-ft torque...:whistle:

[NbSteve]

Best LOUD bolt on exhaust for an nb2 without sounding rice? Like you know how 350z's can be loud as shit and sound great?
If there's a specific thread I'll check there


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Airbrush1]

Miatas can't be loud as shit and sound good :(

[NbSteve]

Damn[emoji19] I have a Borla axleback from PO and it sounds good but it's still quiet imo


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HarryB]

So this came up on my FB page:

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo189/HarryBk88/Inspiration/14291703_159199504523041_2634444034408145242_n_zps 8tfvqqmi.jpg (http://s374.photobucket.com/user/HarryBk88/media/Inspiration/14291703_159199504523041_2634444034408145242_n_zps 8tfvqqmi.jpg.html)

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo189/HarryBk88/Inspiration/14212628_159199521189706_7457154151468495622_n_zps 5vybisnm.jpg (http://s374.photobucket.com/user/HarryBk88/media/Inspiration/14212628_159199521189706_7457154151468495622_n_zps 5vybisnm.jpg.html)

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo189/HarryBk88/Inspiration/14232583_159199564523035_3355358249209788900_n_zps jfwjarz6.jpg (http://s374.photobucket.com/user/HarryBk88/media/Inspiration/14232583_159199564523035_3355358249209788900_n_zps jfwjarz6.jpg.html)

Made by a local guy that builds various fiberglass parts. Not sure about quality or fitment but seems decent. His other stuff (flares, ducktails etc.) are rumored to be of excellent quality. Hope to get some real info soon.

[Airbrush1]

I need details

[tsingson]

Good god.

[Demon I Am]

looks like the JJ Warhorse one

[NCGreasemonkey]

I know I'm NA. But I love the fact that it appears to be a Hatch rather than a trunk. Nicer lines!
Hope this pans out and becomes available.

[k1l4m]

Best LOUD bolt on exhaust for an nb2 without sounding rice? Like you know how 350z's can be loud as shit and sound great?
If there's a specific thread I'll check there


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I'm biased since I have one but... Buddy Club Spec II. https://youtu.be/uqHHDxYY-fw

It's an axle back so as long as it is paired with a decent mid pipe, shouldn't sound ricey (or "that" ricey :P).

[RustRat]

The fastback hardtop is produced in Greece, so I don't know if it would be worth to send it in the States :(


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[HarryB]

As Peter said, made in Greece, so shipping would be a deal breaker most probably. This one is actually a based on a heavily modified OEM one, and indeed has a functional hatch, which IMO looks great. I would love some side windows though. The guy that built it says that fitment/quality is so-so at the moment, but he's working on making it at least at OEM levels. As this is still a prototype, there is no word on pricing yet; will keep you posted!

[HarryB]

New pic

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo189/HarryBk88/14671089_181743152268676_4323383938080897622_n_zps 2mmn90jc.jpg (http://s374.photobucket.com/user/HarryBk88/media/14671089_181743152268676_4323383938080897622_n_zps 2mmn90jc.jpg.html)

Started a separate thread to keep everything together. IMO it needs side windows...

[tsingson]

I agree. Side windows would be awesome. Fastback would be a cool route for me. If I could find one locally......

[Demon I Am]

Well, I think the time has come to get a 4 door. I'm a family man now, and the garage only holds 2. Going to get her cleaned up and ready to sell. If I can, I'd love to find a Subie STI or possibly an outback. I'll grab another Miata as a fun toy after life settles down a little.

[JamieH]

Be prepared to be introduced to the 4 door, AWD, turbo tax if you go for an STI. It's absolutely ridiculous what people are asking, and seemingly getting, for WRXs and EVOs.

[MX5RACER]

I picked up a NB1 front lip from eBay for $110 shipped.

16770

Sprayed it with Silver plasti-dip.

[MX5RACER]

Be prepared to be introduced to the 4 door, AWD, turbo tax if you go for an STI. It's absolutely ridiculous what people are asking, and seemingly getting, for WRXs and EVOs.

Don't over look the Mazdaspeed 6's. AWD and nearly 300hp of turbo fun but with with ZOOM-ZOOM! I have one and love it.

[HarryB]

My personal favorite would be a 2nd gen Forester..

[MX5RACER]

My personal favorite would be a 2nd gen Forester..

A Forester STi would be cool. There are a bunch floating around. The STi drivetrain swaps right over to the Foresters.

[Jarrett]

Does anyone have bulbs they prefer. I need to replace a headlight bulb and sorta want more from them.

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

[RustRat]

I liked Osram Nightbreakers for my NA.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HarryB]

Nightbreakers or Philips Xtreme Vision are great, deffo an update over stock ones.

Was wondering how a 93LE style interior would look on an NB(2). Think a tan interior one, with all tan surfaces painted red.... Hmmmm...

[tsingson]

What color exterior?

[HarryB]

Mine is Strato blue, but it was more of a general, what-if thinking rather than an actual plan on anything

[Demon I Am]

Nightbreakers or Philips Xtreme Vision are great, deffo an update over stock ones.

Was wondering how a 93LE style interior would look on an NB(2). Think a tan interior one, with all tan surfaces painted red.... Hmmmm...

That has been kicking around in my head since I bought Maddie

[JamieH]

So... my friend Zach bought another 26k mile VR MSM... this time only 1,100 miles from home.

http://i.imgur.com/wpsnKI1.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/I7MSCNU.jpg

Along with having an FMII kit and full exhaust, it came with all the stock parts as well. Which, after some clever Tetris like packing, all fit in 2 Miatas on the trip home. A weekend stop at the Gap was included as well to take a nice break and enjoy ourselves. It's the kind of thing you can do when you don't end up wasting an extra 3 days just trying to get a car running properly (mostly) before buying it.

The car was basically in Kansas City, Kansas. We drove my car, Betty, to go check it out and for him to get it. It was a far better experience than the last road trip we went on. I mean, for one, the car ran and drove properly without us having to turn a wrench to get it to do so. The first impression was far better too, as we saw it drive up to the location the previous owner met us at. Another plus? Zero rust on the car.

Is it perfect? No, but it's far better than the first low mile MSM he bought. This one at least has a matching condition for the miles it has.

There's a few things he plans to address, such as wheels & tires (9 year old A/S don't make for the best sports car tires (which, what is up with people and low mile MSMs and old tires?)), all of the typical MSM... flaws that the FMII kit hasn't fixed (steering rack, cruise control, delay valve clutch master, etc.), swapping out the GT seats, a roll bar, etc., etc.

And all those stock parts will go to good use to returning the old FM test bed MSM back to stock mechanically to likely eventually sell.

[NbSteve]

Speaking of MSM's it's been a while since I posted [emoji28] but here's my 1 year transformation https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170602/2123019deec4fb3d8f9fa3409a44de61.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170602/b8c5c48ceb1e2ecd599a11c536e06de6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170602/f1b5b11e92da9d671c1b36e3f20ab70a.pnghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170602/e272c2ed8a85bc740f4544116e70b148.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[RustRat]

How much do the stock MSM turbo parts go for? Would love to get my hands on them and make my own MSM, since we didn't have it here officially.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Demon I Am]

at 14 years old, I'd rather buy fresh parts than a bunch of stuff with unknown miles and unknown levels of abuse

[RustRat]

I guess you're right. I just like the OEM look of the stock MSM engine bay.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MX5RACER]

I was able to get my VVT swapped '99 on the dyno the other day. Here are the results, maybe when it cools down a bit (Almost 100 degrees on the dyno) I will go back and do some more pulls.

The graph is comparing my '99 VVT swap (Blue line) vs my track car, the Track Rat (Red line). They are both running DIYPNP's (same spark table), VVTuner (same VVT table), Flat top intake manifolds similar custom intakes. The '99 is running a Maxim Works header, Racing Beat mid-pipe and Roadster Sport Muffler. The Track Rat is running a Racing Beat header and custom 2.5" mandrel bent exhaust with Hushpower II 18" muffler.

17234

[NicolasN]

Has anyone tried to fit na outer door handles to an nb2?

Στάλθηκε από το LYA-L29 μου χρησιμοποιώντας Tapatalk

[Hyper]

Has anybody found a webpage where I can get reasonable price leather door cards for NB platform? The Nakamae units are like a $800.00

[kung fu jesus]

Get local upholstery shop referrals, have an idea of what you want, and how you want them to look (example pictures), get the quotes.