BoBo's 96 montego blue (short) build thread

[BoBo]

I decided on making a build thread after having the car for almost a year. I have seen other peoples build thread and feedback on parts, which some gave me some ideas, so I want to return the favor for other people and share my experience.

I first got this car at around 130k miles with a good clutch. However, the shocks were blown, the paint was not the best. It had dents like an old car. I decided to buy this car because everything was original excluding the rims and is rust free. In addition, the seller was easy to work with and provided maintenance receipts.

*Most of the parts I purchased can be found at GoMiata, PartsGeek and GWR.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/16155231_large.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/16155231_large.jpg.html)

In the first week that I got the car, I replaced all of the typical maintenance parts: fluids, some ignition parts, and added a K&N air filter. I'm sure I forgot to mention something. Since the car was outdoors most of it's life, I washed it and used a clay bar. I also bought a used front bumper since the bumper was cracked in the front, due to someone backing into it. I replaced the shift boot because it had a hole. I just bought a new OEM boot from MAZDA.

[BoBo]

A week later I bought a set of Koni Streets and FCM bumpstops. My experience with (Streets) was, "OK," with OEM springs. I bought RB springs & tow hooks from GWR, but after a day of driving with RB springs, I found out that the rate was too low and I would bottom out and experience fender rubs during aggressive driving.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01311.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01311.jpg.html)

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01109.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01109.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/581494_10152674754815554_1719739322_n.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/581494_10152674754815554_1719739322_n.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I was planning to throw away the RB springs after a week. However, I didn't want the hassle in removing it with the shocks, so I sold my whole setup for a good deal to someone who had recently bought a Miata with blown shocks and rusty OEM springs. Boy, he was happy to get rid of his rusty springs. Anyway, I bought a new set of Bilstein HD with EIbach pro-kits. Unfortunately, the springs were out of stock and back-ordered for 2 weeks. I ended up using the OEM springs once again. My experience with the Billies was good. I noticed that the rebound was a bit too much for the OEM springs, it was a bit bumpy on rough roads. I thought I would be riding on bump-stops, but the extra height from the 96 springs and the new 46/36 FCM bump-stops I bought prevented that from happening. BTW, my Eibach springs are for sale. When time and money permits I will remove the shocks and have it re-valved by FCM to work with OEM springs and maybe FM springs.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01387.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01387.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

After about 2 months, I bought the simplest roll bar with the least interference because it was my DD/Track. In addition, it was also hardtop friendly. I bought it from GWR. I noticed there was less vibrations in the car. It wasn't much, but better than nothing.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01108.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01108.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Maybe after a month I bought an Ebay strut tower bar. The engine bay looks better, but even with double wishbone setup, the car could use additional stiffening because it's a convertible. I'm looking to add a rear bar as well, to even out the front and back in the future. The engine bay, when I first got the car, was clean and had no leaks. I'm looking to keep it that way. I also bought a new front license plate holder from MAZDA. I was kinda shocked how much they charge for those.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01217.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01217.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I had extra tires in the garage, so I bought some daisies to use on them. I got a deal from a fellow Miata enthusiast. I also bought an ebay R-lip rep. The car could use a chin.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01216.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01216.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Somewhere along the way I bought a faded red Hardtop, from a fellow enthusiast, who blew his motor and needed the $. I bought a set of lightweight NB wheels, and a new set of 205/50 -15 DZ 101 tires. My experience with the DZ 101 tire was great. It's not the Star Specs like I had before, but it had good grip and will have a longer use. I wanted to buy after market wheels, but for now I want to keep the subtle and original look. I forgot to mention I also bought a Viper alarm to help deter thieves when it's not in the garage. In addition, I wanted that key-less entry since my door lock was getting worn out.

My Russel speed bleeder, ATE slotted rotors , and Hawk HP pads came in the mail from GWR, partsgeek, and tirerack, and I was excited to install it. I love the speed bleeder, it made flushing the whole system with ATE super blue racing fluid a JOKE.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01380.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01380.jpg.html)

I wasn't planning on spending this much on the car, but that's what it is when you are a car enthusiast.

[BoBo]

I think it's been almost a year now, I finally got the hardtop re-sprayed. It's seems to be on the green side, but I'm planning to paint the entire car anyway in the future, so it's just to get rid of the faded red look. The Garage star brackets and locks also came in the mail, so everything is smooth sailing. The hardtop paint was a 2 stage PPG waterborne paint. I noticed a lot of reduce vibrations, flex, and road noise when having the hardtop on, so that's a plus.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01560.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01560.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

My mazdaspeed license plate cover finally came.The quality is good and it's not plastic, which is a plus.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC015612.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC015612.jpg.html)

I am still waiting on my front and rear mudguards. I think it should be coming in the mail today, I will check in a few minutes. Maybe I'm missing something I installed, but for now this is all I can think of.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01573.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01573.jpg.html)

The car was also aligned to FM specs.

[The Driver]

^ Regarding your HT color, Montego Blue was a color offered for four years in four (4) different shades. They are all code M8, but one has to specify for the specific year. I got lucky when I bought my HT as it had been painted from new as '96 M8 Montego. Just FYI!


PS: if for some crazy azz reason you want to sell your passenger side front fender, give me a holler! ;)

[BoBo]

Thanks for that info. I didn't even know they came in 4 shades. I will make sure I have my car re-sprayed a 96 version.

[The Driver]

Thanks for that info. I didn't even know they came in 4 shades. I will make sure I have my car re-sprayed a 96 version.

You are welcome. In all honesty, it is one of the stupidiest things Mazda did to the Miata!

[BoBo]

My Front and rear mudguards came in the mail. However, I wasn't able to get a good shot, the mudguards seemed t have blended inn due to the sun. I will take another picture during one of my mountain runs.

This is basically the finished product. I have to take care of some school bills, so I'm not sure if I'm going to do anything to the roadster in the very near future. The only thing I am interested in is a $4000 paint and body work. And boost.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01576.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01576.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Me and my roadster chilling, enjoying nature, and waiting for the brakes to cool down. A red or Montego blue RX7 FD would be nice to own.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/DSC01583.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/DSC01583.jpg.html)

[theothersawyer]

Very nice! I like this build. Sometime the nice simple OEM+ looks are the best! Good work!

[BoBo]

Very nice! I like this build. Sometime the nice simple OEM+ looks are the best! Good work!

Thanks, hopefully I can save up for an FM turbo or kraftwerks sc. Some extra power could help.

[BoBo]

Look what came in the mail today, I don't know what the japan writing says, It could mean Beatrush or great news :)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01809_zps6709332c.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01809_zps6709332c.jpg.html)

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01813_zps758a6b59.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01813_zps758a6b59.jpg.html)

[speedypenguin]

It says:

MAZDA
Beatrush
Oil Filler Cap
Silver/Mazda

:P

Looks great! Nice and classy.

[BoBo]

cool, you must be fluent in Japanese. It says by Laile, I assume its own by that company, I never heard of it. But I definitely like the look and quality of their oil cap compared to oem.

[atank]

Very Nice piece!!

[BoBo]

Thanks, my battery went sour I should get my new one in the mail tomorrow.

[BoBo]

I noticed that the rubber vent were square shaped, so I cut the tips and in the new battery goes. I noticed that the WestCo battery is a bit heavier than my old one,must be a better quality and have more CCA.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01823_zps5fe91edb.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01823_zps5fe91edb.jpg.html)

This was the square tip that you had to cut off.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01828_zpseed7d444.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01828_zpseed7d444.jpg.html)

Looks good, the car turned over faster.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01829_zps136602ed.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01829_zps136602ed.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I keep forgetting to post this, matches well with the track Helmet.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC01822_zps5616f67c.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC01822_zps5616f67c.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Took a picture today, it's been raining like crazy all week, I wish I had a garage to work on my cars during the rainy days.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02055_zpsd7f53383.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02055_zpsd7f53383.jpg.html)

[brontosaurus]

Nice car.. but what exactly about it is "track prepped"? Your roll bar won't pass inspection at any sanctioned event.

[BoBo]

Nice car.. but what exactly about it is "track prepped"? Your roll bar won't pass inspection at any sanctioned event.

I had no problems taking my car to the track using my Harddog Hard Bar for HPDE, hence "track prepared" .However, I do have an autopower cage on the side.

[BoBo]

This is my Autopower cage that I had on my 2 or 3 previous roadsters. I left it at my parents house because I find it a bit overkill for daily commuting and occasional trackdays. However, if I ever decide to convert my car into a spec miata, I will use this SCCA Club Racing approve bar. Otherwise, it will just be a garage decoration until I decide what to do with it. I used to have a couple of AP cages, now I only have one. Wow, I can't believe that Ive had this for 5-7 years, time flies.
10880

[BoBo]

CRAP, I guess my FM reinforcement rails are backordered:(.....Oh well, my next track event isn't gonna happen until May.

[BoBo]

I just visited my parents today and look what I found in my old room. I didn't realize I still had these. The slicks are far from being stale so I will give these a shot if I go to my next local AutoX event.In addition, I forgot I had this much oil laying around LoL.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/m_00b0edd6a4a64e6c8cddfadf0accb63e.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/m_00b0edd6a4a64e6c8cddfadf0accb63e.jpg.html)

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/IMG_2973.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/IMG_2973.jpg.html)

[javierf]

I have a 1994 M Edition that was Montego Blue. :D
Previous owner painted metallic blue over it. :bop:
I wonder what kind of shape my original paint was...

[BoBo]

I have a 1994 M Edition that was Montego Blue. :D
Previous owner painted metallic blue over it. :bop:
I wonder what kind of shape my original paint was...

I dealt with the same thing when I bought my mr2 a few years back. It was satin black but the oem paint was blue, then I find out a week later from the previous owners friend that the car's blue paint was actually in great condition. I was so upset that I spent $$$ to have it painted PPG Torch Red. Anyways, I ended up selling the car to get this miata. I love MR2's, but there's just so much more support for these roadsters.

[BoBo]

It's been maybe 40k since I did a tune up, so I replaced the plugs and fuel filter this morning. There was no Mazda dealership near my area, so I just bought Napa gold fuel filter, I hope it's as good as OEM. The Exedy stage 1 clutch and braided lines are on it's way, so I'm stoked.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02078_zps54748f90.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02078_zps54748f90.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I bought a deck yesterday with an Ipod hookup. I'm sick and tired of that oem cassette crap.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02081_zps033b7bc4.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02081_zps033b7bc4.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I had Best Buy install the deck today. I noticed that the faceplate changes to different colors, pretty cool.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02085_zpsabcd8a0c.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02085_zpsabcd8a0c.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02088_zpsb98b935e-1.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02088_zpsb98b935e-1.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02089_zps12dbc460-1.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02089_zps12dbc460-1.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I finally got what I have been waiting for; the FM reinforcement rails which look nice, and I like the FM logo. This should help stiffen up the chassis a bit. My roadster, would be like a Miata on Viagra, once I get my FM shock tower bar.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02100_zps595d723d.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02100_zps595d723d.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02104_zpsa5a76262.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02104_zpsa5a76262.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I finally got my Mazda RMS. Mazda quality is the Key:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02098_zpseef5f8b9.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02098_zpseef5f8b9.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I forgot to post a picture of my 5xRacing radiator seal plate that I installed a while back. It should help cool down the radiator during Track days. I noticed that my temperature gauge needle was more to the cold side after the install.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02038_zps1077c87f.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02038_zps1077c87f.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

My Exedy stage 1 racing clutch & Stainless steel braided clutch line arrived at the door the other day. I just need that 8 psi of boost to go along with the clutch.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02090_zpsc40216a2.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02090_zpsc40216a2.jpg.html):)

[BoBo]

Crap, I keep forgetting to pick up my FM shock bar at my parents place. I will post some pics as soon as I come by to pick it up. I'm buried with too much HW and work.

[BoBo]

Finally bought a PCV and grommet, the old grommet was stale and the PCV was dirty.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02171_zps7ad82130-1.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02171_zps7ad82130-1.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Finally.This is picture with the FM Rails installed, I don't know why the installer painted the Rails when It's stainless steel. I told one of the reps at the shop to only coat the bolts and where the bolt goes. Regardless the install was definitely good.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/FMRails_zps1ffe3134.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/FMRails_zps1ffe3134.jpg.html)
I got the exedy stage 1 racing clutch installed the day before the rails were done. I just need some form of boost, as long as it's a minimum of 8 PSI.

[BoBo]

I just came back from a quick mountain run, the car now corners like it's on viagra. I'm happy that the chassis is now much stiffer compared to a miata with no STB, Hardtop, and FM rails.

[BoBo]

I had a strong feeling that the mechanic, from PR Motorsports, wasted the rubberize coating spray, that I gave him, on my rustproof stainless steel rails instead of spraying it on the holes to rust proof them. It kept bothering me for days, so I removed the seat carpeting, and guess what? Unfortunately, I was right, the holes were not sprayed with the rubberized coating.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Norustproofing_zpsbc839b4e.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Norustproofing_zpsbc839b4e.jpg.html)

If you want something done right, you gotta do it yourself. I, luckily, had blue silicone on hand, and it even matched my paint LoL.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/rustproofing_zps500206dc.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/rustproofing_zps500206dc.jpg.html)

[atank]

That is also why I like doing things myself!

[BoBo]

New inner & outer shift boot from Mazda. I wish had of bought it sooner, with this installed and the turret topped off, the car shifts like "Hot Knife Through Butter.

Old & New
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02229_zps605ee4ae.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02229_zps605ee4ae.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02222_zps71835c39.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02222_zps71835c39.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I converted to the OEM NB shift knob & bought the TopGaiters leather shift boot & e-brake cover.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02238_zpsb2b36dd2.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/shifter%20Boot%20install/DSC02238_zpsb2b36dd2.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Still running strong @185k.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02306_zps4c019946.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02306_zps4c019946.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

RB power pulse exhaust system arrived yesterday. The looks and quality is second to none. GWR ships fast!!!
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02381_zpsaf50f09c.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02381_zpsaf50f09c.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

More pictures. The RB Cat Back definitely gives the car a nice accent. Not raspy & obnoxious like those coffee canister exhaust. I'm still in the "Break-In-Period" so for now, it has a very mild but deep drone, only on throttle though.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02383_zps61fe9ea9.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02383_zps61fe9ea9.jpg.html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02386_zps1cfbdc37.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02386_zps1cfbdc37.jpg.html)

[Ihatecars]

I've been seriously considering the RB cat-back. What did you think of the weight of the entire thing? I've heard a few people complain about it being heavy.

[BoBo]

I've been seriously considering the RB cat-back. What did you think of the weight of the entire thing? I've heard a few people complain about it being heavy.

It's actually about 5lbs heavier than the oem unit. OEM unit is 22lbs vs RB being 27lbs...plus or minus a pound according to my scale. I will post a review tomorrow. I gotta say, it seems well built, it's a crime that this shiny bling has to be under the car.

[BlitzWing]

as a fellow RB kit owner its great, get it. I have the race center pipe and even then its quite mild (almost stock) until 4k. At 6k it starts sounding rather racy and 7k is an almost perfect sound to me for these cars.

[BoBo]

I picked up my car today, I recently had my transmission replaced.My tranny went bad a week ago, it was still shifting fine, however, it made some loud whining noises. I dipped into my boost fund, but it was worth it. With 109k on the replacement transmission, the shifting was vastly improved even before I had transmission problems.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02491_zps300d85b0.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02491_zps300d85b0.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

FlyinMiata packed everything nicely!!!
x2 Tophats
FM STB
FM Master Cylinder Brace
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02544_zps190b5f17.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02544_zps190b5f17.jpg.html)
Will post more picks after install.

[BoBo]

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02546_zps45671950.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02546_zps45671950.jpg.html)
Put the two bars together and the FM (stb) looked great!!!
Master Cylinder Brace
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02549_zps1f4762f7.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02549_zps1f4762f7.jpg.html)

Top-Hats to freshen up the suspension
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02550_zps57059d40.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02550_zps57059d40.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Moroso coolant tank. My OEM coolant tank had crud stuck inside it, so why not replace it with some durable bling. The fitment was not exactly perfect, but some minor dremel trimming should fix it. I will talk more about the Moroso unit as soon as I get a chance to post a review.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02530_zps2b68bc33.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02530_zps2b68bc33.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I received the Technafit brake lines this morning. I gotta wait until the "Super Storm" dies down before installing though.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02551_zps958bb2df.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02551_zps958bb2df.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

The FM springs has finally arrived!
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02552_zps0980181f.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02552_zps0980181f.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

My Miata is officially retired from being a commuter car. The rest of it's remaining life will be used for HPDE and mountain runs. I cannot wait to have my 96 re-painted and restored.

Checkout my new commuter car! 2.5L 5 cylinder 6sp Tiptronic. I love the heated seats.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/00O0O_dpUIX9CUsMy_600x450_zps15d86f34.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/00O0O_dpUIX9CUsMy_600x450_zps15d86f34.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I just finished installing the front set FM springs. I like how it's not loose like the Eibach pro kits once installed. It's good to know nothing will come loose under full droop.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/FMspringwithBilsteinHD_zpsd0f864d5.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/FMspringwithBilsteinHD_zpsd0f864d5.jpg.html)
It's amazing how these Monotube shocks can last. It still looks and rides nice like the first day I got it, even after 20k of hard driving on bumpy roads.

[atank]

Thats why I love Bilstein's they just keep working!

[BoBo]

The roll bar was shipped to me nicely packaged!
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02593_zps1vuzqsgf.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02593_zps1vuzqsgf.jpg.html)



Finishing up on my Rollbar install. An angle drill, angle attachment for a drill, or a 12" bit makes the drilling part easier on the back plates.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/RB3_zpsrffort5b.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/RB3_zpsrffort5b.jpg.html)

I used Montego Blue (M8) touch up paint on the sheet metal that I cut to make room for the rear legs of the Hard Dog Hard Bar Sport.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Roll%20bar%20install%201_zpsgria4tlj.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Roll%20bar%20install%201_zpsgria4tlj.jpg.html)
My next mod should be HD door bars & BF-frog arms.

[BoBo]

Recent pics of the Roadster:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Side%20view%20with%20FM%20springs_zpst1skuxag.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Side%20view%20with%20FM%20springs_zpst1skuxag.jpg. html)
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Front%20view%20with%20FM%20springs_zpssioszkp1.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Front%20view%20with%20FM%20springs_zpssioszkp1.jpg .html)

[BoBo]

Summer break so I decided to replace some old coolant hoses:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02637_zpsg8rvxhuy.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02637_zpsg8rvxhuy.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

I bought a driver side door shell a while back and I finally decided to install it today. The paint on the donor door might not perfectly match the paint on the entire car. However, the donor door has far less dents and I'm trying to avoid body fillers as much as possible. I'm still debating whether to shoot the car myself with M8 Urethane base coat/ clear coat.

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02643_zpsucys9e0e.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02643_zpsucys9e0e.jpg.html)

I was able to finish the install by the end of today. The old door had a long crease with 4 dents, so here is the new door:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02660_zpsxi87zciu.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02660_zpsxi87zciu.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

My original trunk was all dented up with the clear coat peeling off. I waited and waited... finally I found a replacement trunk from a wrecked 97 Montego Blue.

Picture of the old trunk:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Old%20trunk_zpshntouprm.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Old%20trunk_zpshntouprm.jpg.html)

Picture of the replacement trunk:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/New%20trunk_zpsc9k4afsw.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/New%20trunk_zpsc9k4afsw.jpg.html)

And another picture after I buffed out the trunk to get rid of the yellow crap:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/Buffed%20out%20trunk_zpsr3lw9eft.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/Buffed%20out%20trunk_zpsr3lw9eft.jpg.html)
My goal is to replace the dented parts of the body before the paint job.

[BoBo]

Got me a Racing Beat Elbow Intake.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02700_zpss1kcejae.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02700_zpss1kcejae.jpg.html)

[Slampen]

If you want something done right, you gotta do it yourself. I, luckily, had blue silicone on hand, and it even matched my paint LoL.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/rustproofing_zps500206dc.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/rustproofing_zps500206dc.jpg.html)

Nice work.

I would expect bigger washers.

[BoBo]

Front tires came today:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DZ102_zpsnefxjce0.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DZ102_zpsnefxjce0.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

My budget soft top came today. As you can see on the picture below my soft top w/ glass is falling apart.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02705_zpstxxwacl7.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02705_zpstxxwacl7.jpg.html)

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02707_zpsicllfvgs.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02707_zpsicllfvgs.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Got me a better looking fuel lid. The OP brushed some touch up paint on my old lid.
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02708_zps8o8sc8e6.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02708_zps8o8sc8e6.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Finally installed the Sierra top:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02776_zpshq5r5w1k.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02776_zpshq5r5w1k.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

Installed some Kicker Speakers:
http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02848_zpsfrwesuqa.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02848_zpsfrwesuqa.jpg.html)

[BoBo]

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC02944_zpsu51wud1n.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC02944_zpsu51wud1n.jpg.html)

Looking to do some maintenance:
Gates Timing Belt kit
Gates Water Pump & gaskets
Ngk Plugs
Mann Oil Filter
Mazda Rad hoses
Mazda front crank & cam seals
FM crank tool & cam tool.

[BoBo]

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu129/MR2SW21/96%20miata/DSC03014_zpsp4ttbgpb.jpg (http://s640.photobucket.com/user/MR2SW21/media/96%20miata/DSC03014_zpsp4ttbgpb.jpg.html)
I finally installed my OPL rad. I just need that engine rebuild & Boost.