An annoying tick?
- Details
- Category: Engine
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 215
Whats ticking ?
A very common mx5 problem is the development of a nasty ticking sound from the top end of the engine. Usually the first signs of this are when started from cold, but similarly the problem can be non-existent when cold, but appear after the engine has been given a good workout.
99% of the time the problem can be put down to the Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLA's) which are used in place of a more common solid lifter with shims (as found in the later mk2 cylinder heads).
The noise is not a real problem to the car, but can become a huge problem for the owner as it can make your pride and joy sound like an old wreck.
Cleaning HLA's
- Details
- Category: Engine
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 102
So here's a little guide to hydraulic lash adjuster cleaning.
Take 1 set of filthy hla's all placed in the same order they were removed from the head (be careful to keep them in the same order as they MUST go back in the correct location):
Unblocking the Soft-top drain holes
- Details
- Category: Maintenance
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 225
Part of every service for an MX5 should be to keep the soft-top drains clear.
If this is not done the result is rather messy because rain water will eventually end up in the cabin floor soaked up in the carpet underlay and even can fill up the body sills. So if you hear water sloshing about as you brake or corner the first thing to do is unblock the soft-top drains.
Caliper Maintenance
- Details
- Category: Maintenance
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 188
Many new and reconditioned rear calipers are sold because owners or mechanics damage the calipers as they renew the brake pads. This happens because they are unfamiliar with the design and push back the pistons with a G-clamp. The correct procedure is to wind the calipers back with the adjuster located at the very back of the caliper.
Cleaning HLA's
- Details
- Category: Maintenance
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 110
So here's a little guide to hydraulic lash adjuster cleaning.
Take 1 set of filthy hla's all placed in the same order they were removed from the head (be careful to keep them in the same order as they MUST go back in the correct location):
MK1 Diagnostic Fault Codes
- Details
- Category: Maintenance
- Written by MrChrome
- Hits: 99
How to run the diagnostics on a Mazda MX5 MK1
Some of these codes are common with MK2s BUT haven’t checked them yet.
There are a few things you need before you start:
- A jumper – this can be as simple as a paper clip
- An LED – ideally one you can actual see
- The ability to count! If you can’t count then you shouldn’t be trying this!
MK2 98>00 Headlight Earth Maintenance
- Details
- Category: Maintenance
- Written by Nick Bailey
- Hits: 81
One common problem with the MK2 MX5 is caused by the headlight earthing blocks. They corrode causing a bad earth which will make your headlights dim and often can cause the bulb connectors to overheat and melt.
The solution is to keep the earth blocks in good condition and the connections clean, but the location is less than ideal for easy access and preventative maintenance as they are hidden underneath the headlights and require the lights to be removed for access to the earths.