Winter Update

It has been a couple months since I have had anything post-worthy as far as Miata-related activities go. I have been busy with school assignments, work obligations, and holiday traveling, so there has not been much spare time to work on the Miata. In early November, the Miata moved to our new home a few blocks away, and to a significantly smaller garage. At least its in good company, right?

After sitting for several weeks post-move, the battery had gone completely flat in the Miata. I must have left a foot well light on over the time. With a jump, I got it going again, and have not had a problem since. The never-ending unpacking in my home distracted me from putting the car away properly. I covered up the car, and the tailpipe, but hadn't gone beyond that.

Unfortunately, the Volvo has developed an overheating issue and had to go into the shop. This means that commuting duties (~46 miles each way) are on the Miata until the Volvo is back from the shop. I try and do as much of my own work as possible. Completing a head gasket job on a Volvo in freezing temperatures sounds punishing, so I'm leaving it to my indie shop to sort out.

I would not mind driving the Miata in the cold, if it was not for the threat of snow. The ruined soft top was not holding together, so I devised a temporary repair to get me through until I'm able to install a new one.

Using the most basic in materials, I was able to get the window to stay in place enough to prevent weather from entering and most heat escaping. It's embarrassing, but at least you cannot see it from the outside of the car.The awful evidence of the failed top remains in the form of stubborn duct tape adhesive.

I had promised to post some photos of the repaired rocker panel sections.

Other than the dirt from the road and rain, I think it looks pretty good. 

Maaco in Keyport, NJ has been doing business with my auto glass company for some time, so they took good care of this repair. After welding in repair panels for the rusted portion, the area was smoothed and the  rocker panels were completely resprayed. I'm pleased.

Now that the corrosion is dealt with, I can turn my attention to the next items on my agenda for this car. Once the Volvo repairs are completed, I will start preparing to give the Miata some service. I plan to address the top at this time as well. My rough list is already starting to add up.

-Replace Convertible Top

-Replace Exhaust Manifold Gasket and hardware

-Inspect Exhaust System for additional leaks

-New seals around windows on L&R

-Replace Accessory Belts & check A/C idler pulley

-Replace Timing Belt, Idler, Tensioner, and water pump

-Check oil seals and replace if necessary

-Replace thermostat and coolant hoses

-Replace brake hoses and caliper bleeder screws

-Check all suspension components for wear and begin replacing bushings.

If the exhaust manifold or head pipe requires any attention, I'll likely install a header in place of them. 

I'll be driving the Miata to and from work, where we have a large heated work space, so there is a distinct possibility that I could begin some of this work before warmer weather is here, time permitting. 

More updates will be posted as they come!