Waco Posted March 16, 2014 Posted March 16, 2014 So I finally decided to rebuild the motor in the Miata...after 175k very hard miles it just needs some TLC and rebuilding a motor has been on my bucket list since I was 10. On the way are: 10 pound flywheel (stock is ~22 pounds) new clutch new oil pump every seal and gasket on the motor new rings and new bearings I picked up an engine stand for cheap as well as a load leveler and a hoist. I bought the various one-off tools I'll need to do the rings and install the pistons, though they are surprisingly cheap. All in I'm at just over $600 so far thanks to deal-hunting and free shipping. With fluids, paint, and everything else I imagine I'll spend another $100-$150 or so but be left with a MUCH nicer and hopefully much happier car. While the motor is out I (and Amanda, since she's discovered that painting can be fun) will be freshening up the engine bay and cowl area. The prior owner spilled brake fluid everywhere so it's in need of a bit of love. I'm still debating on pulling the head apart since it's a reasonably fresh rebuild. If the valves look clean I'll probably leave it alone but if they're nasty I have new seals and keepers. Started a bit today... Hood off: Headlights out, cowl cleaned out: Tower brace removed and intake starting to come apart (and you can see how nasty the bay really is...the prior owner spilled brake fluid all over and ruined a lot of the paint): ...and this is why I love my wife: I'll be pulling more apart as I get parts in this week and over the next few weeks as the car becomes more and more of an empty roller. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ccokeman Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 I have rebuilt both a 289 and 302 before but am a little reluctant to take the 4.6 in the mustang down. Looking forward to the log! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Waco Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 This will be my first rebuild so I'm hoping I don't totally screw it up. I'll take pictures as I remember to. I tend to not want to take pictures when bolts are making me cranky though. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
BluePanda Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 I can provide pictures of when he's cranky...lol Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ccokeman Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 Do show those so we get the real feel of how its going. I once had a hole in my siding thanks to a thrown wrench. Another Ford problem BTW! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
cchalogamer Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 I have a "better" idea Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dr_bowtie Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 With that many miles make sure you mic the ring lands.... especially in a boosted engine the lands wear and will cause Ring Flutter under load... that and the pistons may be out of spec for Piston to wall clearance... Looking forward to the build... Frank I've done several 4.6s and 5.4 with VVT so if you have any questions.... hit me up. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Waco Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 I have a "better" idea If I wanted to spend $8k instead of $800... Also - bowtie - motor isn't boosted, and Miata motors tend to not have problems with flutter. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Onion Posted March 17, 2014 Posted March 17, 2014 I have a "better" idea If I wanted to spend $8k instead of $800... Also - bowtie - motor isn't boosted, and Miata motors tend to not have problems with fr. Nice chevy 350 here for $750. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dr_bowtie Posted March 18, 2014 Posted March 18, 2014 I have a "better" idea If I wanted to spend $8k instead of $800... Also - bowtie - motor isn't boosted, and Miata motors tend to not have problems with flutter. For some reason I keep thinking your Miata has a Turbo...... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Waco Posted March 18, 2014 Posted March 18, 2014 Nice chevy 350 here for $750. 350 Chevy == boat anchor compared to an LS series. I'm not even sure one would fit... For some reason I keep thinking your Miata has a Turbo......I like to pretend it does. Also, more parts arrived! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dr_bowtie Posted March 18, 2014 Posted March 18, 2014 ha ha.... while the LS series of engines are pretty great the 350 original small block is still pretty potent and no boat anchor... that goes to the 2nd gen LT1/LT4 engines... my 13:1 340 incher holds its own Share this post Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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