97 Exhaust issues..

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
2

Hi i have a 97’ Mk1 mx5 with the longest 475mm cat fitted…

And i am looking to replace my  exhaust asap… But i am having issues with finding exhaust that are made to fit that length of cat (they are generally all designed to fit either 90 330mm cats or later 95 cars with the 440mm cat)

So my question is… If i was to replace the CAT as well as the exhaust could i get a shorter 440mm cat fitted and a new cat back exhaust… on the car?

Or is the downpipe also different and the hanging / mounting points going to be a problem?? Thanks i advance

3

I have the EXACT same questions. If the cat is swappable with the 440mm item then thats the problem solved - but aftermarket systems compatible with the 475mm cat are few and far between… :frowning:

4

 I had a Classic for a short time. It had that big cat on. I fitted one from mx5parts, but they don’t seem to list it now

5

The downpipe is different. Hangers are the same as for other Mk1s, except that one midpipe hanger was deleted… Used 94-95 manifolds are easily available cheaply ; but Roadster ones don’t have an EGR tube (plus need a 375mm cat). Early type downpipe is £140 new. Used Roadster 1.8 downpipes are plentiful; see MX5heaven. If you fit this, you can then fit a 375mm cat, which was made for 1.6 and 1.8s. I have no idea though how this will work on emissions, though 96 Roadsters with short cats have no problems passing the cat test.

6

Thats useful info, thanks.

I get the impression that even some specialists aren’t aware of all the different OEM exhaust setups.

I think I will go somewhere reputable for a custom cat-back system as they aren’t too pricey and I bloody hate working on exhausts as I always manage to shear bolts and hurt myself generally!

7

I have the same set-up, i got an Larini cat-back system about a year or so ago from eBay just bolted striaght on.   Mind you i didn’t fit it but i had to shop around.

There are some out there ??

8

 Give andrew at autolink a ring ,i’m sure he will be able to help.

Regards

9

 I’ll give Autolink a bell when I’m ready to buy.

I still haven’t been able to confirm if its

a) The cat and downpipe that need changing or

b) The cat, downpipe and manifold need changing.

I think I’d like to convert to the more common 375mm or 440mm setup purely for availability of aftermarket and replacement parts, although a nice stainless cat-back is definitely on the shopping list.

10

I’d really appreciate it if you’d keep us updated with your progress and what possible solutions you come accross. I’ve been having a similar problem finding a suitable exhaust.