Clam shell alignment Mk3 2013 1.8 SE Roadster

Technical Area Body, Interior & Styling
1

Just seen this car for sale. 58k miles. Looks in tip top condition apart from very slight rust under one of rear wheel arches.
I just have one nagging doubt: The gap between the clam shell at one side of the car is slightly more than at the other side. Everything else seems perfectly aligned.
Should I be alarmed by this?
Thanks

2

I’d be alarmed at an MX5 with a clamshell :smiley:
Also at rust on a 2013.

3

Sorry I’m a newbie here! The dealer called it the clam shell. It’s the bit that lifts up to allow the roof to be stored under it. The rust did seem to be superficial in just a small area.

4

A clam shell is when the whole of the front or rear bodyshell lifts up together, like this: https://www.google.com/search?q=lotus+clamshell&sxsrf=ALeKk017JAN2jrjWmqcCWPSYD8XqcggAHg:1615820770719&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi-r7y4ybLvAhVxQRUIHWQBDZUQ_AUoAnoECA4QBA&biw=1920&bih=947

All the panel gaps are usually very good on these, so if it isn’t I would be wondering why.
Rust on the arches of a 2013 is not a good sign, I would make sure it gets a good inspection underneath before buying.

5

I would guess there may have been a previous impact. Rust on a 13 plate is premature, however, if previous seals have been cracked under impact it could allow moisture in and rust to form. Same logic for ill fitting panels.

Is the rust one side or both? 58k is not significant mileage.

I would be checking for other signs of a prang. Get in the boot and move the carpets.

1 Like
6

Thanks both for your sage advice. I’m going to let this one pass by.

7

For future information. The ‘clamshell’ / rear deck cover / insert own name here / is easily adjustable for a good panel gap. 4 bolts or nuts (can’t remember which) as when Mazda main dealer had fitted new motor and limiter switches to mine, they made a pigs ear of refitting the panel. I wasn’t taking it back though, if they couldn’t get the basics right! So eased the bolts/nuts just enough to allow slight movement, closed the roof and eased the panel into the correct position and then tightened again. As said though, could have been in an accident or incident.
Barrie

2 Likes
8

Thanks for the tip. I suspect this one had an accident. The dealer reckoned to sell loads of MX5s so I reckon he’d have known if it was something so simple.

9

We aren’t short of MX5s in this country, be patient and you’ll find the right one.