I plan to book the 5 into WIM next week to fit new springs. One (possibly two) of mine are broken so I am going to replace all of them together and get the geometry set right too. Been meaning to get this done for some time, but engine problems always took priority (and took my wages).
What are the essential other bits I need to order from MX5Parts? I have had a look and it is all boots, bushes and top mounts to me! Since I am providing the parts to WIM, I need to give them everything they are going to need, as I don’t want a wasted journey if they are missing something. However, I also need to keep the costs down, so don’t want to buy something unnecessarily. The cost of some of the parts is quite high if you are buying 4 of them. So, assuming the shock absorbers are OK (God willing, please!) I need to know the perishable bits that always break when you take them apart and anything else that wears out and needs replacing as a matter of course.
I am going to get the standard springs and have standard road height settings (too many potholes on my way to work to mess about with style vs comfort).
Advice gratefully received, as always.
EJ
How many miles has yours done and how rusty is it? My 1996 MX5 has done 130,000 UK miles and the consequent rust has caused me problems. What I’m posting may be gobbledygook to you but bear with me…
First, The nuts securing the rear topmounts were so corroded that I could not remove them. However, this was overcome quite easily by compressing the springs whilst on the car and just undoing the upper securing nut. I’m sure Tony knows that trick. My topmounts were in good condition.
Second, The captive nut for one of the lower shock absorber bolts became uncaptive. Fixing this involved removing the lower wishbone. One of the bolts can be a pig to remove without damaging it (£11 to replace). Agian I’m sure Tony has come across this and knows how to fix it.
Third, The boots were completely perished. The general consensus is they don’t last long and don’t do much anyway.
Fourth. Two of the alignment bolts sheared. This happens quite often and on a car of your vintage they should be replaced anyway. A set costs about £24. Tony will have these and it is only a ten minute job for him.
Now for the sensible bit:- You could email your question and this answer to Tony at WIM. He is an incredibly helpful guy. He is also the absolute master of MX5 suspension with a huge amount of experience. If you can give him some idea of mileage and condition (send photos?) he can give you likely costs.
Getting an alignment done to Tony’s suggested spec (which may be different from standard - trust him) is fantastic value for money.
Not lowering the car is a sound decision in my book!
Hope this helps.