Timing belt

Probably a dumb question:  I’ve got an R-reg 1600 mark 1 MX5 and my daughter has an R-reg 1600 mark 2.  They have both done around 50,000 now and we think they are both on the original belt.  Both have only partial service histories - often home serviced. 

Should we change the belts now (especially in view of their age), and is it OK to use a recommended non-Mazda man?  I noticed a comment about only changing the tensioner if it is noisy/rough but I’m inclined to include it with the new belt to get it over with.

Thanks Melvyn B

 I’d be getting it done

By all means use a non-Mazda mechanic, as long as they are competent - it’s not a difficult job if they are.

Belt http://www.mx5parts.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/215

MK2 kit http://www.mx5parts.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/216

You might want to consider the water pump while everything is apart

MK1 http://www.mx5parts.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/889