Just took the latest purchase out for a spin and I couldnt help notice the sound of water or something every time I accelerate and brake. This mainly was towards the passenger side of the car moving from front to back. I was concerned as I didnt really ever here the sound on my previous mk1. Is this definitely the fuel tank or could water be somehow trapped ??
Next question: So I cleaned the drain holes in the morning. After the 5 minute evening drive and hearing the strange sounds (above), I noticed that water was dripping (from passenger side only) at the rear corner of the sill. I looked at the drain hole at the bottom but it was completely dry. Could it be that some water go trapped of the past 2 rainy days ?
What I cant understand is that I used a long flexible aerial to unblock the drain tube which came out of the underside of the car however no water is gushing out ? How could I get to where the water is trapped ? Then again, hoping its not water after all ;(
Just saw this post and decided to go out and give it a go!
“My drain holes were plugged. I used a large, straightened paper clip to clean out the holes. They are actually more like slots, directly in the center of all four jack points. Stick one up in there and see what happens. Mine drained for a long time. Do both sides to be safe.
The official dealer “fix” for this was to take “the appropriate tool” and basically widen these slots, and then repaint any chipped areas. I think this is a bit drastic, and routine paper-clipping has done the job for me to keep them clear.
Of course, if your MAIN drain tubes are plugged, it will still keep draining into your sills. Put the top up, and then pull back the carpet on the OUTSIDE of the seat belt tower, between the seatbelt tower and the body. You’ll see the drain hole. If these become plugged, the Miata has an alternate draining system that routes the water into the door sills, where it can drain at the jack points. If they are both blocked, you get the sloshing.
One other thing, the water on your carpet inside likely came from under the door sill kick plates. If you remove these plates, you will see several holes beneath, on the top of the sill. The water in your doorsills likely drained onto your floorboard from here, so be sure to dry the area thoroughly to prevent rust.”
As you said dave… used a paper clip and sure ensure, nice clear water came gushing out. Did both sides front and back. Water was only on the passenger side though.
