[Miata] 1990 Blue Miata #18575

[Joe Perez]

In the '90 and '91 Miata, it is possible for the crankshaft pulley to become loose, leading to destruction of the crankshaft. This can actually happen to any car if the bolt which holds the pulley in place is improperly fitted, but the '90-'91 Miatas are more succeptable to it due to the design of the crankshaft. These engines are typically referred to as the "Short Nose" engines, and just require that a bit of extra attention be paid to this area. 

Here's a good writeup on the early crankshaft, and how to diagnose and prevent problems:
http://www.miata.net/garage/crankshaft.html

And here's a fix that some people have done to the crankshaft to repair damage after it has occured:
http://www.miata.net/garage/hsue/LoctiteCrank1.html


- Joe Perez in the Red '92

---- jeffrey winters <jeffwinters1 at hotmail.com> wrote: 
> Own a 1990 Miata MX5 (the 18575 manufactured) and have owned it for 6 + 
> years with no problems.  Currently have 32,200 miles on it. (9200 when I 
> purchased it).  Friend says motors are problem in this year.  Haven't  had 
> any problems to date.  What can I expect? or What do I need to do?  Car runs 
> and looks great. Appreciate your suggestions.  Should I upgrade to newer 
> year? Regards, Jeff Winters
> 
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