[Shop-talk] mazda miata issue

[Trevor Boicey]

scott.hall at comcast.net wrote:
> so this bolt does what? it trashes the crank? I thought we'd r&r the
> plug wires, o2 sensor and erg valve first, then worry about more
> expensive things.

   Well CHECKING if this is the problem is really easy, and if it is the 
problem, then you know the solution, so might as well look at it. You'll 
know the answer before you even change the first plug wire.

   From my recollection the front of the crank has a limited contact 
area and this bolt can work itself out, which causes the crank pulley to 
wobble and destroy it's keyway and eventually cause terrible acceleration.

   The updated crank has a little more "beef" to it. Again, follow the 
links to get the real details, but that's about it.

   The current wisdom, which I follow, is never touch the bolt unless 
you HAVE to, then if you do, buy a new bolt, torque it very carefully, 
and hope for the best.