how can you tell whether a replacement MX5 engine is the lo

lou Girardin · Post by **lou Girardin** » Wed Jul 09, 2003 4:15 pm

I can't quote engine numbers, but look for a '92 on. The crank bolt and washer
is noticeably larger than the early ones. It's easy to tell the difference if
seen side by side.
But if they stuffed your crank, they should put new bits in it.
There's enough anecdotal evidence around to point the blame at them.

Fletch · Post by **Fletch** » Wed Jul 09, 2003 5:30 pm

What Lou says about the bolt shoulders is correct... but our British friends
have discovered an even easier way to check...

If you look at the accessory pulley on the front of the engine (the one that
drives the waterpump, alternator, and p/s or a/c if you have them)...

The old design with the weak crank has four slots about 2 inches (5 cm) long
each, around its front perimeter...

The new design with the strong crank has eight shorter slots, approx 1.25
inches (3 cm) long each, around its perimeter.

As its often hard to see the bolt with the engine in the car (but easy if your
looking at an engine out of the car), but you can always see the front of the
pulley... its just a little easier to check!

Fletch.