I'm thinking about buying a Miata as a track toy. I've been looking at several and found a 92 that's really clean on the outside, the interiors in decent shape and it drives well. It's recently had a new(used) engine put in and a brand new top,paint and front brakes. The only thing that makes me uncomfortable is a rattle when I depress the clutch. Anyone know what the problem could be?

 

Most likely clutch bearing (throwout I think?). Mine had that come up a few weeks after buying it.

This is a rough list of what you'll want to replace.

• Clutch (depends on mileage...but you're on MT.net...)
• Flywheel (resurface at least)
• Pilot bearing
• Throwout bearing
• Rear main seal
• Transmission front/rear seals
• New fluids

Disclaimer: I've only ever done one clutch job, and I took the 'remove eng/trans from car' route. With an engine crane, really not a big deal...took me 4 days (one day for understanding my manuals had the incorrect firing order), but I also did a lot of other repairs.

I would recommend doing a LOT of searching if you're new to this sort of thing. PROTIP: load up google, use one of the following search terms:

• site:miataturbo.net clutch noise rattle
• site:miata.net clutch noise rattle

Good luck!

 

How bad is the rattle? Slightly noticeable with the top/windows down? Bag of marbles in a washing machine?