help me diagnose clutch issue
 

For the last couple of weeks, I have noticed a squealing sound coming from the central area of the car. It isn't loud, but it is there and I notice it a lot more when in traffic or pulling up next to a wall or something. By trial and error, I determined it is coming from the clutch. If I even touch the clutch pedal the sound goes away. I have a feeling this is the sqealing sound of my throw-out bearing trying to die, but I want to confirm it before I pull the transmission. I am looking for some adjustment or alternate diagnostic tips before I go much further with this. Thanks!

Miata Magazine, Spring 1991, Tip Sheet, page 14

Throw Out Bearing Noise
Many owners have mentioned a slight rattling noise at idle with the transmission in neutral and the clutch out. This comes from the throw out bearing. Most folks find that it gets worse when their air conditioning compressor is engaged due to increased idle rpms and engine vibration. In the old days, throw-out bearings were pulled away from the plate when the clutch was released. They then stopped spinning. In Mazdas these bearings are kept in constant engagement with the spinning clutch pressure plate. This design has a much longer life. However, any sloppiness in the internal bearing results in some noise.

If you have a 'chirp' instead of a rattle, some relief may come from greasing the tip of your clutch slave cylinder push rod where it meets the throw out arm. This quells the cricket-like squeaking caused be the metal to metal contact of these parts.

The rattling noises come from the throw out bearing itself. There is no cure other than replacement, and the new part will probably make the same noise. For now this goes under the category of "character."

Thanks. I will try the greasing part first and see if that fixes it. You guys are awesome.