BlackBerriesAndThinkPads

Searched, no luck. I know most of you guys DIY.

I know Flyin' Miata used to, can't find on their website anymore. Only other company I've found is MiataCage. SNS Mazda Parts had some listed on their Facebook page but not sure if they have any more as I haven't heard back from them, plus not sure how reputable they are.

No, I don't have the time or trust my welding skills to do it myself.

Can someone point me in the right direction? I'm assuming Spec Miata racers must have a go-to source, at least the ones that don't do it themselves?

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

Welding isn't necessary for a NA rack.

And FWIW, mine has been depowered for over 10 years and all I did was completely drain it and loop the lines.

hornetball

iTrader: (4)

^^ This. Don't make it harder than it is. For a little bit neater install, you can install these -- basically the same thing as looping after draining:

https://www.advanced-autosports.com/...steering-plugs

Savington

iTrader: (31)

If you haven't removed the internal seal, you need to loop the lines.

hornetball

iTrader: (4)

Nah. It's drained. Plenty of compressible air in there.

Savington

iTrader: (31)

Welded pinion is basically the same as a non-welded pinion

Poly bushings are basically the same as rubber bushings

6-speed is basically the same as a 5-speed

1.6L is basically the same as a 1.8L

Looped lines are basically the same as plugs

Eddie346

skylinecalvin

iTrader: (2)

Here's a post i saved regarding an alternative to welding.
https://www.miataturbo.net/suspensio...depower-96524/

Joe Perez

iTrader: (8)

I assume you're referring to the rubber accordion type boots which go over the inner tie rod ends? Any Mazda dealership parts counter should be able to get them for you.

I've not heard of any generic replacement that's commonly known, though off- road shops use a lot of this style of boot, and you might be able to rummage through their inventory and find one that's close enough to work along with some RTV silicone and hose clamps.

BlackBerriesAndThinkPads

You must like it loose and sloppy then. Condoms aren't necessary for dirty hookers either.

Civics are basically the same as Miatas.

Thanks, I will be doing this.

Where can one find a good price on a properly rebuilt PS rack? Miata is my DD, so need to buy an extra rack.

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

If you are going to end up with a spare, just get one from the junkyard for next to nothing and do the work yourself.

If you are lazy or incapable you can get any Spec Miata shop in your area to do the work for you.

wowy

psreynol

I recall using some bolts from my 5 speed to plug the ports on the rack. The bolts "you should never remove" are a perfect fit. it was some time ago, so I can't say with perfect certainty, but for those who have a busted 5 speed laying around and need plugs it is a option to investigate. The "plug kits" seemed a little expensive for my taste. I've not removed the rack to take out the seals yet because I wanted to try it before hacking up the rack. for my purposes it was sufficient and I prefer the visceral feel regardless of lap times. for me it made the car way more engaging and fun, not necessarily faster. those who have tried both techniques and attest removing the seals is beneficial is probability the right answer. also consider alignment may play a role in steering feel.

moocow

Miata Cage will do it for you if there are no local shops. I'll second Sixshooter, you're better off going to pick n pull and getting a spare rack and doing it yourself following MotoIQ's directions. Both of these are hits 2 and 3 if you use Google.
I haven't gotten to swapping in my depowered rack (just looped lines), but the time and cost of the press + welding + spare rack + alignment is very high for those few degrees of play that the spool valve gives.

themonkeyman

Time to check that thread again, pinning not a viable option, pins break. Nobody's yet broken a properly welded one.

And like Savington implied, yes welding is very necessary.

skylinecalvin

iTrader: (2)

Ya, Emilio updated the post after I made my comment. I'm guessing he saw me reference it and then updated it.