This won't be so much of a build thread, as a re-build thread. I don't think there will be many mods made to the car, just repairs for the most part.

So on Thursday I picked up a 92 Miata. 130,000 miles. Only 2 adult owners. It was fully loaded with all the options from the factory in 92 including power windows, cruise, power antenna. Even has a factory hardtop that it came with from the factory. The ONLY aftermarket equipment is a full Aerodyne turbo setup with a intercooler and full gauges along with Borla exhaust. This was apparently installed in the mid 90's.

The big question is, what does it need, right? Well, it threw a rod and put it through the oil pan. I have a 92 engine in my garage that was waiting for a project, so it looks like I have my work cut out for me! Will also see a new clutch and likely an aluminum flywheel. Otherwise, it will remain a total sleeper.

Pics to follow of the entire ordeal!

Buying more cars? Weren't you trying to get rid of 2-seater cars? lol

Yeah, yeah... I figured someone would give me a hard time.

It was a sweet deal on a cool car that I just couldn't pass up. A turbo'd hard-top car will be a blast. With minimal mods it will be a cool sleeper. Will see what it does. Might need an LSD to get the power to the ground.

It will definitely be a fun car. How much did you pay for it with a blown motor?

Cheap... It was also part of a divorce sale and parked on the street where the city said move it. Cash talks as does a truck/trailer to take it home.

Some times, those are the best deals. Sounds like a good grab.

So I snapped a bunch of pics this evening. Also started tearing into the engine. So far removed the radiator, air cleaner, coil, CAS, intake manifold, intake tubes, radiator hoses, alternator, PS pump, belts. Also got most of the turbo removed, but there are some bolts that I can't figure out how to get off. Will look at it later in the week.

More pics.

And lastly, the hardest to find hole in the side of the oil pan. It is hidden behind the passenger motor mount.

A little JB Weld will fix that. Oh wait, I forgot this wasn't the Chevy forum.

After getting the turbo completely removed, another problem showed it's face. This might require a little duct tape along with the JB.

Good news is that I got the head removed, and it appears to be in good shape to store for a later project, and I got the engine pulled out. Time to move parts over to the engine that awaits.

Head still good? Can you just toss another bottom end in there and be good?

Good luck with the build. Miatas are awesome cars.

looks like fun stuff.

erod550 wrote:Head still good? Can you just toss another bottom end in there and be good?

The head appears to be fine, but did contact the piston after the rod broke. I actually already have a spare engine. Will be dropping it in after I go through it all and replace all seals and new clutch. Done the same job before, just never on a turbo car. Adds a bit more complexity.