One more Miata motor install

[Toyanvil]

After 36 years of running a Datsun A14 & trans in my Ser II it is time to go modern. After reading the threads by lobo1625, Msmoorenburg and Robertf on installing a 1.6 Miata motor & trans I have decided to do it. The Datsun running gear has been great and looked the part, but it's time for modern EFI, 5 speed and more power. I pick-up a 1.6 with 5 speed and all the stock wiring. I have the wiring done, and the motor sounds good. My plan is to get all the parts together and then install it this summer. My car is a daily driver, so I don't want it down for long. If anyone is thinking about doing this I have been documenting everything, including the wiring.
Here is the Datsun

The day I picked-up the 1.6

How it sits today, yes it starts up and runs on the sub frame.

 

[Toyanvil]

Here is the harness when I started.

All cleaned up.

I added a "check engine light" to the diagnostic port.

 

[Toyanvil]

I changed the by-pass line that goes from the water pump to the heater core, now it goes from the water pump to the back of the head.
All done and powder coated.

Next thing to do is replace the timing belt, water pump, clutch and the small rubber plug on the back of the head.

 

[msmoorenburg]

lookin good As my alpine built is winding down I've got another in the works

 

[robertf]

welcome to the light side

 

[260Alpine]

The MGB GT build would be good on the MGExperience and BritishV8 boards also!

 

[Toyanvil]

I got the fuel pump adapter done today and ready to weld into my tank. This will mount the stock Miata fuel pump and sender into the Sunbeam fuel tank.

I used short set screws and welded them in to cap the ends.

 

[Toyanvil]

Gasket cut out.

 

[Toyanvil]

Replaced timing belt, water pump and front seal. Motor runs great and ready to go in.
Here's a video of it running.
http://toyanvil.smugmug.com/Hobbies/Miata-Motor-Trans/i-d9kXQbn/A

 

[Series6]

I'm going to make some popcorn and watch that again. Nice!

 

[Jay Laifman]

Go Tony!! Just don't change those front orange turn signal bulbs!!!

 

[Toyanvil]

Hello Jay

 

[Toyanvil]

Made a plug wire cover this weekend, still need to weld in the Mazda.

 

[Gitnrusty]

That looks like a really tidy install. Cleaner than a factory job. I see modern hot rod influence there. Congratulations.

 

[pcmenten]

And I like the Sunbeam badge on the oil fill tube. It's subtle.

 

[Toyanvil]

Thank you guys
I order new Letters from Rick at SS. I like the aluminum and chrome look, I hope when I am done welding the Mazda in it will match. If not I think I will powder coat it silver.

 

[Toyanvil]

I removed the Datsun motor & trans. Here they are side by side, the fun begins.

 

[Toyanvil]

I got the motor & trans mocked-up today, if I have time tomorrow I plan on welding up the mounts. I did remove the stock mounts off the cross-member this gives me more room for the new mounts.

 

[Toyanvil]

I got the motor mounts built today, I still need to pull the motor and finish welding up the frame mounts and paint everything.

 

[Toyanvil]

Transmission cross member all done.