Mazda MX-5 Miata (1997+). Manual - part 52

Fig. 3: Left Side Of Vehicle 

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997 MAZDA MX-5 Miata

  

Fig. 4: Dash 

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997 MAZDA MX-5 Miata

  

1997-98 ENGINES

1.8L 4-Cylinder 

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION 

Engines can be identified by engine model and number. See ENGINE IDENTIFICATION CODE . On Miata, 
engine model and number are stamped on flange at upper right rear of cylinder block deck, as viewed from 
flywheel. On Protege, engine model and number are stamped on flange at upper left rear of cylinder block deck, 
as viewed from flywheel. 

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION CODE 

ADJUSTMENTS 

VALVE CLEARANCE ADJUSTMENT 

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 

FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE & PRIMING 

Releasing Pressure (Miata) 

Locate and remove fuel pump relay from under left side of dash, near steering column. Start engine and allow to 
stall. After engine stalls, attempt to restart engine to ensure no residual pressure exists. Turn ignition off and 
reinstall fuel pump relay. When disconnecting fuel hoses, cover connection with shop rag to catch fuel leakage. 
To avoid excessive cranking after servicing, prime fuel system before starting engine. 

Releasing Pressure (Protege) 

NOTE:

For repair procedures not covered in this article, see ENGINE OVERHAUL 
PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

Application

Code

Miata & Protege (1.8L DOHC)

BP

NOTE:

Valve clearance is not adjustable. Some Hydraulic Lash Adjuster (HLA) noise 
may occur during engine start-up. Noise should disappear after engine reaches 
normal operating temperature. If noise persists and oil level is okay, change 
engine oil. If oil change does not reduce noise, check with manufacturer for 
modified HLA.

NOTE:

For reassembly reference, label all electrical connectors, vacuum hoses and 
fuel lines before removal. Also place mating marks on engine hood and other 
major assemblies before removal.

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 ENGINES 1.8L 4-Cylinder

  

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 ENGINES 1.8L 4-Cylinder

  

Remove rear seat cushions. Disconnect fuel pump connector. Start engine and allow to stall. After engine stalls, 
attempt to restart engine to ensure no residual pressure exists. Turn ignition off and reconnect fuel pump 
connector. When disconnecting fuel hoses, cover connection with shop rag to catch fuel leakage. To avoid 
excessive cranking after servicing, prime fuel system before starting engine. 

Priming System 

Ensure fuel system is closed. Connect jumper wire between F/P and GND terminals of data link connector. See 
Fig. 1 . Turn ignition on for about 10 seconds and check for fuel leaks. Turn ignition off and disconnect jumper 
wire. 

Fig. 1: Identifying Data Link Connector Terminals (Typical) 
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP. 

COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING 

1. Slowly pour coolant into radiator at a rate of 1.1 qt. (1.0L) per minute maximum until coolant is level 

with filler port. Fill coolant reservoir to "F" mark. Securely install radiator cap. Start engine.  

2. Operate engine at idle until normal operating temperature is reached. If coolant level warning light 

illuminates during warm-up, turn engine off and check drain plug and coolant hoses for leaks. Operate 
engine at 2200-2800 RPM for 5 minutes. Stop engine and allow to cool.  

3. Repeat steps 1) and 2). Check coolant level. If engine coolant is not level with filler neck, repeat entire 

procedure. If engine coolant is level with filler neck, fill reservoir to "F" mark.  

CAUTION: If engine overheats during procedure, system contains excessive air. Stop 

engine and allow it to cool, then repeat step 1).

 

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 

1997-98 ENGINES 1.8L 4-Cylinder