Mazda Miata valvetrain noise

[LSVTEC 91 Civic]

I just test drove a '97 Miata the other day, and I'm getting ready to pick it up tomorrow.

From what I've read, the valvetrain noises in the Miata motors are normal. Is there any type of oil that quiets this noise down a bit? It is pretty noisy mainly on startup...

 

[Drew99GT]

You may want to try a few different oil filters if the noise is mainly at startup. I've found that oils high in moly make my engine quieter; Havoline 10w30 specifically.

 

[oily boyd]

The generally accepted fix for the early year cars (90-91) is to run 5w30 oil year round (Manual calls for various weights depnding on ambient temp).

Not sure if it applies to 1997 but a place to start.

FWIW, I used Havoline 5w30 plus Mazda filter on my 1990 with excellent results - no valve ticking.

Here is a website that you will want to refer to, especially the tech section:

Miata.net

At first glance, there may seem to be a lot of TSB's and fixes for the Miata but these are enthusiasts.

Congratulations, you are buying one of the most fun AND bullet proof cars on the market.

 

[brianl703]

quote:

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Originally posted by Drew99GT:
You may want to try a few different oil filters if the noise is mainly at startup.

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There should be a readily-available Motorcraft filter which fits that engine. It'll probably have a silicone anti-drainback valve.

 

[LSVTEC 91 Civic]

How about Mobil 1 0w-40 or GC (If I can find the green)

 

[Winston]

Try a filter with synthetic media. Mobil 1, Pure 1, Fram XG/X2.

 

[mechtech]

Some of that noise is from the injectors opening and closing.

 

[GeaugaFletcher]

Mobil 1 0w-40 does pretty well in my '97.