DIY cambelt change:

[GPSS]

I am no mechanic, but think I have a resonable ability to unscrew stuff, I also have a decent toolkit.
How difficult is it to change a cambelt on a 1.6 UK mk1. Is it a job for an amatuer with a saturday afternoon free. Same goes for the waterpump. Cheer's

[franv8]

I did mine. If all you've done is an oil change, then may be worth a real think if you want to tackle it. If you're a little more advanced than that, be methodical and follow the manual instructions, no problem, but perhaps allow the whole day.

Also, for the cost, I'd replace the two idlers at the same time.

Good luck!

[MX-5 Lazza]

It's also a good idea to change the crank and camshaft oil-seals at the same time. You could also change the CAS o-ring while you are at it.

[GPSS]

OK, just from those two answers I think I will have to pay and have it done, wrote that post couple of hours ago when the vino first hit.
Thanks anyway gents.

[franv8]

I'll give you anotehr spin on it though - just wade in and do it, take your time. Once you tackle this you'll be more confident with some more complicated jobs. Then you can stretch yourself on the next job, before long engine rebuilds will be something you can do!

Seriously, it's not that difficult. Have you got any mechanically savvy mates who might be able to give you a hand while you do it?

[anonymous-user]

I did mine and it was very very easy, apart from one thing - getting the crank pulley bolt undone. There is no way to lock the engine and putting it in gear and holding it on the brakes didn't work so you really need to make up a crank locking tool - look at this link and scroll down to the metal tool. If you make one of these up the job will be very easy to do.

http://www.miata.net/garage/hsue/LoctiteCrank2.htm...

[franv8]

Silly question but what gear did you put it in? Top is best.

I'm racking my brains as to how I got mine off (it was a couple of years ago now) - I think I put it in gear?

[GHW]

a quick turn on the starter motor with a breaker bar on the end took care of mine - best done with the coil pack disconnected

[franv8]

GHW said:

a quick turn on the starter motor with a breaker bar on the end took care of mine - best done with the coil pack disconnected

Scary!!

[MX-5 Lazza]

franv8 said:

GHW said:

a quick turn on the starter motor with a breaker bar on the end took care of mine - best done with the coil pack disconnected

Scary!!

I've heard of that method but never seen it done.

[m4tthew]

Windy gun is the best way to get crankshaft pulley bolts off.

My snap on one doesnt even break a sweat.