Bought a '99 with 69,xxx miles. Two weeks in, rod knock sets in. I have a '94 block that needs rings, just need to know if there is a best value solution. I can get OEM rings from FM or Mazda Motorsports, just wondering if there is a solution that works as well for less.
Hmmm.. Don't know Miata very well. Can you install new rod bearing while the engine is in the car? That might be the "best" value...
Not easily. Pulling the pan with the engine in the car means dropping the subframe, and it's an ugly job.
I can't see a way to use what you have that would work well. You could TRY swapping bearings from one car to another, or hope the ring gap from the 99 will work in the 1994 block if you leave the crank in there. But you're rolling the dice. I think the best risk/effort/cost solution involves new rod bearings on the '99.
More importantly, you have a 1999 engine with relatively low mileage and internal noises. Check your crank end play. Those engines have had trouble with thrust bearings. And the first thing that takes damage is the cam journals.
My '02 started knocking about a week after I replaced the timing belt. Turns out I forgot to tighten the water-pump pulley bolts and that is where the noise was coming from.
Thrust bearings were fixed at 37,000 miles. Possible that they have gone again, though I would hope less likely. Awaiting word from a friend if his hoist is available so that I can get the engine out for a more thorough examination.
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