Suspension on 97 Miata

[fxpthl]

OK all of you wrench-miesters,here is my question for the day: my old 97 miata seems to be hitting the tops of the struts whenever I go over even the slightest bump on the road. Since I purchased this used on Ebay, I only know that I am the 4th. owner of this great little car but without a hint as to what has been done to it mechanically. Back to my question, should I change out the shocks/springs/struts? More important, how can I find out or check on the timing belt? The vehicle now has over 164K miles on the clock and still runs strong. It does require about 1/2 quart of synthetic oil every 500 miles or so. Some of which leaks out onto the garage floor, drop by drop! This is my "mid-life" crisis car and I want it to last longer than me. Any help or suggestions would be much appreciated. By the way, I love this forum and rely on it's readers sage advice and consult.

 

[Lawrence C]

Well you can always spend $100 or less for a timing belt kit. Unless you wanna wait for your car to die out. It's not that big of a deal since our motors are non-interference.

*Also while your at it replace the valve cover gasket too.

 

[fxpthl]

Well Lawrence C, I am not that efficient or skilled or, for that matter brave enough to tackle a task like this without some serious help. You are right though about just doing to make sure. That really is the only way I can be sure. I'm going to shop around and get some estimates just see what the "real" costs would be IF I had it done by others. Thanks for your response.

 

[Lawrence C]

Also make sure to replace the water pump too.

 

[Lawrence C]

Check out Moccforums.com for local shops in SoCal.