Is the early 1.6 a non-interference engine?

[patmahe]

As per title really, thinking of tackling the timing belt myself, would be my first so would feel more comfortable if I thought I can't mess it up too badly

[anonymous-user]

As far as I know all mk1 engines are non-interference (and always rotate the engine by hand before trying to start it anyway to see if it all turns correctly , lines up again and that nothing sticks) but with the early 1.6 what you need to be careful with is the crank pulley bolt / keyway and bolt torque etc. According to the article here you can leave it alone and not remove it on the earlier engine, but worth having knowledge of the issue in case you wish to check the condition of the keyway etc..:

https://www.miata.net/garage/crankshaft.html

[SebringMan]

What JSS said.

They are non interference. But if you can, leave that main pulley nut alone ; the pulley is held on by 4 smaller nuts anyway to the crank hub.

If you have to undo the large crank nut be sure to get a new bolt and to torque it to the lower of the two torque settings, preferably with a new keyway tab as well.

[VladD]

MX5 Parts sell this which may help.

Has anyone ever used one? I think my belt is overdue for a change.