Finding a new evaporator for NA6

[93_Clubman]

Some Mazda part numbers: N007-61-J10; N001-61-J10; & NA75-61-520D

part number N007-61-J10 (genuine) is the one that I need

NA75-61-520D (genuine) is the part # used in the US, which isn't to say it's the same or a different evaporator (that remains to be seen), but it's obviously a different part #. I think N001-61-J10 is an earlier version of the other part #.

[Paolo]

I ended up finding a used evaporator.

Within the NA6 model, there was a change in evaporator models too...which is a bit of a complication if buying used.

I will have it leak-tested....which will only tell part of the story. Apparently the evaporator is constantly under much greater pressure than a leak-test can show...so it could check out ok on the bench but fail when charged with refrigerant. Fingers crossed...

I was told that the evaporator fitted to Australian delivery MX-5s of this era were fitted with a locally made unit....and that 'local' company has since shut their doors.

Ahh...the perils of living to a twilight age...

[93_Clubman]

was told that the evaporator fitted to Australian delivery MX-5s of this era were fitted with a locally made unit

IIRC, that's consistent with aka_juffa's research re ADM NA AC components generally. Did you source a local used evap or an OS one?

[Paolo]

It was a locally sourced item. Registration is due within the month so will ask mechanic to check it then.

[Paolo]

My partner's MX5 was with our mechanic yesterday. The used evaporator that I purchased last year was to be fitted.

Unfortunately, whilst the fittings are in the same position and look similar, the connectors were a slightly different size to the ones in the car.

A last-ditch 'solution' was to introduce a canister of an American product into the a/c system that is designed to stop leaks in car air conditioners (can't remember the name). It is in gaseous form and costs around $150.

There was cold air from the a/c this morning but time will tell if the system holds pressure.
If this doesn't work I am prepared to give in.

[93_Clubman]

Thanks for completing the loop with the update. Hopefully the latest fix continues to work.

[SLO_NA]

I can confirm that this part is no longer made (using Amayama) but since Mazda is phasing in their new restoration program they may start producing them again (they update the parts list every month): https://www.mazda.co.jp/carlife/classicmazda/parts/

I also managed to find the part number for the initial unit and the revised one including when the switch over happened:
N00161520 (until 1/08/1991)
N00761520 (from 1/08/1991)

However, the best option is to ring up the Mazda parts department and see if they can get it.

[93_Clubman]

Thx also, useful to know.