mx5cartalk.com

So I just busted the window winder cable in my import NA. It turns out there were no Australian delivered MX5s with manual windows, so I assume I'll get a blank stare from mazda parts if I ask for a replacement cable.

Does anyone know if the cables for the electric windows are the same as for the manual windows? It seems likely ..

Also, inside the winder mechanism there's a large clockspring. Any suggestions on whether/how this should be tensioned in reassembly?

Thanks!

not sure if anything is interchangeable as from memory the regulators are different & the manual system weighs more.

i've heard this "the manual system weighs more" line on this forum a few times now. i can assure you that it does not. when i did the conversion to manual in my car, i held both items in my hands and there was no need to weigh them to check the difference, the manual system was noticeably lighter. i think it's another case of someone saying it once, then someone else repeating it, and so on and after a wile it has become accepted as "fact" that the manual system is heavier.

to address the original problem, yeah i doubt you'd have much luck with the local mazda dealer. but all is not lost. all the parts for the manual windows are available from mx5parts.co.uk

So, no shared components?

yeah , not interchangebale as the electric cables are longer.

just looking at the mx5parts website i can't find the manual cables. it looks like you have to buy the whole assembly!

Tks for the useful pics - I should've revisited the old thread then I would have seen Fatty's other response to the original suggestion!

Thanks everyone for the info & pics. By printing out and laying over string it looks like one of the electric cables is longer and one is the same, and I think its the one thats broken, so I'll check prices with mazda tomorrow.

mazdatenfive, pm'd you about the winders.