mx5cartalk.com

Hey guys,
Hoping this is in the right spot. I have a 2004 SE that has unfortunately run into a bit of trouble and is probably in need of a new motor. I am quite sure that finding a factory BP-T engine will be close to impossible, so I need some advice on where to go from here. As far as I know my options are:
1) Find a naturally aspirated engine and just leave the turbo disconnected
2) Find a naturally aspirated engine and do a turbo conversion
3) Find a compatible turbo engine. If this is an option, what would be a suitable compatible engine?

If anyone can help me out here it would be a great help!

Cheers,
Chris

There's at least one SE motor for sale on this forum at the moment:
Mark in Melb: viewtopic.php?f=44&t=71582
Worth also checking with/ PMing Boyracer (Lou) in Syd:
memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=83

The SE engine is simply a regular old BP block, so any block from any 1.8 MX5 will be fine to use, existing turbo gear will all bolt up.
The only potential issues would be sump (reuse your current one), and the compression ratio, i'm not sure if the SE shares compression with the 98-00 models, or the 00-05 models (while not a big issue, keeping the same compression ratio means you can also keep the current ECU and tune)

The head was the same as used on the 98-00 NB8A engine, from memory with different cam specifications though.

The only other issue I can think is rego details.
From memory in Vic you aren't allowed to install an engine that is older than the vehicle model (EPA crap) so you may be limited to a 2003 (or whenever the SE came out) or newer block.



First off i'd be finding what's wrong with the current engine, so you can plan around what parts are still good (ie: using the SE head on a replacement block)

SE engines come up semi-regularly on here, and I'm sure Automotive+ would have/can import one if it's urgent. The SE doesn't use the BP-T like the Familia GT-X.

The NB Blocks don't have the factory holes for the coolant/oil feeds. The SE sump is different so you'll need to swap that over, and reuse the SE head. For absolute cheap repairs, use a NA8 block with crankshaft, pistons and rods, and swap everything from the SE over, including oil pump...

Thanks so much for all the replies, this has given me plenty to work with.

I am still learning about cars, so you guys have been a big help!