Clarify Timing Belt issue

[franjae]

Hi all,

Been reading here that the timing belt is best replaced within 5 years or 100K kms, whichever comes first. Also read that the MX5 engine is a non-interference engine, meaning that the pistons will not crash into the valves.

That being the case, there is no danger other than the possibility of being stranded if it breaks. The belt will probably last 100K kms, so why not wait and see?

Are all MX5 engines \"non-interference\" engines??

What do you guys think?

Cheers

franjae

[SuperMazdaKart]

i think it's been said the NC model's MZR engine is interference, but those have a metal chain instead so they should last a lot lot longer

[Bevan]

If you have an MX5 between 89 and 2006, then you are correct, the only thing that will happen to you is getting stranded.

[franjae]

Glad to hear the timing belt issue is not as scary as I first thought, at least in an MX5 !

All cars should be made this way, or have a chain instead of a belt.

Thanks guys!

franjae

[NMX516]

Chains can break too though ;)

[GP]

Chains sap more power, They need Lubrication, More difficult to replace, cost alot more, last the same amount of k's and if one breaks can cause a lot of problems.
Can't think of any drawbacks to a belt