Fitting 99-02 Hardtop to 03-04 Car

[MrSam]

Hi All

Has anyone here fitted a hardtop originally from an early NB (99-02) to a late NB (03-04)? I've read that the striker plates and latches were revised for the 2003 model, so to make a hardtop from an earlier car fit, you have to change the hardtop latches (or just a component in the latch) for a later model equivalent (side latches might not require a change, as you can always install the earlier model side striker plates to your car. Windshield strikers probably not so much).

Does anyone know what parts are needed to make this work?

Sam.

[93_Clubman]

Wasn't aware of that difference on the ADM 03-04 NB8D, but there may be, if so the following should detail it, although it's USDM oriented: https://www.miata.net/garage/hardtop/

[MrSam]

Thanks for the link, according to that page the parts list needed fit the hardtop by replacing the hardtop latches with the newer style, and use older style side striker plates is:
Parts Part Numbers QTY
Left Old-Style Striker Plate NA02-R1-361D 1
Right Old-Style Striker Plate NA02-R1-371D 1
Striker Plate Screws 9983-40-820B 4
Frankenstein Bolts NA01-R1-38XB 2
Left Redesigned Latch ND30-R1-320 1
Right Redesigned Latch ND30-R1-310 1
Latch Screws NC10-69-9W6 6

Looks like it's time to call a few dealers to find out if this is relevant to ADM models, and see if the parts are available. Please jump in if anyone has a good recommendation for a Melbourne based Mazda dealer/parts department.

[beavis]

They will bolt on fine.
The difference exists, but its minor and shouldn't stop the top from fitting right up.

Unless your car is missing the frankenstein bolts or side strikers near the seats, you certainly won't need that full parts list you've posted.

[hks_kansei]

Worth noting the side latches aren't needed either.

I haven't had any on mine for maybe 8 years now, hardtop has been fine through a season of motorkhana, bumpy gravel roads, and whatever else I've thrown at it.

[bruce]

It should just fit!