stop start MAZDA MX-5 1997 Factory Repair Manual

Fig. 15: Adjusting Master Cylinder Push Rod
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT & STOPLIGHT SWITCH
1. Released pedal height is measured from carpet surface, on vertical portion of firewall, to pedal pad center.
Disconnect stoplight switch electrical connector. Loosen lock nut on stoplight switch. Rotate switch away
from pedal. Loosen push rod lock nut. Rotate push rod until correct pedal height is as specified. See
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
table.
2. Adjust pedal free play. See BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY
under ADJUSTMENTS. Tighten push rod
lock nut. Tighten push rod lock nut to 18-25 ft. lbs. (24-34 N.m).
3. Rotate stoplight switch until it contacts pedal, then rotate an additional 1/2 turn. Tighten stoplight switch
lock nut to 10-13 ft. lbs. (14-18 N.m). Reconnect stoplight switch electrical connector.
4. Applied pedal height is measured from angled portion of firewall (without carpet) to pedal pad center.
Start engine. Depress brake pedal with a pressure of 132 lbs. (60 kg).
5. Measure applied pedal height. See BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
table. If distance is
not as specified, check for air in system or worn pads. Repair as necessary.
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY
ApplicationIn. (mm)
Pedal Released6.8-7.1 (171-181)
Pedal Applied (1) 3.7 (95)
(1)Minimum height.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM 1997 BRAKES Mazda - Anti-Lock
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:48:49 PMPage 24 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

1997 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS
NC4A-EL Electronic Controls
APPLICATION
TRANSMISSION APPLICATION
DESCRIPTION
The NC4A-EL series is a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. Five solenoids attached to
valve body control shift changes. Solenoids are controlled by the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
The TCM receives information from various input devices. The TCM uses this information to control following
solenoids:
Shift solenoids for transmission shifting.
Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid for torque converter clutch lock-up.
3-2 control solenoid for downshift timing control.
A HOLD switch is mounted on the shift lever. HOLD function may be activated in "D", "S" or "L" gears by
pressing HOLD button. In "L" and "S" positions, vehicle is held in selected gear and no upshift or downshift
takes place. This function is used for driving up steep inclines or for engine braking assistance when descending
steep grades. If activated in "D" position a 1-2 and 2-3 upshift is permitted when starting from a stop, but after
the 2-3 upshift the vehicle is locked in "D" until it comes to a complete stop. The 1-2 and 2-3 upshift pattern is
changed to a "short shift" specification. This function is used for starting off or driving on slippery surfaces.
Pushin
g HOLD button again deactivates system.
VehicleTransmission Model
MiataNC4A-EL
CAUTION: Vehicle is equipped with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). When
servicing vehicle, use care to avoid accidental air bag deployment. SRS-
related components are located in steering column, center console and
instrument panel. DO NOT use electrical test equipment on these circuits.
If necessary, deactivate SRS before servicing components. See AIR BAG
DEACTIVATION PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION.
CAUTION: Disconnecting battery on models equipped with anti-theft radio require
canceling of anti-theft operation. See appropriate AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION SERVICING article in TRANSMISSION SERVICING. Refer
to vehicle owner's manual to identify radio type.
NOTE: Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoid is also known as lock-up solenoid,
TCC lock-up or 4th gear solenoid.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1997 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS NC4A-EL Electronic Controls

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1997 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS NC4A-EL Electronic Controls
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:35:03 PMPage 1 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:35:38 PMPage 1 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

1. On models with rear disc brakes, depress brake pedal several times. On models with rear drum brakes,
start engine and depress brake pedal several times while vehicle is moving in reverse. Stop engine.
2. On Miata, pull parking brake lever with a force of 44 lbs. (20 kg). On all other models, pull parking brake
lever with a force of 22 lbs. (10 kg). If stroke is 7-9 notches on Miata or 5-7 notches on all others, parking
brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not as specified, raise and support rear of vehicle. Release parking
brake lever.
3. Rotate cable adjusting nut at lever end of cable, located under console cover, until stroke is within
specification. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning light illuminates when brake
lever is pulled one notch.
Millenia
1. Depress brake pedal several times. Pull parking brake lever with a force of 22 lbs. (10 kg). If stroke is 3-5
notches, parking brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not 3-5 notches, raise and support rear of vehicle.
Release parking brake lever.
2. Remove parking brake lever cover. Rotate cable adjusting nut at lever end of cable until stroke is within
specification. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning light illuminates when brake
lever is pulled one notch.
MPV (1995-96)
1. Depress brake pedal several times. Pull parking brake lever with a force of 22 lbs. (10 kg). If stroke is 3-6
notches, parking brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not as specified, raise and support rear of vehicle.
Release parking brake lever.
2. Remove adjusting nut clip and rotate cable adjusting nut at lever end of cable, located under console
cover, until stroke is within specification. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning
light illuminates when brake lever is pulled one notch.
MPV (1997)
1. Depress brake pedal several times. Pull parking brake lever with a force of 44 lbs. (20 kg). If stroke is 6-9
notches, parking brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not as specified, raise and support rear of vehicle.
Release parking brake lever.
2. Remove adjusting nut clip and rotate cable adjusting nut at lever end of cable, located under console
cover, until stroke is within specification. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning
light illuminates when brake lever is pulled one notch.
RX7
1. Depress brake pedal several times. Pull parking brake lever with a force of 22 lbs. (10 kg). If stroke is 7-
10 notches, parking brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not 7-10 notches, raise and support rear of
vehicle. Release parking brake lever.
2. Rotate cable adjusting nut at lever end of cable, located under console cover, until stroke is within
specification. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning light illuminates when brake
lever is pulled one notch.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1995-97 BRAKES Mazda - Disc & Drum
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:51:02 PMPage 5 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

929
1. Depress brake pedal several times. Depress parking brake pedal several times with a force of 44 lbs. (20
kg). If stroke is 5-7 notches, parking brake is properly adjusted. If stroke is not 5-7 notches, rotate
adjusting nut, located under parking brake pedal, until stroke is within specification.
2. Ensure rear brakes do not drag. Ensure parking brake warning light illuminates when brake pedal is
depressed one notch.
BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY
With engine off, depress pedal a few times to eliminate vacuum. Depress brake pedal by hand and check pedal
free play. See BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY SPECIFICATIONS
. Adjust play by loosening push rod lock
nut. Turn push rod until correct free play is obtained. Tighten push rod lock nut to 18-25 ft. lbs. (24-34 N.m).
BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY SPECIFICATIONS
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT & STOPLIGHT SWITCH
Miata, MPV, MX-3, MX-6, RX7, 626 & 929
1. Released pedal height is measured from carpet surface on vertical portion of firewall to pedal pad center.
Disconnect stoplight switch electrical connector. Loosen lock nut on stoplight switch. Rotate switch away
from pedal. Loosen push rod lock nut. Rotate push rod until correct pedal height is obtained. See
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
.
2. Adjust pedal free play. See BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY
. Tighten push rod lock nut to 18-25 ft. lbs.
(24-34 N.m).
3. Rotate stoplight switch until it contacts pedal and then rotate an additional 1/2 turn. Tighten stoplight
switch lock nut 10-13 ft. lbs. (14-18 N.m). Reconnect stoplight switch electrical connector.
4. Applied pedal height is measured from angled portion of firewall (without carpet) to pedal pad center.
Start engine. Depress brake pedal with 132 lbs. (60 kg) pressure.
5. Measure applied pedal hei
ght. See BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS . If distance is not NOTE: On B2300, B3000 & B4000, brake pedal free play is built into pedal linkage and
is not adjustable.
ApplicationIn. (mm)
Miata, MPV & MX-3.16-.28 (4-7)
Millenia, MX-6, Protege & 626.16-.47 (4-12)
RX7.12-.31 (3-8)
929.12-.47 (8-12)
NOTE: B2300, B3000 & B4000 are equipped with dual brake master cylinder and
vacuum booster. System is designed to permit full stroke of master cylinder
when brake pedal is fully depressed. Brake pedal height adjustment is not
required.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1995-97 BRAKES Mazda - Disc & Drum
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:51:02 PMPage 6 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

as specified, check for air in system, rear brake adjustment (drum brakes) or worn shoes or pads.
BRAKE PEDAL HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
Millenia & Protege
1. Released pedal height is measured between brake pedal and stoplight switch mounting bracket. See Fig.
3 . Disconnect stoplight switch electrical connector and remove switch. Measure length "L" between
stoplight switch mounting bracket and brake pedal. See Fig. 3
. On Millenia, length should be .79-
.90" (20-23 mm). On Protege, length should be .71-.86" (18-22 mm).
2. On all models, if clearance is as specified, install stoplight switch. No adjustment is necessary. If
clearance is not as specified, loosen lock nut "B" and rotate self-locking nut "A" counterclockwise until it
does not contact brake pedal.
3. Loosen push rod lock nut and rotate push rod until correct clearance between brake pedal and stoplight
switch mounting bracket is obtained. Tighten push rod lock nut. Rotate self-locking nut "A" clockwise
until clearance between brake pedal and end of self-locking nut "A" is .004-.039 (.1-1.0 mm). See Fig. 3
.
Tighten lock nut "B".
4. Install NEW stoplight switch. Stoplight switch is automatically adjusted by pulling back on brake pedal
until stoplight switch click noise is heard. Reconnect stoplight switch electrical connector. Check
stoplight operation. Adjust pedal free play. See BRAKE PEDAL FREE PLAY
. Tighten push rod lock
nut to 18-25 ft. lbs. (24-34 N.m).
5. Applied pedal height is measured from angled portion of firewall (without carpet) to pedal pad center.
Start engine. Depress brake pedal with 132 lbs. (60 kg) pressure. On Millenia, distance should be 2.7" (70
mm). On Protege, distance should be 3.8" (95 mm). On all models, if distance is not as specified, check
ApplicationIn. (mm)
Pedal Released
Miata6.8-7.1 (171-181)
MPV7.5-7.9 (191-201)
MX-37.6-7.7 (193-196)
MX-6 & 6267.5-7.7 (191-196)
RX76.5-6.9 (165-176)
9297.4-7.7 (188-195)
Pedal Applied (1)
Miata3.7 (95)
MPV, MX-6 & 6263.3 (85)
MX-32.8 (70)
RX73.9 (100)
9291.6 (40)
(1)Minimum height.
NOTE: When adjusting brake pedal height, a NEW stoplight switch must be used.
Stoplight switch can only be adjusted one time.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1995-97 BRAKES Mazda - Disc & Drum
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:51:02 PMPage 7 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

POWER BRAKE UNIT
1. With engine off, depress brake pedal several times. Press and hold brake pedal and start engine. If brake
pedal moves down slightly immediately after engine starts, power brake unit is operating. If brake pedal
does not move as specified, go to next step.
2. Run engine for 1-2 minutes. Stop engine. Press brake pedal several times and note if first pedal stroke is
longer than subsequent strokes. If first pedal stroke is longer than subsequent strokes, power brake unit is
operating. If length of strokes is equal, check valve and vacuum hose between vacuum source and power
brake unit. Repair as necessary, and go to next step.
3. Start engine. Press and hold brake pedal. Stop engine. Hold pedal down for about 30 seconds. If pedal
height remains at same height, power brake unit is operating. If pedal height recedes, check valve and
vacuum hose between vacuum source and power brake unit. Repair as necessary.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
FRONT DISC BRAKE PADS
Removal & Installation (B2300, B3000 & B4000)
1. To prevent master cylinder overflow when caliper piston is depressed, remove and discard some brake
fluid from master cylinder reservoir. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheel assemblies. Place a
large "C" clamp on caliper.
2. Tighten clamp to bottom piston in cylinder bore. Remove clamp. Remove 2 caliper pin bolts. Remove
caliper from rotor and wire aside. Slide brake pads off caliper anchor plate. Remove anchor plate (if
necessary). Replace pad if lining thickness is less than specified. See MINIMUM PAD LINING
SPECIFICATIONS (FRONT) .
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Use "C" clamp and old pad to push caliper piston into piston bore
until piston bottoms out. Bleed air from brake system (if necessary).
Removal & Installation (Miata, Millenia, MPV, MX-6, 626 & 929)
1. Raise and support front of vehicle. Remove front wheel assemblies. Remove lower lock pin/guide bolt.
See Fig. 4
, Fig. 5 or Fig. 6 . Pivot caliper upward and support using rope.
2. Remove pads, shims, guide plates or pad guides and "V" springs (if equipped). Replace pad if lining
thickness is less than specified. See MINIMUM PAD LINING SPECIFICATIONS (FRONT)
.
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Use Disc Brake Expander (49-0221-600C) and an old pad to push
piston full
y inward to install disc pads.
(38-46)

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
BRAKE SYSTEM 1995-97 BRAKES Mazda - Disc & Drum
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:51:03 PMPage 10 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Computer Relearn Procedures
COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES
Vehicles equipped with engine or transmission computers may require a relearn procedure after vehicle battery
is disconnected. Many vehicle computers memorize and store vehicle operation patterns for optimum
driveability and performance. When vehicle battery is disconnected, this memory is lost. The computer will use
default data until new data from each key start is stored. As computer memorizes vehicle operation for each
new key start, driveability is restored. Vehicle computers may memorize vehicles operation patterns for 40 of
more key starts.
Customers often complain of driveability problems during relearn stage because vehicle acts differently then
before being serviced. Depending on type and make of vehicle and how it is equipped, the following complaints
(driveability problems) may exist:
Harsh Or Poor Shift Quality
Rough Or Unstable Idle
Hesitation Or Stumble
Rich Or Lean Running
Poor Fuel Mileage
These symptoms and complaints should disappear after a number of drive cycles have been memorized. To
reduce the possibility of complaints, after any service which requires battery power to be disconnected, vehicle
should be road tested.
GENERIC COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES
Some manufacturers identify a specific relearn procedure which will help establish suitable driveability during
relearn stage. These procedures are especially important if vehicle is equipped with and electronically
controlled automatic transmission or transaxle. Always complete procedure before returning vehicle to
customer. The following general procedures are to be used if driveability problems are encountered after power
loss or battery has been disconnected. These procedures may provide an aid in eliminating these problems.
Automatic Transmission
Set parking brake, start engine in "P" or "N" position. Warm-up vehicle to normal operating temperature
or until cooling fan cycles.
Allow vehicle to idle for one minute in "N" position. Select "D" and allow engine to idle for one minute.
Accelerate at normal throttle position (20-50%) until vehicle shifts into top gear.
Cruise at light to medium throttle.
Decelerate to a stop, allowing vehicle to downshift, and use brakes normally.
Process may be repeated as necessary.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
GENERAL INFORMATION Computer Relearn Procedures

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
GENERAL INFORMATION Computer Relearn Procedures
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:47:32 PMPage 1 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:47:35 PMPage 1 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

Remove rear seat cushions. Disconnect fuel pump connector. Start engine and allow to stall. After engine stalls,
attempt to restart engine to ensure no residual pressure exists. Turn ignition off and reconnect fuel pump
connector. When disconnecting fuel hoses, cover connection with shop rag to catch fuel leakage. To avoid
excessive cranking after servicing, prime fuel system before starting engine.
Priming System
Ensure fuel system is closed. Connect jumper wire between F/P and GND terminals of data link connector. See
Fig. 1
. Turn ignition on for about 10 seconds and check for fuel leaks. Turn ignition off and disconnect jumper
wire.
Fig. 1: Identifying Data Link Connector Terminals (Typical)

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING
1. Slowly pour coolant into radiator at a rate of 1.1 qt. (1.0L) per minute maximum until coolant is level
with filler port. Fill coolant reservoir to "F" mark. Securely install radiator cap. Start engine.
2. Operate engine at idle until normal operating temperature is reached. If coolant level warning light
illuminates during warm-up, turn engine off and check drain plug and coolant hoses for leaks. Operate
engine at 2200-2800 RPM for 5 minutes. Stop engine and allow to cool.
3. Repeat steps 1) and 2). Check coolant level. If engine coolant is not level with filler neck, repeat entire
procedure. If engine coolant is level with filler neck, fill reservoir to "F" mark.
CAUTION: If engine overheats during procedure, system contains excessive air. Stop
engine and allow it to cool, then repeat step 1).

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1997-98 ENGINES 1.8L 4-Cylinder
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:55:15 PMPage 2 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

Solenoid Pull-In Test
Connect positive battery lead to solenoid "S" terminal and negative battery lead to starter body. See Fig. 2 .
Starter pinion drive gear should extend outward and stop. If starter pinion drive gear does not extend, replace
solenoid.
Solenoid Hold-In Test
After performing solenoid pull-in test, with positive battery lead connected to solenoid "S" terminal and
negative battery lead connected to starter body, disconnect field lead ("M" terminal wire) at solenoid. Starter
pinion drive gear should remain extended. If starter pinion drive gear returns, replace solenoid.
Solenoid Return Test
Disconnect field lead ("M" terminal wire) at solenoid. Connect positive battery lead to solenoid "M" terminal
and negative battery lead to starter body. See Fig. 2
. Using screwdriver, pry overrunning clutch pinion drive
outward. Release screwdriver and ensure overrunning clutch pinion drive returns to original position.
Solenoid
1. Disconnect all wires from solenoid, including "M" terminal wire between solenoid and starter. Using
ohmmeter, ensure continuity exists between "S" and "M" terminals, and between "S" terminal and
solenoid body. See Fig. 1
and Fig. 2 . If continuity does not exist between specified terminals, replace
solenoid.
2. Using ohmmeter, ensure continuity does not exist between "M" and "B" terminals. If continuity exists,
replace solenoid.
PINION GAP ADJUSTMENT
1. Disconnect field lead ("M" terminal wire) at solenoid. See Fig. 2
. Connect positive battery lead to
solenoid "S" terminal and negative battery lead to starter body. Starter pinion drive gear should extend
outward and stop.
2. Quickly measure pinion gap between end of pinion drive and circlip retainer. See Fig. 3
. DO NOT
operate starter solenoid for more than 10 seconds. Pinion gap should be as specified. See PINION GAP
SPECIFICATIONS table.
3. If pinion gap is not within specification, adjust by increasing or decreasing thickness of solenoid shims
located between solenoid and drive housing.
PINION GAP SPECIFICATIONS CAUTION: Perform solenoid tests with starter and solenoid assembled. DO NOT
engage starter solenoid for more than 10 seconds during testing, or
damage to coil winding may result.
ApplicationIn. (mm)
Miata (M/T).02-.08 (0.5-2.0)

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STARTER - DIRECT DRIVE 1997 STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS Mazda - Starters - Direct Drive
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:56:16 PMPage 5 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.

NO-LOAD TEST
Connect fully-charged 12-volt battery, voltmeter and ammeter to starter. See Fig. 2
. Using remote starter wires
or jumper, engage solenoid. Starter should spin smoothly. Compare readings with specifications. See NO
-
LOAD TEST SPECIFICATIONS table. If voltage is less than specified, amperage is more than specified or
shaft speed is less than specified, disassemble and inspect starter components.
NO-LOAD TEST SPECIFICATIONS
SOLENOID TESTS
Solenoid Pull-In Test
Connect positive battery lead to solenoid "S" terminal and negative battery lead to starter body. See Fig. 2 .
Starter pinion drive gear should extend outward and stop. If starter pinion drive gear does not extend, replace
solenoid.
Solenoid Hold-In Test
After performing solenoid pull-in test, with positive battery lead connected to solenoid "S" terminal and
negative battery lead connected to starter body, disconnect field lead ("M" terminal wire) at solenoid. Starter
pinion drive gear should remain extended. If starter pinion drive gear returns, replace solenoid.
Solenoid Return Test
Disconnect field lead ("M" terminal wire) at solenoid. Connect positive battery lead to solenoid "M" terminal
and negative battery lead to starter body. See Fig. 2
. Using screwdriver, pry overrunning clutch pinion drive
outward. Release screwdriver and ensure overrunning clutch pinion drive returns to original position.
Solenoid
1. Disconnect all wires from solenoid, including "M" terminal wire between solenoid and starter. Using
ohmmeter, ensure continuity exists between "S" and "M" terminals, and between "S" terminal and
solenoid body. See Fig. 1
and Fig. 2 . If continuity does not exist between specified terminals, replace
solenoid.
2. Using ohmmeter, ensure continuity does not exist between "M" and "B" terminals. If continuity exists,
replace solenoid.
ApplicationSpecification
Voltage (Minimum)11
Amperage (Maximum)90
Shaft Speed (Minimum RPM)3000
CAUTION: Perform solenoid tests with starter and solenoid assembled. DO NOT
engage starter solenoid for more than 10 seconds during testing or
damage to coil winding may result.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STARTER - REDUCTION GEAR 1997 STARTING & CHARGING SYSTEMS Mazda - Starters - Reduction Gear
Microsoft
Sunday, July 05, 2009 1:56:43 PMPage 5 © 2005 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC.