Cylinder Head Inspection/Repair

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata, and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Carry out cooling flaw detection on the cylinder head surface. Replace the cylinder head as necessary.
Inspect for the following and repair or replace as necessary.
1. Sunken valve seats.
2. Excessive camshaft oil clearance and end play.
Measure the cylinder head for distortion in the six directions as shown.
Distortion
1. 0.10 mm {0.004 in} max.
  
  Fig 1: Cylinder Head Distortion Measurement Directions
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
If the cylinder head distortion exceeds the maximum, repair by grinding height or replace the cylinder head. If the cylinder head height is not as specified, replace it.
Standard Height
1. 133.8-134.0 mm {5.268-5.275 in}
Grinding
1. 0.10 mm {0.004 in} max.
Measure the manifold contact surface distortion as shown.
Distortion
1. 0.15 mm {0.006 in} max.
If the distortion exceeds the specification, grind the surface or replace the cylinder head.
Grinding
1. 0.20 mm {0.008 in} max.