The Mk1 Turbo restoration continues, and in Part 4 the Lights Up Lights Down build heads into one of the most revealing, and rewarding stages yet. With the driver’s side now repaired and back together, attention turns to the passenger rear quarter, the rear subframe, and everything that sits underneath the car.
As expected, what starts as a “quick check” quickly turns into a deeper refresh… but that’s exactly how this project is being done – Properly!
Passenger Rear Quarter – Digging into the Unknown
With the driver’s side completed in Part 3, the team move straight onto the passenger rear quarter. Although the outer panel initially looks better than the opposite side, rust is soon uncovered in the inner sections, particularly around the sill and arch areas
Thankfully, the damage isn’t quite as extensive this time. The corroded sections are cut away, cleaned back and rebuilt, allowing the structure to be strengthened without disturbing solid original metal further back in the car.
Inner Arch Repairs & Rear Quarter Refit
Once the inner arch repairs are complete, the rear quarter panel is prepped and welded back onto the car. As with the driver’s side, everything is carefully aligned, sealed and protected to prevent future moisture ingress
With both rear quarters now back on, the Mk1 is finally starting to look like a complete car again.
Rear Subframe Removal - Worse Than Expected
With bodywork progressing nicely, focus shifts underneath, and this is where things take a turn. The rear subframe is removed, revealing heavy corrosion that simply can’t be ignored. Some components are in far worse condition than expected, confirming that replacement is the only sensible option
While the subframe is out, the rear underside is thoroughly cleaned, treated with rust converter, zinc primed and protected, work that’s far easier (and more effective) with everything stripped back.
New Rear Subframe & Suspension Arms
A replacement rear subframe and fresh suspension arms, supplied by ourselves here at MX5parts are prepared and installed, instantly transforming the underside of the car. Compared side by side, the improvement over the original corroded parts is dramatic
With the subframe back in, the differential cleaned up and the rear end protected, the Mk1 Turbo is now structurally stronger than it’s been in years.
Watch Part 4 - Making My Mk1 Turbo Better
Featured MX-5 Parts in Part 4
If you’re tackling a similar refresh on your own Mk1, here are some of the key components featured in this episode:
- Mk1 Rear Quarter Panels
- Mk1 Rear Subframe
- Mk1 Suspension Arms
- Rear Subframe & Suspension Bushes
- Mk1 Body Repair Sections & Rust Protection Products
Shop Mk1 MX-5 Body Panels & Repair Sections
Browse Mk1 Suspension & Subframe Parts
Watch Previous Episodes
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