Miata Mailing List: November 1992, Message #9
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   From: (none)
Subject: Exhaust Buzzing and Steering Wheel Vibration
   Date: (none)

A while ago there were several posts to the miata list indicating
that there was a significant buzzing at 3,000 to 4,000 RPM.  In one
case this problem was resolved with a change of the catalytic
converter and in another by fixing a heat shield near the exhaust
manifold.  I have a similar problem and I have noted that there is
also a high frequency steering wheel vibration when the exhaust
"buzzing" occurs.  Has anyone noted a steering wheel high frequency 
vibration in association with the buzzing sound?

The catalytic converter was changed under the recall without any
improvment in the buzzing sound.  The muffler was also replaced under
warantee without any improvement.  The dealer thought that there might
have been a resonator problem in the muffler which then transmitted
back to the exhaust manifold area which caused the vibration and
buzzing sound.  It was a good idea but it didn't solve the problem.  

I still think that the sound is coming from the exhaust manifold
area and I will still try to convince the dealer that they have not
fixed the problem.  I would appreciate any input from the list and
also whether or not some high frequency steering wheel vibration is 
associated with the buzzing sound.  If it is then we might solve two 
problems at once.  If not, then there might be another reason for the
high frequency steering wheel vibration.

Thanks for your help.

Herb Samuels