Miata Mailing List: June 1996, Message #79
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   From: Tom Manson 
Subject: Re: modifying my '96
   Date: Mon, 3 Jun 1996 13:25:10 -0400

On Mon, 3 Jun 1996 LSAPEX@aol.com wrote:

> >  When trying to install the thermostat I found a piece of threaded stock 
> >with a nut on it in the lower thermostat cover hole instead of a bolt! 
> > Since I'm taking the car in for its 3000 mile service friday I'm having the
> 
> >dealership remove this crap and install the normal 12mm bolt under warrenty.
> 
> > Really odd that!
> >
> >-=[Bob Allman]=-   MCA#58517  '96 Black B+
> 
> It's called a stud.
> Perfectly OK.
> In fact, it helps to align the gasket.
> If you think that's odd, I'm sure the dealer will think you are just as odd.
> 
> IMHO

I disagree Lester.  Ever since mass production started it was recognized 
that consistency in assembly was critical for the system to work.  I 
wouldn't necessarily call it "crap" as Bob did, nor do I think this 
case is a critical one, but I would expect Mazda to assemble their cars 
all the same way (except for options).  I found the same thing on my cat 
(one stud, one bolt), and I still don't know if it was a difference in 
the '93 year or just a one-time difference as Bob found.

Nowadays we call that "Configuration Management" and unless there is an 
alternate method of assembly or alternate part called out for an assembly, 
it can cunfuse the tech when he encounters it.

No big deal either way, but I can understand Bob's point of view.

Later,
Tom