The 1990 Mazda Miata in question has a special significance to its owner, being their first car and wearing a custom shade of light blue. After being parked in a barn for six years, the WD Detailing crew was called to bring it back to life. The cleanup process revealed years of dirt and wood chips collected from its time in the barn, presenting some challenges in restoring the car to its former glory. Despite initial concerns about the engine and undercarriage due to sitting on a damp floor, the car cleaned up well visually.
### Cleanup Process
The first step in the restoration process involved vacuuming the exterior, focusing on removing the wood chips and dirt embedded in the car’s crevices. The stock steel wheels were cleaned next, followed by a thorough power wash, revealing the car’s original white paint color hidden underneath the grime. The engine bay required special attention, with traces of a makeshift nest made of plastic bags hinting at an unwelcome opossum visitor. While surface rust and corrosion were widespread, the interior cleaned up exceptionally well despite the presence of dirt and mold.
### Engine Troubles
Despite the visual improvements, the engine proved to be a challenge. The engine would turn over and had spark, but it failed to start even with starting fluid. A compression test revealed low psi levels in all cylinders, indicating potential damage caused by the past opossum inhabitant. The owner’s hope to have the Miata back on the road faced uncertainty as the engine issue needed to be resolved first.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1990 Mazda Miata’s restoration journey highlighted the importance of proper storage and maintenance for classic cars. Despite facing challenges such as years of neglect and engine issues, the Miata was successfully restored visually, showcasing its potential to be back on the road with further mechanical repairs. The owner’s sentimental attachment to the car and the efforts of the WD Detailing crew in bringing it back to life underscored the enduring appeal of classic vehicles and the skill required in their restoration. With the engine issue pending resolution, the future looks promising for this special 1990 Mazda Miata.