Mmm, difficult one that. Could be the immobiliser. I don't have wiring diagrams for a 1997 only 1996. There is a wire that goes to the starter but also to the ST SIGN fuse that then feeds the ECU and fuel relay. If this wire is damaged you could turn over the engine without out it starting. The "click" sounds like it could be the fuel pump relay is faulty but it could also point to the other two possibilities.

So bypass or replace the fuel the pump relay and check the continuity of this feed wire to the ECU, if you still have the issue then possibly an immobiliser issue! HTH :)

Ive fitted an S2000 engine in my Haynes (sierra donor originally ) Just a matter of engine and gearbox mounts and engine electronics - I went for Omex. I got the engine and box really cheap and got it all in and running for about 2.5 k, that may sound expensive until you price up a 250 bhp Duratec engine.

Thanks Chris, the relay has been checked and is ok but replaced it anyway, the other suggestions I'll check after we say goodbye to the grandchildren we are looking after at the moment

Have you got a build thread, how did you find dealing with the engine height?

I remember this one from years back.

https://haynes.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=6867

Worth checking the main relay as well as it feeds the fuel pump relay if you haven't already done so.

Edit:

If you don't get any brake or charge warning lights when you turn the key as well then there is a good chance that the issue is with the ignition switch or the white wire that feeds the ign switch or the blue wire that runs to the meter fuse.

I only have decorating to do today so I'm quite happy to try and get this resolved for you. I hate decorating, can you tell!! lol

HaHa - know what you mean with that one - I've seen the diagrams listing the blue wire but my Mk 2 doesn't have a blue wire - Power arrives at the ign switch and I have checked on an ohm meter where the switch sends it as you turn the key and that appears to be ok. I think its a beak in one of the wires but as yet haven't found out which one it is. I've got lots of Miata wiring diagrams but as yet no Mk 2 UK one for my year car. I'll get there eventually. Anyone want a 5 year old and 18 month old to look after so I can get back to the car

I don't think they made a mk2 in 1997, but sounds like your on the right track to getting to the bottom of it. Couple more weeks and they'll all be back at school! Thank god!:rolleyes:

Maybe I wrote it wrong earlier, I didn't think I had, its 1998 - at 18 months school is immaterial for one of them, thankfully the better one to manage :)

Oh dear did some check and found I had somehow connected the rear loom where the dash loom goes and vice versa. Corrected the fault but as yet no change. hope I haven't fried the ecu etc :(

Oh dear. :(