mx5 console voltages

[Wain]

So i failed the IVA recently on a few minor points. One of the points is that the console back light and main beam symbol dont illuminate. The bulbs looks ok, i have swapped some over to no avail. According to the wiring diagram there is a red wire which goes from the light stalk to the console, when this is on it outputs 0.2volts. Is this the issue? Should this not be outputing 12volts? Can anyone confirm what voltage is passing to the main beam bulb on their console from a mx5??

[RichardH]

just had this issue and thanks to garyt got it solved you need the dimmer in the circuit from the donor.

[Wain]

The dash dimmer switch? Got a feeling this connector has been stripped out of the loom....

[RichardH]

my donor is a 99 mk2 1.8 dash didnt light up without it, also the ecu looks for reading through bulbs to make things work properly, im currently fighting with the alternator, charge light relies on temp sensor in the air filter housing!

[Wain]

Right i will give the switch ago. I have heard of people going to carbs and after market ECU and the alternator not working because the air sensor was removed. Sometimes wonder if it would of just been easier to start from the beginning and make my own loom!

[flyerncle]

You could try and find an alternator that is the same size and does not rely on ecu for info to make it charge,there is a specialist in tyne and wear in Rolands Gill they may be able to advise you.

[RichardH]

there is plenty info on the web about using a mk1 mx5 alternator and changing the wiring to suit
to be honest i can see me going to a megasquirt or similar aftermarket ecu eventually, the issue is my donor mx5 a mk2 uses the dash and ecu for everything from speedo to charge lights to engine management it makes life so much easier to retain it all for iva test

[Wain]

I have ordered a switch off ebay so i will give that a go at weekend. Just need to get my speedo working now. Think i wired it up wrong, checked the diagram and i now just have the orange and yellow wires running straight from the console to the speed sensor on the gearbox, i hope this will just work!

[Wain]

I have retained most of the wiring for now to get it through IVA. An aftermarket ECU and carbs is a project in the future once it is on the road. I have been building it for a few years and just want to drive it now!