Mazda Repair: Overheating Center console, phillips head screws, fan switch

Question
I have recently purchased 1990 Miata 5 speed.  The center console where stickshift is and surrounding area is getting very hot.  I have put new catalytic converter and pipes.  Engine doesn't overheat, but it's very hot.  I have huge K&N filter for intake.  I flushed cooling system, changed thermostat and Fan switch.  Is this normal or do I need to do something.   Thank you.

Answer
The transmission and shifter can match the engines temperature.  If you have a metal shift knob it can also match the temperature by radiation.  Otherwise in all likelihood you have a breach in the shifter body seal that is allowing hot air to enter the body at the shifter.

Pull the shifter console (5 phillips head screws and the shift knob)  inspect the body seal for cracking, if bad order these P/N's from Mazda to service the shifter,  replace these parts then top the shifter with 75w-90 gear oil to the first ring.

NA01-64-481B Body Seal
M514-17-480A Shifter Base Seal
0398-17-462A Shifter Bushing

You'll rebuild your shifter, improve it's feel and resolve your hot shifter problem.

service@miatashop.com