2000 Mazda Protege LX (5 speed)

[tradosaurus]

I finally got the used Protege I bought in Dallas back home. It has the 1.6L DOHC engine and has 132,000 miles on the odometer.

I found a good deal on some 14" Miata rims so I had those installed on the Michelin tires that came with the car.

I have a few tasks planned and have already purchased the parts I need.

12/10/11
- Changed manual transmission fluid to 75W/90 synthetic Royal Purple (2.83 qts)
- Changed air filter
- Cleaned Throttle Body
- Changed PCV Valve
- Changed out power steering fluid using Mobil 1 synthetic transmission fluid
(using a large syringe I took out 10 oz of old and put 10 oz new. Did this 8 times after driving a few miles)
- Cleaned the engine bay thoroughly as it was very dusty and dirty. I did this not only for looks but to prepare for the timing belt change next week and to inspect for leaks.
- Ran 8 oz of Marvel mystery oil through the engine using the brake booster line (similar to seafoam treatment but cheaper). Once I saw white smoke out the back I let it sit a few hours.

Next week I plan on completing a timing belt change, including water pump, drive belts, seals and gaskets.

I will also replace the thermostat, radiator hoses and do a coolant flush.

Finally I will replace spark plugs with NGK and spark plug wires and boots. For some reason this Mazda has 2 spark plug wire and 2 Coil on Plugs.

Afterwards I will change out the oil using Mobil 1 synthetic (5W/20). The owners manual calls out 10W/30 but since my other cars use 5W/20 I went with that grade.

Once I complete all of this I will have a decent baseline to work with my MPG improvements.

This vehicle was garage kept and it appears the oil has been changed regularly. Other than that I don't think any other type maintenance has been performed. Certainly not the timing belt and with 132,000 miles on the engine I think it's long overdue.