After taking a good close look at the susspension components, it seems that one of my rear springs is sagging a little, due to the age of the car i thought it would be wise to replace both rear shocks and springs before i continue with the build.
i was going to invest in adjustable ride height, however i noticed all the adjustable kits lower the car from 20mm - 60mm, at their maximum adjustment, would still be 20mm lower than stock! i couldn't risk this being too low for the large wheels
so...
I ordered standard rear shocks and standard springs
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3010028725...84.m1439.l2648
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2710167145...84.m1439.l2649
there is an excellent guide here:
http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=403704
includes all the pictures, torques and nut sizes for a rapid job! get your WD40 out, there will almost certainly be a rusted in bolt or 2
If you suspect dodgy suspension components, I would recomend doing this before you fit the tribute kit, the upper mounts are located deep into the boot space, even deeper once the new rear is bonded in place!
not so much a problem if you have long arms!
the highlight of this job was probably the 4 hours spent removing the drivers side lower shock bolt, as the encapsulated nut decided it was going to demote itself to a regular nut, leaving a 5mm gap to squeeze the mig welder into weld it back on!
All is complete, ride height still looks a little wonky but it has been on axle stands for a week, i will take it for a spin tomorrow and see if it settles.