alligatorlizard wrote:I had what sound like the same symptoms for ages with my 1992 import - shortly after getting it I had various cooling problems that led to most hoses replaced, new rad and new water pump/thermostat - so after this I knew the cooling system itself was in pretty good shape, but nonetheless, the needle always climbed a bit (sometimes just slightly right of centre, sometimes almost halfway towards the "H", depending on weather) when stuck in traffic or at lights. Was like this for maybe two years, didn't seem to be doing any damage, and besides there was nothing I could do because none of the mechanics I took it to could figure out why it wasn't holding it's temperature better - and to be fair, the cause was hard to spot, because the fan did work, only it clearly wasn't working at full capacity... Recently it died completely, and since replacing it, the needle's never moved from it's usual position just left of centre. So after all the things I tried (and many posts on MX5OC etc!) it turned out to be just a weak fan.
Anyway, if yours isn't turning at all, there's no doubt that's where your problem lies! I'd say it's an easy fix too, compared to any problems with the actual coolant system.
this is a good shout. Have also seen poor wiring do the same - and remember mk.1's are well into 'classic car rules' now