Tickin an Dying! (Cold Weather takes its toll)

[Pedro_mx3]

hi guys, 2 questions, firstly my engine is quite ticky when idling an continues when i rev the engine also, it sounds from right at the top of the engine, a trusted friend of mine tells me that my oil is to thick (ive only just bought it an dont know whats in it) making the hydraulic valve lifters stick. is this right? what oil is a good choice? its got 88K on it an has been meticulously looked after at Mazda, no oil burning.
2) tried to start my MX friday morning at 4:30 (Frozen!)an the Sodding thing jus wouldnt start. it would crank fine but jus wouldnt fire, is this the typical cold start problem? ive ordered some KV85 Magnecor leads to try an combat this. am i on the right track here guys? its been fine since..

[mitmaks]

use thin oil for winter, 5w-30

[IanL]

Yes, use fully synthetic 5W-30; it will help to clean out the lifters, and the detergent effect lasts longer than partial synthetic.

Reluctance to start could be caused by dampness and gunge. Clean all the ignition parts with a degreaser (e.g. meths). Don't spray with WD40, it leaves a sticky residue which holds dirt - the dirt will conduct electricity and cause tracking, especially if the air is damp.

[Pedro_mx3]

Thanks guys, it was a combination of ****ed Leads and dampness (i live on the coast) she's been running ok since but my magnecors are on the way so my wallets allot lighter now what are good sparky plugs to use?

[IanL]

NGK are good. More expensive will not be better. Don't waste money on platignum or iridium tips - they are not needed for normally aspirated engines.

[Pedro_mx3]

cheers, so are the KV85 magnecors alright then? i bought them cause quite a few people use em an they have a life guarantee. dont really know much about the electronics of my MX yet. i used to have a citroen!!!