Looking at an 87 turbo, need advice
12-30-15, 07:46 PM
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Looking at an 87 turbo, need advice
Hey yall! I am new to RX7s but not Mazdas. I've owned 2 Miatas now and have done plenty of various jobs on them, and I would think I am at a moderate level of mechanical inclination. Today I stumbled across what seems to be a good deal on an 87 turbo and had some questions. First off, I admit that I have zero experience with rotary engines, and turbo vehicles. I've done some research on the most important things to look for in RX7s but would like some more insight.
I'm going to meet the guy on the 1st and want to have as much knowledge as possible. I'm going to do a carfax as soon as I receive the vin. So far here's what I know. From the pictures posted the car looks very very clean. Original paint with the "mazda" and "turbo" decals still clearly visible, Interior of the car is incredibly clean for its age and mileage. No tearing in the seats whatsoever or cracks in the dash. Everything appears to be stock, still has the stock wheels also. The car was definitely adult owned and cared for well. Now here's the downside, it has 153k miles. From my understanding that is a lot for an RX7 especially one with a turbo. He is asking 3,500 which doesnt seem too far off considering how clean it is and how much I've seen RX7s go for. So, what are the most important things I should check right away and what are the biggest red flags with RX7s? Thanks for any help and happy new year!
I'm going to meet the guy on the 1st and want to have as much knowledge as possible. I'm going to do a carfax as soon as I receive the vin. So far here's what I know. From the pictures posted the car looks very very clean. Original paint with the "mazda" and "turbo" decals still clearly visible, Interior of the car is incredibly clean for its age and mileage. No tearing in the seats whatsoever or cracks in the dash. Everything appears to be stock, still has the stock wheels also. The car was definitely adult owned and cared for well. Now here's the downside, it has 153k miles. From my understanding that is a lot for an RX7 especially one with a turbo. He is asking 3,500 which doesnt seem too far off considering how clean it is and how much I've seen RX7s go for. So, what are the most important things I should check right away and what are the biggest red flags with RX7s? Thanks for any help and happy new year!
12-30-15, 11:20 PM
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make sure the engine is cold when you start it.
Let it warm up and take it for a drive and see if it feels adequate.
The regular things to check would be for rust,accidents,and any damage that may show neglect.
Wiring should be stock or at least look professional and no "clip on connector" thingies being used.(they never make a solid connection and can lead to a ***** of a wire tracing problem later.)
Look for a clean engine bay and no leaking parts,no oil,fuel or coolant should be visible.)
The TEMP should be steady and the car should not try to overheat by "just looking at it" or driving like Miss Daisy.
Once Warm the engine should be compression checked.(SEE one of the MANY Threads on how to do a Comp check..I could tell you but I feel robotic typing it 10 times a week.)
Let it warm up and take it for a drive and see if it feels adequate.
The regular things to check would be for rust,accidents,and any damage that may show neglect.
Wiring should be stock or at least look professional and no "clip on connector" thingies being used.(they never make a solid connection and can lead to a ***** of a wire tracing problem later.)
Look for a clean engine bay and no leaking parts,no oil,fuel or coolant should be visible.)
The TEMP should be steady and the car should not try to overheat by "just looking at it" or driving like Miss Daisy.
Once Warm the engine should be compression checked.(SEE one of the MANY Threads on how to do a Comp check..I could tell you but I feel robotic typing it 10 times a week.)
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12-03-15 10:46 AM