my '79 is smokin' and needs new oil control rings and an exhaust system.

Instead of rebuilding the existing block I was going to get another 12A put together over the winter to swap into it in the spring with a new RB header and presilencer setup. I want to stay with a 12A , a Nikki carb and factory AC. I am not trying to get more horsepower for this car, mostly reliability and driveability .

A few questions if you can help? I searched some of these things, but not clear in the threads I found.

1. Can I get a rebuilt 12A from ANY model year to swap directly into the stock '79 carb, oil cooler , electrical etc.

2. I don't NEED emissions control where I am , but may want them if I can . If I go RB header etc. , do I have to remove the rats nest or is there a way to connect a High Flow cat ( ie Bonez ?) to the air pump and RB stuff?

3. If I get a different year rebuilt 12A block , what stock 79 equipment in the engine bay would I need to change or modify for the swap ?

4. any other suggestions .... feel free to add your 2 cents .

 

Block?

 

Also known as Engine

 

I was making a funny, dude.

 

Mazdatrix engine page
http://www.mazdatrix.com/engmain.htm

 

Emission control. If you HAVE to have it, it will hinder you. No RB header, keep the air pump/exhaust manifold, etc. If you DON'T need it, then you can get a header.

With the 79 you have the thermal reactor. The SA carburetors ran a little higher primary jetting so it could burn better in the TR. The FB carburetors had the catalytic converters, so they ran smaller primary jets and chokes. Take a look at an SA carb and an FB carb and it will be clear to you.

The biggest bridge you have to pass is the emissions. If it is needed, then say goodbye to anything power related for the most part, unless you know someone. If you don't need emissions, then have at it.

 

Thanks vashner and jeezus , my rebuild will be coming from used parts at RPM motorsports in Ontario , Canada . I don't need to pass emissions so I think I will ditch the exhaust manifold and air pump and go with a RB header. .... so that means the rats nest has to / should be be removed or is that still needed for the carb to operate properly?

what years of housings / plates will allow me to keep the 79 Front mounted oil cooler ?

so what stock Nikki carb runs best with emissions removed? .... or do I consider getting a Sterling

 

Any year engine will take the FMOC. Just swap the filter mount. If the block had a beehive, you will need to block off the extra heater line port.