Ok, so I think sometime in the near future I am going to undergo my first engine build. I have purchased and watched the DIY-RE 13B videos, and Im prety confident that the whole process should go smoothly, however I want to try and use as many new parts as I can (Id rather build a new engine than rebuild what Ive got) and I feel that the rotor bearings are something I would'nt mind replacing (maybe even upgrading to a 3 window), only problem is that the video is prety vague about clearancing the bearings (basically only says that re-using is ok, or that new ones need clearancing). Anyways I just want to know what I should do about this, Who should I send the parts out to, or if any machine shop should be able to do the job? Also, If I decide to go whole hog on this engine for high revs (hardened stationary gears+clearancing+balancing would be done) then what kind of oil system upgrades should be done to accompany the 3 window bearings?

Thanks in advance, as I know the questions and answers will probably be flyin in this thread haha I wont hesitate to ask questions until my fingers hurt so Im sure I build this engine right! haha.

 

You may want to look for a book called How to modify your RX-7. Its out of print so ebay is your best bet. It goes into more detail on things like porting and blueprinting ,clearancing etc etc. If you send your engine parts anywhere for machine work make sure its a well known rotary shop...not your local machine shop who isnt familliar or set up for your engine. If you go with 3 window bearings you'll want a higher output oil pump,usually a MFR unit. Check out mazdatrix's web site and read thier FAQ section..some good info there. If you do anything to increase oil pressure be sure too have your side housings professionally lapped or you may blow oil past the giant "o" rings on the sides of the rotors. These engine get quite expensive to rebuild properly..most people just re use a lot of parts and thats how you get a $1000 rebuild. A lot of these guys are really good at building 13 month engines when the warrenty runs out in 12. Write down the cost of shipping,lapping,bearings,clearance fees and parts and then search for a low mileage J spec engine and decide whats best for you. Theres now a J spec engine dealer in toronto who sells on ebay and shipping may not be too bad for you since customs wouldnt be a issue. For 1,400 or less you can get a 30 to k 40 kilometer T2 engine harness ECU and sometmes transmission. Add 400.00 for shipping and you very close to a DIY rebuild done properly. Also you have a newer turbo engine. Just my opinion,hope I helped,Shawn

 

New rotor bearings don't need any clearance but you gotta give them a nice smooth break in period...