OK, I just got my 1980 RX7 up and running, a few things I have found out of the ordinary.

1. Water temp gauge moves about a 1/8th of an inch. I drove the car for about 6 miles today the gauge didnt move till I got home and parked. Im thinking previous owner took out the thermostat.
Do you have any possible Ideas on this one?
The water temp sender unit is located next to the thermostat?

2. Coolant is pooling on top of the engine. this one I figured out from the search and the intake manifold gasket and O rings are on order.
Is it better to seal that water passage or use the Orings? Pros and Cons?

3. The idiot light for low coolant is coming on intermitantly. I checked the coolant got plenty in it even with the leak.

I believe fixing #2 will cure #3

Thanks,
Sean

 

Hey Sean.. I had the same thing with the idiot light coming on with plenty of coolant in the radiator. Fortunately I was on the way to work and my mechanic was just around the corner. Turned out the radiator was starting to block. A re-core later and everything is back to normal.

If you are missing the thermostat I would be worried that it was removed to stop anyone noticing the radiator wasn't doing it's job... That happened to me when I was young and stupid buying my first car.

..Matt

 

how much for a recore?

..Sean

 

I have no idea how much you'd be looking at as I'm in New Zealand.. Mine was NZ$300 or more which would be roughly US$150. I think he also replaced the hoses and the cap etc.

If you can't get any better advice/suggestions from the more knowledgeable people here I'd suggest you take her in to a mechanic you trust and get it checked out. I personally would avoid driving as you really don't want to overheat it!

..Matt