Help! I am about to embark on something I've never tried before - rebuilding a rotary engine. The phrase "mechanically declined" would best describe my current ability, although I can change a tire and my oil.

The situation: I run PRO-7 in the International Conferenece of Sports Car Clubs (ICSCCC). This class is limited to 1st Gen RX-7s. The rules require all engines to be stock, with a stock intake manifold and carb and a stock exhaust manifold. Porting or other mods are not allowed, although the engine can be blueprinted and balanced. Also carbon seals are permitted.

My goal is to build a bullet-proof engine, maybe not the highest horsepower, but one that will last a couple of seasons (about 4/5 race weekends per year). I have so many questions but here are a few to start:

1. What tools do you recommend as absolutely essential to the rebuild? Any recommendations on an engine stand?

2. Is there a specific tech manual that is recommended?

3. Are there videos or DVDs that review an engine rebuild?

4. There are a number of rebuild kits out there, from stock to racing. I need one that fits the parameters of the rules - any recommendations?

5. This question is very broad - but is there a "good" way of doing the job? I don't mean speed tricks (legal or not) but a methodological way of dismantling and rebuilding the engine?

6. How will I know whether a part (the few there are) is still reusable?

7. Any other advice . . . for example - other threads or comemnts that have been posted.

I know this covers a lot of area but I'm looking forward to the challenge.

Thanks in advance for all your help!!

PS - I posted this under the "Racing" forum.

 

i have a mazda factory competition manual that explains all you need to know. another great place to start would be to pick up a copy of the rotary rebuild video by mr. dan atkins. his company's website is www.atkinsrotary.com. very nice people and they are definatly a very reliable source when rebuilding and racing with the rotary. i would trust them with any questions i may have.

 

i don't have the atkins video, but i have bruce turrentines from rotary aviation. It's an excellent video. http://www.rotaryaviation.com/overhaul_video.htm

 

best thing to do is get a copy of the rebuild videos from DIY, Atkins, or Mazdatrix. then watch it 10- 15 times if you still dont understand any of the above questions watch them again until desiered result. Then buy needed tools and rebuild kit that soots your needs. rebuild engine and enjoy.

 

I too used the RotaryAviation video, and highly recommend it. I watched it several times before I started, then hooked up a DVD player to the TV in my garage and used it as a guide for every step. Very handy!

Rich