1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Need help, clutch, transmission, steering box questions

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Old 07-11-02, 02:34 PM
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Need help, clutch, transmission, steering box questions

Hi, Driving an 85 GSLSE.

1. How do I know when it is time to replace my clutch, what are the signs?

2. How do I know that a transmission rebuild is in order, or possible transmission replacement?

3. I want to replace the steering box. What problems, if any could occur if I decide to tighten up the "factory free play" as I like to call it. I don't like driving cars with that much play, its manual steering BTW.

4. My car is kinda noisy, I want to replace the shocks, struts and bushings with KYB or Tockico's. In your experience(s) did the suspension replacement dramitcally improve your overall ride? How does your car handle now?

5. One more thing, how do you guys take care of rattles, squeaks etc. throughout your RX7? Is there an Anti-rattle kit or something like that for Mazda First-gens?

6. Yet another question, I want to replace the stock exhaust as well. I live in oregon and need to pass emissions. What would be an excellent brand name for the exhaust system? Something not too loud, but with increase performance and emissions friendly?

7. Ahh, just thought of another. My engine shudders as it is in an idle state. My gear shifter vibrates while the car is idle and in motion what could be causing these problems?

I love my car and want to restore as much as possible before an engine rebuild.

Thank you very much, your help is greatly appreciated.

M.
Old 07-11-02, 03:13 PM
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Re: Need help, clutch, transmission, steering box questions

3. I want to replace the steering box. What problems, if any could occur if I decide to tighten up the "factory free play" as I like to call it. I don't like driving cars with that much play, its manual steering BTW.

First thing you'd wanna check is that all the steering linkage and bushings are in good repair. After making sure that is not the source of your problem, go
HERE for detailed instructions on tightening out the free play.

5. One more thing, how do you guys take care of rattles, squeaks etc. throughout your RX7? Is there an Anti-rattle kit or something like that for Mazda First-gens?

One at a time. Tightening screws and bolts, oil, electrical and duct tape, and bits of foam all do wonders to fix the odd noises that out 20 or so year old cars make.

6. Yet another question, I want to replace the stock exhaust as well. I live in oregon and need to pass emissions. What would be an excellent brand name for the exhaust system? Something not too loud, but with increase performance and emissions friendly?

A good high flow cat like a Bonez that will replace all three cats and bolt to the stock manifold (www.rx7.com) or somthing like the Mazdatrix highflow cat that bolts up to the Racing Beat header (www.mazdatrix.com). Both will pass an emissions test, as long as there's no visual check of the exhaust components.

7. Ahh, just thought of another. My engine shudders as it is in an idle state. My gear shifter vibrates while the car is idle and in motion what could be causing these problems?

How does it sound? Is it a problem with the idle itself (i.e. is it idling rough), or is it just the vibrations? If the latter I would probably theck all your engine/tranny mounts and make sure they're all present and in good shape.


Hope this is helpfull,
-Spencer
Old 07-11-02, 03:20 PM
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answers

1. It will slip , smoke, or grind while driving

2. constant whinning sound while driving, grinding in certain gears, or fails to stay in gear

3.there are a few write ups on this, search under steering and freeplay

4.There are also many write ups on this search for buhsings shochs ,springs

5.I coated the entire interior (under carpet, behind door panels) with a noise reducer. 90% satisfied with the results

6. try racingbeat, victoria british, mazdatrix....

7. sounds like a vaccume leak to me or an improperly adjusted air meter or failing sensor
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