When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I've got an 80' RX7, while it was sitting, someone attempted to steal it and messed up the ignition. It used to work fine, then it went to no longer cranking the engine over, now i get nothing at all when i turn the key. Not even the fuel pump turns on. Can't seem to find any on Ebay, Mazdatrix and Atkins Rotary both don't have any. Does anyone know what would be a good replacement?
Is the switch itself messed up or just the column lock?
Take the covers off and the ignition switch is held on to the lock with one screw, take it out and see if turning it with a screwdriver activates the fuel pump.
That sucks. Did they damage the lock mechanism or it just no longer makes contact to crank the starter or power the car? The actual switch is behind the lock cylinder and can go bad. They have not been available new for awhile (P/N 8871-66-151) but can be found from cars being parted out. Have you tried Riggs Rotary out of Canada or Rhineharts in PA?
You can also pop the back of the switch apart once its removed from the lock and clean it good with electronic cleaner. Sometimes the back gets loose and just needs to have the tangs holding it on crimped down a bit tighter as well. I had to do this with my 80 SA after I had it for a few years to keep it working as it was my daily. At some point I ordered a new replacement over the years due to it finally wearing out.
I’ve run into a similar issue on an older rotary, and in many cases the ignition switch itself ends up being the culprit rather than just the lock cylinder. Since these parts aren’t produced new anymore, sourcing from part-out cars or smaller shops is usually the way to go. Riggs Rotary and Rhineharts are solid suggestions, but if you can’t track one down, another option is to have a locksmith rework or replace the damaged ignition assembly.
For instance, Locksmith Singapore has dealt with older ignition systems where replacements weren’t available, and they were able to refurbish or adapt compatible parts to get the car running again. It’s worth checking with a trusted locksmith in your area, especially since the damage was caused by an attempted theft, they’ll know how to restore both functionality and security. You can learn more about these kinds of solutions if you’re exploring alternatives to finding a direct OEM switch.
I’ve run into a similar issue on an older rotary, and in many cases the ignition switch itself ends up being the culprit rather than just the lock cylinder. Since these parts aren’t produced new anymore, sourcing from part-out cars or smaller shops is usually the way to go. Riggs Rotary and Rhineharts are solid suggestions, but if you can’t track one down, another option is to have a locksmith rework or replace the damaged ignition assembly.
For instance, Locksmith Singapore has dealt with older ignition systems where replacements weren’t available, and they were able to refurbish or adapt compatible parts to get the car running again. It’s worth checking with a trusted locksmith in your area, especially since the damage was caused by an attempted theft, they’ll know how to restore both functionality and security. You can learn more about these kinds of solutions if you’re exploring alternatives to finding a direct OEM switch.
