I just tried to start my '80 RX-7 after 9 years of storage and a complete carb rebuild. Everything went as planned at first-the starter cranked for about 5 revolutions, then simply stopped. Now every time I turn the key, the voltage meter on the tach jumps a little, but nothing engages or cranks. Does anyone know what might be wrong?

 

Could be the starter...could be worse like an apex seal(s).

After 9 years anything could be wrong.

What did you do to prep the engine? did you squirt some lube into the housings? after all that time I'm pretty sure there wasn't any oil where it needed to be.

=Eric

 

After sitting so long the brushes in the starter may not be getting good contact. Try tapping on the starter with a small hammer and see if it tries to turn over after that.

 

Check your fusible link under your steering column.

https://www.rx7club.com/1st-generation-specific-1979-1985-18/starting-problem-electrical-444665/

They are sold at the Mazda dealer, very low cost.

 

Battery cables tight at BOTH ends?? Re-clean the terminals, check and clean grounds (on negative cable)... How about a tow or push start and override the starter to be sure everything else works?
Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska

 

I pushed the car around a little in 4th gear and the engine spun fairly freely (didn't feel like anything was binding), so I don't think it's the apex seals. I will definately try squirting some lube in the housings tho.

 

SUCCESS!! I took out the fusable link, which was good, then played with the starter cable connections which were not making proper contact, and she started right up! Thanks to everyone who helped--it's a huge relief to see this car start up after a carb rebuild and 9 years sitting.