My wife drives this car. Please, let me know if this is an easy swap.

I did a search but the info is somewhat vague and confusing.

What all parts are needed from the '85 donor car ?
Will the 13B in the '81 make it easier ( or harder ) for the attaching bracketry ?
Is there a shaft length difference ?
What problems are associated with that ?
Does the difference cause problems on the engine compartment side or the interior side of the firewall ?
Any problems, special parts or fabrication associated with this ?
What about space in the engine compartment and/or belting the nre pump up ?
Will taking the

I do appreciate any and all help.

 

From what I understand you need to swap the whole sha-bang out. may be easier if that sounds easier. Most likely have to pull engine. It would be one less thing to work around. Yeah I know I am vague also. i havent done it so if anything this is a free bump for ya.

 

I can not speak to the difficulty given you have a 13b in your 1981 car. However, I did just swap out my steering column in my 1985 for another. Assuming you are reasonably familiar with tools and such, have the right tools, etc., it is a four to six hour job. If you struggle changing brakes or oil, this is not the job for you.

 

Sorry, I missed the main point of your questions.

I have been told, but not personally experienced, that the columns / steering boxes are interchangable. That assumes that you are going to the power steering column simply for the quicker ratio.

Now, if you want to maintain the power steering after the swap, you need to make a note of and swap everything that is associated with the power steering. There are parts diagrams you can download from various places (search on "RX7 shop manuals") that will identify parts. I think they are at: www.iluvmyrx7.com

From memory, I seem to recall that the power steering equipped cars have a slightly different setup for the air conditioning also, so check that out too.

Good luck.

 

All day job, then...

I went and looked at it ( 1985 GSL ). I think you are right. It seems to be quite involved. Maybe a different steering wheel will help. Also, this donor I found has 188,000 miles on it. Probably risking that the pump or box is junk.

I did snag the distributor with the J109's intact and they LOOK good. The coils were rusty. The limited slip and rear disk rearend will be mine Saturday, though. only wish it had the 4.11 SE ring and pinion.

Thanks.