challer2000

Hey guys, I have a stock 1980 Rx7 just removed the rats nest and now removing the exhaust, but I'm stuck on the thermal reactor's top left nut . In my searching I have read that a 14mm swivel socket will work, but I was wondering if there was any other way? Tried an impact swivel but didn’t work.

Thanks,
Chris

DivinDriver

iTrader: (15)

Mazda made a special tool for this; essentially a crowsfoot wrench on a dogleg extention, with a t-handle. Pure unobtanium, of course.

The practical way to get it off is to pull the intake manifold, but naturally that's a mess because you'll drain the block of antifreeze.

I actually replaced my top TR nuts with hardened nuts of a smaller outside diameter, specifically because of this PITA job - lets me use a flex socket OK. I used to switch between headers and TR every couple years, for my smog inspection.

There's a pic of the special tool in the FSM; maybe looking at it will give you some inspiration that has eluded me over the years. Or maybe someone can fab one up for you?

7aull

iTrader: (2)

Chris-
buy the pivoting socket works like a charm. Sears sells em for what? $10?

Keep the receipt and return it after your done!

HINT for re-attachment:
I bought a set of...10? 10mm (12mm??) COPPER, heat-resistant nuts from Pineappleracing.com designed specifically for RX7 exhaust fastening. Will not corrode or "weld" themselves to the studs. you know, for next time....


Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska

trochoid

iTrader: (6)

Lots of PB Blaster and let it soak in. I have never needed a fancy socket to remove any of the TR bolts. Top ones from the top, lower ones from underneath. I did have the advantage of a pit for getting to the lower ones. If the PB fails, try a little heat.

challer2000

The pivoting socket worked within 5mins.... sucks I wasted 2 hours last night on it. I did buy the copper nuts from Pinappleracing (bought 10... guess I have extra).