Envaris

Hi Guys,

I recently started working on re-vamping my RX-7. It's a 1988 GXL NA. Originally, my coolant seal blew on me. At that point it was either start rebuilding or just move on to another car. Since I was so attached to my car I decided to bring it back to life.

So far this is what I have done:

Engine Rebuild
New Turbo Housings Street Ported
My S4 Rotors ceramic coated
3mm Apex Seals
New Oil Pump (TII)
New Spark Plugs

Header Exhaust System (Racing Beat)
Performance Radiator
New Water Pump

I guess I would call this Stage 1 of my project since I want to stagger my costs a bit as I get work done to my car.

I'm currently working towards putting in about 1500-2000km on the rebuilt engine to work out any kinks I may notice or any problems. So far so good the engine runs solid and the car sounds great.

Stage 2 of the build will include:

J-Spec Transmission installed
New Clutch
Supercharger
Bigger fuel injectors (secondary and primary)
A/C (don't have any in mine atm)


Stage 3 will focus on:
Suspension
Brakes
Stainless Steel Brake lines
Overall Handling

Stage 4 will be the last phase of the project and will include:
Exterior/Body
Strip All Paint
Remove Body blemishes
Fix any rust damage found
Paint (undecided on color)
TII Style Hood (of the Carbon Fibre variety)
Spoiler (something that compliments the existing body lines of the car)
S5 Tail Lights
Xenon Headlights
Body Kit (Bumpers, and Side Skirts)
Interior
New Bucket Seats
New Instrument Cluster (a more updated look)
New Carpet
Decent Sound System
Security System


Now where I need some advice from you guys is based on your experiences doing similar work where did you find unexpected problems arise? Is something I've stated above in an incorrect sequence (in terms of building as reliable and fun car as possible)?

I'm just starting my research going Stage 2 and forward. For example I looked at how Superchargers work vs Turbos and the kind of work that would have to be done to my car to be compatible with one or the other. In the end I decided on a supercharger. But what I haven't decided on for example is what kind of supercharger I should get. Based on your experiences do can you recommend some solid superchargers for example? After all is said and done I'm looking at having anywhere from 350-500rwhp. I'm keeping the final HP range so wide because I need to research (and with your input) decide on the right balance between practical and impractical.

So far the engine seems to be ready for that type of application. Similarly, based on what I have said so far what size injectors would be appropriate in your opinion?

As far as suspension, brakes, and handling goes my knowledge isn't very extensive at all. I do know that I'm not interested in lowering my car too much. The areas I drive in can get bumpy. What I do know is that with more power, I should have proportionally better stopper power. I will have a girl in the car with me I do want it to be a comfortable ride for her and at the same time have a good feel and sense of the road I'm driving on.

What would also be really helpful is if you could point me in the right direction when it comes to some makes and brands of parts available that you would consider using on your own FCs or are using on your FCs. Also, any suggestions that can steer my build in the right direction would be really great. I'm the type of person that would like to have more information than not enough.

My very vague goal in the end is to have a car that with proper care can last me many more years to come (10-15yrs). A car that is superior to most common (and some uncommon) new stock cars out there in as many ways as possible :P.

if I posted this thread in the incorrect location I must apologize. In the 2+ years I've been subscribed to these forums I've mostly only read what you guys have posted and never really tried posting a thread of my own.

I will also post pictures of my project very soon if that's ok.

Aaron Cake

iTrader: (1)

If you are looking to make power (> 250HP) then a supercharger is not the way to go. The only real kit on the market makes about 200 RWHP and isn't very well designed. After that, you are looking custom.

Which is the same for turbocharging the NA enigne, but the results will be much better.