Quick question for the RX-7 gurus. I am replacing the thermowax pellet thing/spring unit, and ordered a part - "replacement for plug #11". After about seven back and forth emails with the techs at MazdaTrix, I am still somewhat unsure about simply unbolting this main pulley nut. I understand there is an issue with the Torrington bearing slipping off from behind and really nutsing things up. MazdaTrix suggested getting behind the transmission cover (I have an automatic - for now) and forcing the torque converter forward. With the four bolts that hold the pulley in place, is this still necessary? Forgive me lack of full comprehension of the Wankel...I just need to replace that thermowax pellot and do not feel like tearing into the front cover to get into even more trouble. Thanks in advance for any help and suggestions.

 

I just unbolted the starter and held the flywheel with a crowbar. Chances are, the E-shaft will not move anyways.

 

Frank,

The new plug has to behind the main nut that holds the pulley boss on, once you removed the 4 bolts, you're still left with a 19 or 21mm (I forget) bolt that has to be removed. Remove that, fish out the spring and pellet, and install the plug.

From what I've been told (I did mine out of the car, where I could turn the engine so I knew the bearing wouldn't drop), as long as you leave the pulley boss alone (just remove the bolt, spring/pellet), there's no room for the bearing to come out.. but you gotta keep that boss from moving.

Realistically, I'd do it the way Mazdatrix said to do it, they know the drill.

PaulC

 

now THAT'S what I like to hear...MazdaTrix never even mentioned getting behind where the starter sits - which is a direct "in" to the flywheel. THANKS! I didn't quite see how the eccentric shaft would have moved anyway...but...with all the damn BS I've gone through wih the car already...no way was I tackling this without checking, first.

 

Paul, from looking at the main pulley, itself, it doesn't look like the four bolts have to be removed to get that center bolt out. Am I correct in this? Heck, it almost looks like you could darn near leave all the belts on...get the fan off (four bolts), loosen the belt tension on some of the accessories, put an airgun on that main bolt, and pop the #11/springy thingy right out and replace it with the dummy plug. I should just stay with my turbine engines...a whole lot easier!

 

Yes, as long as the main pulley doesn't move, you're good.


-Ted

 

FWIW....There's a inspection plate just inboard of the oil filter. You could take it up(the plate has one 10mm or 12mm size bolt, and jam a piece of wood behind the flywheel from there.