I have a 1988 rx7 convertible and was trying to restore it
New top - wheels paint job - all going ok.... until.

I change dthe plugs and crossed them (not a mechanic here)

I took it to my local mazda shop and they switched them back and then charged me a few hundred dollars to clean or replace (not sure) a shudder valve???

Anyways - GREAT torque and fast now - BUT it now overheats in 2 or so miles and I have to shut it off

They claim the motor is shot? I think it runs to good for that and it never overheated before... it did sit up for 3 months or so however? ANy help or ideas???

thanks

 

Motor isn't "SHOT" persay... BUT. most likely you coolant seals are

The GOOD news is that if its still running that well, the internals should still be good and you will just require a rebuild kit ($900) and labor to rebuild the motor..

My advice... park it, and don't run it anymore until you decide which way to go.. rotor housings are like 400 bucks a pop if you screw 'em up!!!

 

Here is a quick check to see if your coolant seals are toast, or you have smaller problems:

I think my engine has been overheated. How can I check to see if the coolant seals are good?
Fill coolant system ALL THE WAY UP (engine cold). Make sure that the fluid level is as high as you can get it. Leave the filler cap off. Remove the EGI fuse. Crank the motor (it should not start). If you get a LARGE amount of coolant coming out of the coolant fill, its safe to assume your coolant seals are blown. Also, a good indication is a fuel/exhaust smell in the coolant.


Report back with your findings.

 

Or you will sometimes end up with a geyser from the filler. Does your heat work, as in does it blow hot air when it's warmed up?

 

I hope it wasn't the "shutter" valve. They are only used on 1st gens. See http://www.mazdatrix.com/faq/shutter.htm