ltolisano

The starter and the starter solenoid are different things. The starter is the motor that turns your engine from a standstill, while the solenoid is what engages the starter when you have the key in the start position. The solenoid is usually a smaller cylindrical type of attatchment on the starter, and they are usually separate pieces, but I'm sure some manufacturers have made them as one piece, but I'm pretty sure they can be changed separately on the RX-7, but don't quote me on that!

I'm not sure what your original problem is, but I'm guessing your car won't start. If you turn the key to start and hear a 'click', your solenoid is probably okay, and the starter MIGHT be cooked. If you don't hear the click, it's probably just the solenoid, but could be both.

DJ!

you need to take the starter motor off the car! There should be two 14mm bolts holding the starter on the gearbox. disconnect the battery! When u get the start on the work bench, there two screws and two 8 mm long bolts that hold the cap and the starter together. Once u get the cap off the starter there will be a brush holder and there should be three to four carbon brushes. They should be worn down and thats most likely your problem!!
To get some brushes go to your mazda dealer or your local auto electrician. The clicking noise is the solenoid clicking into the ringgear/firewheel which is normal.
To replace the brushes you need to cut the old ones off the brush holder and solder onto the brush holder. Brushes should only cost you under 10 bucks.
Any more problems message me through the message board.