so this is the 3rd time i have been through this motor.. last 2 times i used the atkins seals and both times while tuning i detonated only once and it blew a seal apart. this time i am going to try stock over the counter 3 piece mazda seals. i would like to try a set of ra classics but im on a time crunch for an event on the 27th.. i have to have the motor build put in tuned and have a few shake down runs first... will the 3 piece seals at least get me through the tune and probable ping? then hold up for a 4 hr run on a 4 mile track? its the last event and i just cant miss it...

 

atkins seals are softer than oem but neither should be blowing on you. it sounds like there might be another issue

 

mazda seals are supposed to be the best!

 

You can't buy 3 piece seals anymore. </thread>

 

well... are you doing a whole rebuild each time, including replacing housings that were either destroyed when the seal(s) went or shouldn't have been reused in the first place? also, aren't you supposed to break in rebuilds before flogging them? you didn't mention a break in period at all.

 

break in is a given. 1k miles with no boost. i dont use trashed housings. every time i went through the motor i would replace the torn up housings and rotors. i picked up the 3 piece seals from an old guy that had them. he rebuilt my brothers motor which is still running flawlessly but its also a stock dd set at 6lbs that he rarely boosts anyway. the seals are still in the mazda packaging.


the seals are either cracking or chipping when the motor pings. it runs great for the break in and up until i start pushing it and tuning. im just on a learning curve.

 

mazda stopped making 3-piece seals for a reason. They wallow out apex seal slots.. and destroy rotors. You should stick with 2piece..

 

yea and IMO 1k is pushing it for a break-in period

 

it just needs to get through this one event. so i am going to try it out then ill tear it down to see how things look on the inside. i dont have a shortage of t2 engine parts so i can afford to tinker and try new things to come up with the best possible combo for my needs. thanks guys.

 

1k miles for a break-in.... wow. im at 1500 with another 1k to go.... hahahaha...
2 piece seals should be fine. . . just try taking it easy while tuining...haha

 

1500 miles is good for a break in....no boost for 1000 then a slow introduction to boost for 500 miles...

I use atkins seals and have had no issues with them....
OEM seals are the best though...