I am at wits end with a known problem that no one, it seems has an answer for and/or I dont understand the implications of this problem fully. I just purchased my second RX-7, 1988 TII, 94,000 miles on it. The seller was at first asking a whopping $8,000.00 for it, but I got it for $5,000. I may have paid to much for this RX-7 but, because it is almost impossible to find one in such cherry condition I bought it anyway knowing that the compression was low. When I looked at this vehicle I told him all was ok, except I first wanted a compression test done. He agreed and I had it done by a trusted Mazda Dealership. I will give you the results:

#1 5.6 5.4 5.7 267rpm
#2 7.0 8.0 7.3 284rpm
It also fails to pass emissions.

I realize that the comprssion is below the 6.0 min. limit on #1, but I really need to know IF this will be a major problem or if it depends on many other variables, such as altitude, use of proper oil, carbon build up, etc.. I dont even have the owners manual for my car and NO ONE can give me an answer on this! IF there is any way for me to bring that compression up I would love to know about it. I know that you will probably suggest getting a new engine but I hope that you have some GOOD news! Some experts have told me that this engine may run for another 20,000 miles and others say replace it now. It starts fine in the morning and after it has warmed up. The oil pressure guage however will not make it to the 80 mark no matter how hard I push it, unlike my last 1997 which ran higher than normal. Is there any hope for my baby? If so, I would love to have your feed back on this scary thing! By the way, I read in a Mazda brief that I should be running 10W-50 oil in this engine! How on earth can that be? Is this valid? Thanks for whatever help you can give me!
Wayne Manigold
Colorado Springs, CO.

 

TBoost, YOU ARE DA MAN! You have no idea how many nights I have lost sleep over this. I almost feel like having a party over this reply! I cant say thank you enough! Just one more thing please. In my post I asked about the emissions thing also. Since I just picked up the car from the previous owner, is it possible that he could have used an inferior grad fuel, oil, or anything else that would inhibit me from passing emissions? I guess that is sort of trivial since, after this good news, I think I can handle what ever comes next. Thanks again and if you are ever in Colorado let me know; I owe you a beer or 200!
Wayne

 

Wow, I am getting tons of info from all you fine "rotaryheads" out there! Many of you are pointing to the "ATF" treatment, not only from this post but from others as well! So, if it walks like a duck.... . Guess I will try this and see what happens! Thanks and I will update you when or if this fixes the problem (if it IS a problem, some have said cutoff low is 4.6, not 6 as stated by the dealership). Please keep comments coming for I am glued to the screen!