journey

I have an 89 rx-7 N/A, and i'm wondering what should be done first, and how much can be done before the ECU needs to be replaced. From looking arround it sounds like the best things do to are the RB exaust, and some sort of intake mod. One that seemed interesting to me was where you replace the stock air box(i think thats what you call it, behind the right side light) with a K/N filter, and replace the headlight top with a scoop. One other thing is i'm wondering how much can be done and still be C/A emissions legal. Would a high-flow cat affect that?

thanks

rico05

Try using the search function at the top of the page. If that dosen't work, PM me, and I will help ya out w/ a good starting list! Basic idea, more air into the engine, less weight for the engine to move. To stay CA legal, there is very limited things you can do, but we can still help!

Coolidge

Do you even need to replace the NA ECU without the addition of turbo/sc/nos or a really crazy port job?

Start off with full exhaust system and an intake.

rico05

The ECU needs to be reprogrammed if you have a CRAZY port job, or WWWAAYYY too much fuel. These cars are really easy to mod. First, get a universal K&N cone filter, and an adapter plate. Do not spend more than $40 for the intake. I spent $225 for mine, and all it does is look pretty! Next, get a good cat back. SIngle or dual, it does not matter, but you do not have to spend a ton of $$ on it. Then, a Racing Beat header. I am making my exhaust illegal but we do not test here in Tx!!! Decide what you are willing to compromise. I am removing the A/C and P/S on mine. I am porting the hell outta my middle and lower intake, and probally 2mm Hurley apex seals, and a FD fuel pump. Then, a 100 shot of good ol N2O. After that, I will probally upgrade my drivetrain to a TII, and get a Mazdaapeed 3 puck clutch and pressureplate. then, I will reprogram my ECU, or just get a damn Haltech. This is my mods list. I want 225-250 rear wheel horse power. Hope this helps. Do your mods in stages. Start w/ intake and exhaust, then, get creative!!!! Good luck!

rico05

Oh, and the air intake scoop really does not do much from what I have read other than look cool. I am building one of my own, and then I shall see...

vaughnc

State I mods for an NA are ususally:

Exhaust, downpipe (eliminates pre-cat), perf cat or midpipe (check your emission laws), performance exhaust, perf air intake, cold air box (check www.mariahmotorsports.com for a nice one), fresh air headlight intake (also mariahmotorsports), replacement chip (takes advantage of the better exhaust & intake)

Stage II can be:
minor street port, better ignition system, replacement chip (takes advantage of the streetport, exhaust, and intake), slightly larger fuel injectors, stronger clutch, elimination of belt driven fan (ie electric) etc..

I'd also recommend running readline synthetic in the trans & rear diff. Also check out the 1 time teflon oil/engine treatment that helps recover lost HP.

Stage III can be:
A minor turbo kit (no intercooler) that can give some good HP improvements without running too much PSI (3-5 PSI MAX). You'd want to run gagues obviously including air/fuel, coolant, boost, and exhaust temp. You might also consider an aftermarket ECU like haltech to better control engine.