I am looking at purchasing a JDM 13B-REW engine block without transmission from a local importer. What do I need to look out for to verify that the block is good. Just to clarify, I am looking to purchase the engine as a spare block with plans for rebuilding. Since there is no transmission, how do I verify the rotors and housings are in good condition ?

 

Nothing you can visually do. I would grab the 2-1/8" socket and spin the engine over from the flywheel and listen for the pops out of the exhaust. If the engine has decent compression, you will also feel resistance every 180 degrees. Also keep in mind if you have no compression, it doesn't mean the engine is blown. It just may be carbon locked. My 20b was like that when I got it.

 

Its just like a compression test where there should be three ' pops ' per rotor correct ? From the pics the outside looks in good shape for its intended use so I will be taking a look in the next few hours.

Here's the link

jdmflorida.com/details/rx7-fd-13l-rotary-fd3s

 

What I did with mine was pulled the plugs and felt the compression pulses turning it over manually

 

Just got back from looking at the motor. I got two strong consistent pulses and a weak to non existent pulse when cranking over by hand. I took some pics

 

Being no expert, does anyone see any red flags from the above pics ? Like I stated above this is just being used for a spare block.

 

Your using it as a spare so I wouldn't worry too much about. Buying used engines (and remans) will always be a crap shoot.

 

Turn the motor over. I like to keep the plugs in and like T-von said, there should be resistance very 180 degrees. If it doesn't turn easily, don't force it. You could put some atf down the runners and let it sit overnight, then see if it will work loose. Also if you haven't noticed, that is an automatic motor. If you use it with a manual trans 2 of the trans bolts will have to be left out. I prefer to swap a manual real iron on. With all JDM motors, plan to have to rebuild it. You never know where they came from and how they were stored. The last several I had customers bring me were rusted from sitting with water in them and one even had a mouse nest and peanuts inside!

 

Thanks for the advice guys. Went ahead and made the purchase and will try and source a rear iron from a manual later this year.