What are some things to look for so I know when it is gonna go, mine has 71K and has been driven hard, I hope to get another 10K out of it, but what kinda stuff can I be looking for?

 

First, check out the buyer's guide. It's at http://www.rx7turboturbo.com/robrobinette/buyaused.htm and it describes things like the compression test and coolant pressure test. Mazda dealers do the compression test and have the tool to do it - it's about the only thing I let th edealer do.

Basically, if your compression comes out good and you don't have smoke you can expect it to run well. Thick/lingering white smoke that smells like coolant (especially if the engine is warmed up, you stop it, let it sit a minute, then get the smoke again on restarting it) is bad. White 'smoke' from condensation on a cold engine is normal - it's actually steam.

Just keep your fuel filter changed often (yearly or 15k), you use good gas, change the oil every 3k or less, get your coolant flushed annually, and never drive hard until the engine is well warmed or shut it off real hot.

Dave

 

If the need on the stock temp gauge ever moves above the middle, your motor is already overheated and dead. If its still running at that point, you can expect your coolant seals to be bad and suspect warped housings. Its possible your housing may survive overheating but unlikely. With rotories there really are no "signs" that the motor is on its last leg. When they die they usually have very flashy deaths with lots of smoke and strange noises.

 

Agreed.

 

so I should just be saving money now, ready for it to blow anytime

 

Well, have you had a compression test done? There have been many engines running strong well over 100k miles, so nothings saying it will blow soon. You need to get the tests done to see how your motor is running, then we'll be able to help with estimated longevity.