I have my entire sunroof assembly out of the car currently and I want to prep the metal for paint. Does anyone have some photos or quick description on how to remove the actual panel from the assembly without damaging anything?

 

The FSM has instructions that show you how to disassemble the sunroof while it's in the car, ref pages S46 & S47 below. Basically if it's in the car, the first step is to open the sunroof to the vent position, remove the sunroof headliner trim, then the nuts that hold the sunroof panel to the track assembly are accessible. But if you have the whole assembly out of the car, in the closed position with the sunroof headliner trim still installed, it appears you'll need to manually crank the sunroof open to the vent position to get the headliner trim piece off.

 

That is super helpful. I don't have a copy of the factory service manual. I'll have to see if I can find one. I have all the parts manuals but they aren't as helpful.

 

Try this link for the FSMs: https://www.wright-here.net/cars/rx7/manuals.html

 

just be advised that "without damaging anything" is a relative concept on a 30 year old car. Brittle rubber and plastics don't quite go back together the same way.

 

Thanks

hah yes I am well aware. I stripped my car down to the bare unibody for a full restoration.