Finally got an FD!!
 

Not my first post, but I finally got pics - cuz I know you guys like pics :)

I've been after an FD since 1993 when I was sitting in the dealer ready to buy a new R1 for $24k. I didn't wind up buying it b/c of uncertainties with my job back then. Been regretting it ever since. Every spring over the last 10 years or so I would check on prices and take test drives whenever I saw a local one. This year I finally said fuck it. Needed to satisfy my lust :)

I bought it pretty much as you see here, except the engine was blown. It had a few desirable mods - PowerFC, R1 seats, Blitz SMIC, DP, Konis, big radiator, new paint etc. Since I know what goes into owning and tuning a rotary (having owned 3 TurboIIs), I was reluctant to buy one where I had not done the engine myself. So this one was it. I could do the motor my way and not worry.

I bought it in May, researched engine builders on this forum and wound up at J&R Performance in Elmont, NY for a rebuild - aka SmokinJoeRacing.net. Joe is a great guy to be a customer of and knows his shit. Very service oriented and patient and has been steering me in the right direction with motor/car work. I just finished breaking in the engine last night. The motor is pulling 16-18 of vacuum at idle. Real tight! I like :D

Now that I hit the 1,000 mile mark (in 10 days) I'm going in for final tuning. Haven't had the car under any boost yet. Just light load and moderate revs. Can't wait to start seeing what she's going to do after tuning when I can start really driving it!

I'd like to thank you guys for the help thus far in a few of my other threads - exhaust selection, heat issues, buying misc parts etc. This is a great board and I'm happy to be driving a Rotary again - especially this one!

Pics can be found here: http://www.b2t2.com/rx7/

-Alberto

Congrats! Looks good.

its feels good to finally get one eh? Love the hood, how do you like the blitz IC?

Feels soooo good! The Blitz seems good, but to be honest with you - I don't know. Haven't pushed the car yet. However, my builder has repeatedly told me that he is impressed with it. That says something...

And it has my shift knob on it!!! :D congrats dude....I think you take the cake for the most patience in waiting to get an FD...I waited a little over 8 months...Doubt I could wait 10 years.

Thanks apneablue. I had 2 Turbo IIs, 1 Convertible Turbo II conversion and a BMW e36 to hold me over, but its just not the same as an FD....

well it looks pretty small and there is no duct going to it as far as I can see so it's useless

But congrats on the car and getting the engine you want in there by a good builder. There's no better feeling. Did you guys use new rotor housings? Was the motor really messed up?

Great job man I remember when I got mine I was so happy but it had to be fucked up by a shop. Maybe I'll get a chance to start over one day like you and I'll fall in love all over again :D

The front looks damn nice.

Snook - yeah better IC ducting and probably an IC fan is on my list of things to do. So is intake ducting and a few other things. Only so much time in a weekend... The front apex seal disintegrated and the whole front housing is new. The others were fine. All NEW bearings, silicon seals etc.

Thanks for the comments :)