Has anyone attempted to rebuild their own motor. Is there any machining involved and can the average person do it?

 

The main thing is if you have the tools to make it happen. The actual rotary engine is fairly simple.

There is a video which is highly recommended (along with the FSM) if you plan on taking on the task:

http://www.rotaryaviation.com/overhaul_video.htm

 

No machining involved. The whole engine can be put together with 10mm, 12mm, 17mm, 19mm sockets/wrenches. You'll need a torque wrench for the tension bolts, a flat tip screw driver, a press, and the press tools for the rotor/stationary gear bearings, silicone sealant, petroleum jelly, bottle of oil and super glue(for the oil pump sheer key). That's just a list off the top of my head...but should be damn close to what you need.

 

Getting a press isn't hard - what are these press tools you're referring to? Are they hard to come by / borrow / buy?

Also, I just got hold of some depth and outside micrometers - should I keep them for FD tranny / engine work?

Thx

Dave

 

I don't know about the fd but the fc I hear you can basically pull it out with your bare hands, once you have it parts.

 

If you want maximum compression and longer engine life, you should have the side housings lapped.
This is considered machining!

Also to increase compression and lower blowby, the new side seals should be hand fitted which requires manual sanding or grinding. Once again machining.

If any stat gear or rotor bearing is out of tolerance or worn, they have to be replaced; machining.

 

Side seals can be fitted with a dremel tool...I guess it could be considered "machining".

I mentioned you need a press for the stationary/rotor bearings...I guess that could be considered "machining" too.

Get your end/intermediate housing lapped! I believe mazdatrix does it for a fairly cheap price.

 

The press tools are mazda specific. They allow you to press the rotor/stationary gear bearings out and then press them back in to the proper depth. I don't think they're really expensive, but I wouldn't know...friend of mine bought them for our "shop". I also forgot to mention to purchase a flywheel lock/54mm socket(flywheel). Same friend of mine bought the mazda one for about $30~ I think. mazdatrix sells theirs for the same price.

If your using new side seals for your rotors, you'll need the micrometer to check spacing between the side seal and the 2 corner seals on either side.

Don't worry about the tranny....stock 5 speed has been shown to handle 500+ hp. First thing to break in the drive train is the stock diff....then the axles....