Having trouble starting my rx7. It turns and sounds like it wants to start.

Found a YouTube video that has the same issue.

https://youtu.be/FaY6WVi6Qxw

Anyone ever experienced this? I’ve already tried unflooding it. Added fuel. Check sparked. Only have been able to turn on two time, but eventually it dies down.

 

First step always do a compression test, I chased my tail and finally found the issue… low compression

 

Any difference starting when it is hot or cold? Definitely have the compression tested before changing anything.

 

I have not yet I don’t have the tool but wouldn’t the compression be good if it was able to start twice?

 

Short answer, no. I drove my car for a year with low compression, but if it's too low it won't start at all. First thing first, do a compression test. After you get the results, we'll proceed from there. Could also be flooded. Check the 3rd Gen FAQ section for de-flooding procedure's, but frequent flooding is also a sign of low compression so you'll still need a compression test.

 

I saved you the trouble...but you're still gna need a compression test. Also, check and see how far you are from IR Performance. They're located in Monroe Township, NJ.

Deflooding your Rotary | Essex Rotary (essexrotaryspecialists.com)

 

thanks for the info, I appreciate it man! Im going to try and pull the plugs and check it out. IR is about 25 minutes from me. I’ll give them a call and see what they say.

 

Update: Finally got her to start.

Drained all the fuel out. Put in new gas. Pulled the plugs and noticed a lot of black oil on it. Removed the EGI fuse and cranked it a couple times to remove anything inside.

Put in new NGK plugs and It started with ease.

She does run a bit rough rn but I’m thinking an injector is open and dumping fuel causing it to flood or something. Anyone know where the rpms should be running at idle?

 

Had the exact same thing happening to mine. Coolant temp sensor had failed and was being read as some temp well below freezing on a warm day. ECU started dumping fuel and I would get a few small pops or farts here and there with the occasional sec or two of running. New temp sensor and it fired right up. If you have a PFC, use the sensor check to see what your coolant temp sensor is showing for voltage. Check all the wiring from the sensor to the ECU to rule out corrosion / or damage to a wire.

 

Glad to hear you are making progress. You should still get the compression checked so you have a baseline and can better prioritize what comes next. I would also test the coolant seals.
If it were me I don't think I could sleep at night not knowing the results