I purchased an all original 1984 RX7 GSL SE about 2 years ago with low milage. The first year I drove it a bit and not so much last year or this year so far. I decided to start taking it out and enjoying it. I know, about time :-)

Yesterday the lower rad hose went, so I'm now going to replace the upper and lower hoses. I'm wondering what else I should replace on the car?

When I bought it, I changed all the fluids, all the belts, and installed new spark plugs.

I know I have to replace the bushings as the car doesn't handle quite right. Anything else I should add on the must do list?

Many thanks,
Duane

 

A new Alpine sound system is a must.

Seriously though...check the rubber brake lines carefully. I thought my stock 85 was 100% when I went to get it certified but the mechanic showed me the LARGE cracks in both front lines. Not good!

Good luck.

g-man

 

I can't stress enough how much of a good idea it is to replace any rubber hosing, esp. vacuum lines. they will only lead to more annoying problems down the road.

 

Also check your coolant overflow and windshield washer fluid reservoirs for embrittlement and cracks. They're surprisingly cheap if you have to replace them.

 

Thanks for the great tips.

I think replacing all the hoses makes sense. Is there a supplier that sells a kit complete with all the hoses?

I already ordered the upper and lower rad hose as I want to get it back on the road, but I think replacing everything makes sense.

BTW, I was able to get 10% at Carling Mazda by mentioning the club and the fact other dealers offer a discount. I'll post it to discount area after I get the parts and the discount ;-)

Thanks,
Duane

 

Definitely replace the bushings. Even with my upgraded suspsension the bushings made a massive difference not only in handling but in regards to road noise and smoother highway crusing. Get the poly bushings from RE-Speed, and put them EVERYWHERE!!. Unless your going to be tracking your car with stock springs and dampers you won't have an issue. On top of that it is significantly cheaper than replacing them with OEM bushings since you need to replace the entire control arm to do it that way. Check the forum on www.sterlingmetalworks.com for a thread with some tips I wrote up after my experience.

If it's in the budget I would also recommend using braided stainless steel lines. They make for a much more consistent brake feel and better feedback. I can heel toe downshift and the brake pedal never moves past the same point every time.

You mentioned fluids, belts and spark plugs, but did you change the fuel filter, air filter, plug wires, distributor cap and rotor as well? If not those should be on the list as well. Especially the fuel filter as they are prone to clogging if you even look at them the wrong way.

If you find the car still doesn't handle quite right then it's time to step up to RE-Speed bits. www.re-speed.com. Lot's of great parts, and you can order through RPM Motorsports in Breslau (Kitchener).