Hey guys! I have stumbled into ownership of a 1984 RX7. I knew the car when it ran, and the guy that owned it had to keep messing with the timing to keep it running. The car would run for a while, then would simply stop running.

I got it because the prior owner's method of twisting the timing around stopped working, and the car turned into a lawn ornament. So, now I am trying to figure out how best to proceed. The motor turns over, it apears to have plenty of spark, and it appears to be getting gas. If this was a "traditional" motor, I would have no problem adjusting the timing, or diagnosing an issue with a timing belt or gear...for the rotory, I have no clue.

ALL suggestions would be appreciated, short of leaving the car as a lawn ornament!
Thanks,
apsychonut

 

Well, if you have seen the spark for yourself and know that it is there, then try this. Remove the distributor cap, set the pulley on the front of the engine so that it lines up with the timing mark, then rotate the dizzy until the rotor is aligned with L1 on the cap. Try to start. If no start, then pour a couple caps full of motor oil down the carb to help rebuild compression (always a problem if flooded). Then try again. Also, you will probably get more (and better) advice if you post in the 1st gen section. Good luck!

 

Also, in the 1st gen section there is a FAQ that answers a lot of questions. It also has a link to some online repair manuals that can help you understand your new obsession. Anyway, stop by the 1st gen area and I'm sure I'll see you around there. Welcome to the forum, you've come to the right place.