Hi Everyone,

I bumped into a problem with the R1’s power steering system during an autocross event. After a quick succession of corners, I ended up “pumping the pump”. Steering effort increased significantly for a few seconds. Can you guys let me know if you had any similar experiences? Does this sound like an inherent design issue or do I have a mechanical problem? Note that the PS cooling lines were not installed.
If it’s the former, I want to try and increase the pump’s flow and drop the output pressure (to decrease the power assist). For this I would have to muck with the flow control valve spring and maybe the pulley diameter, I think. This would change the flow, but what about the pressure? I think the steering is over assisted. Does the RX-7 have a torsion rod controlled spool valve? The manual only talks about a pinion shaft.
Any input is appreciated.

 

Check out the pictures here for the answer to your pinion question.

http://www.zeroglabs.com/rx7/steering.htm

Brian