hmbgirl

I just bought an 87 RX-7 and the stereo is dead. The car is in great shape except for a few minor problems. How do I begin troubleshooting. The prior owner died and I bought the car from his son who swore the stereo used to work last time he drove it.

I also need the fuses in the fuse box identified for amp value. The fuse box cover is missing and so were a few fuses. The wipers didn't work when I bought it but it was only a blown fuse...so far.

Thanks
carolyn.reynolds@sbcglobal.net

cluosborne

Hi, I think you can find that info in the FSM (factory service manual) at fc3s.org. There are wiring diagrams of the stereo. The amp value for the stereo is 10 Amps, I'm not sure about the wipers (maybe 15 or 20 amps, but don't quote me on it).

I'd say the best place to start trouble shooting an electrical problem is to see if the accessories are getting power (check the fuses).

I've read that the soldering points on the wiper switch were poorly done from the factory, so you'll need to remove the switch and resolder the connections. Procedures on this are available on the internet, just do a keyword search and you'll find it. Also, you'll want to resolder the clock/idiot lights (if the clock has been flickering, or the lights go on), the CPU (which controls seat belt indicator, warning buzzer), the Logicon (a/c heater controls, and maybe the headlamp switch if they're also giving you trouble.

To do the repairs, you need a soldering iron, solder, a desoldering braid (to remove the old solder), philips and flat heat screw drivers, and the procedures (which I recommend you read beforehand).

I also recommend you do a search in this forum, as this question has been asked and answered several times and information is available.

hmbgirl

I did a search and found the fuse box cover info. Thanks.

I'll keep this info on the soldering for a warm sunny weekend. Being in sunny southern California, it'll happen soon.

I might try to make the New Year's Day ride down here. I've only had my RX7 for two weeks now. And I love her!!!

Icemark

That is incorrect. The Wiper switch does not fail from solder points, but from a relay that overheats and fails. Common to that would be a wiper switch that only works in the on position, and not intermittent or high positions.

How ever the CPU and warning/idiot lights made by Imasen for Mazda on the FCs' do tend to have cold solder points.