I've been poring over the Mazda parts catalog for the '85 RX-7 and I'm trying to confirm what I need to convert the front end of my '85 S model to use the larger GSL-SE front rotors. So far, I've got the following on my list:

GSL-SE Front rotors w/calipers
Shocks and springs?

Is there anything else I need? Is there any reason I can't just buy new GSL-SE front rotors and calipers rather than searching out a donor car? I feel like I must be missing some essential piece needed from a donor car that I can't just buy at a parts store.

fm

 

Looking again at the parts catalog, even the LCAs are the same between models. So front rotors, calipers, shocks and springs is what I think I need. If anyone else can confirm/refute my suspicions, please do.

fm

 

If you can, I would switch everything and get the 4x114 bolt pattern. It could be more costly though. check CL for cheap parts.

 

make sure you get the caliper brackets also....

 

Check the length go the brake hoses too.

 

Thanks all! My point in doing the front spindle swap is so that I'll get 4x114.3 hubs to match the GSL-SE I'll be retrofitting.

Caliper brackets...easy to forget. Thanks.

Brake hoses...I checked the parts catalog and it appears that the front flexible brake hoses and master cylinder are the same among the S/GS and GSL/GSL-SE models. The rear hoses are different (in that the GSL/GSL-SE have flexible hoses while the S/GS models do not seem to have them).

fm

 

Just a follow-up on the parts needed, in case anyone else was searching. To do a GSL-SE front spindle conversion on a GSL, GS, or S, you'll need:

• GSL-SE rotors
• GSL-SE brake calipers and brackets
• GSL-SE backing plate (usually only found attached to the shock tubes/spindle setup)
• GSL-SE shocks/springs

fm