Hi Everyone,

I rebuilt my first 13B-REW this weekend. I followed the FSM closely and everything went smoothly.

I have one question in regards to Apex seal spring installation. All these parts were new and I also had an old Atkins rebuild video to help me out.

Reviewing the whole process in my head today there is one step which has me a little worried. For the apex seals, once I had spec'd my side seals and installed them along with corner seals and corner seal springs I turned the rotor on its side and put Vasoline into the apex seal slot. I then installed the long then short spring, ensured that the seal moved smoothly, then covered with more vasoline rotated 120 degrees and did the same for the other seals. I used an old water seal over the rotor to hold everything in place. When I assembled I laid the rotor down in position on the iron, with seals and springs installed. Then lowered the housing down over the rotor. I had a buddy who pressed lightly on the three apex seals while I lowered the housing so it dropped into place smoothly.

I completed the engine assembly, set the end play (.0035) and spun the engine. I hear two nice chugs with every rotation of the shaft.

I am being extremely cautious as this is my first build but is there any risk that both long and short springs have not been seated correctly using this method? This is a Mazda 2mm 2pc seal with corner piece glued on. Just playing this through my mind I can imaging a scenario where the small spring may not be seated correctly in its recess?

For future builds I will insert springs and seals after rotor and housing are stacked. While the engine is on the stand should I tear this down again and reinstall seals and springs as per the FSM?

Nick