Is it a general assumption that stock NA automatics suck? I bought this pretty nice shape FC last fall and i couldnt help but notice it has extremely poor low end power. Above lets say 3500-4k rpms it seems decent, but upon accel from a stop im willing to bet i could outrun the thing on foot for about 15 feet or so..
Afterall this is my first rx7, and rotary for that matter so i have no clue what to expect.
Just having to put the pedal almost to the floor (from a stop) to get out onto traffic isnt the greatest feeling until it hits what id consider the power band..
Just wondering if maybe i have something that needs attention.
The car has a nice ,one off, full 2.5" dual exhaust - no cats. stock engine ~70k miles. seems to run nice and smooth.

chris

 

Not experienced with autos, but I wouldn't think it should be that slow.

I'd recommend a general tune up and compression test.
If that doesn't help, start checking out your fuel system - filter, pump, pump wiring, injectors.

Basically, ensure that your engine is still healthy.

Someone else may be able to chime in with anything specific to the auto that might cause this.

 

The automatic transmissions aren't very great, but it shouldn't be totally gutless off the line. Maybe you're just not used to the lack of low end torque that a rotary has? The power band of an NA will be roughly 3500 rpm to redline.

That being said, a good tune up and over check of the systems would be a good idea. The auxilliary port actuators don't always work (especially on S4s: '86-'88), so check them out. They contribute a lot to the top end power of the engine.

 

The automatics aren't great, but they don't suck too badly either.

Make sure the aux ports are working. Without cats, I bet they aren't and that makes for a large low end torque loss.

http://www.aaroncake.net/rx-7/6porttest.htm

 

Thanks for the info guys. You are right im probably not used to the lower low end torque of a rotary.. but i really didnt think it should be as bad as it is. I appreciate the help, ive been finding new how-to's and helpful info every day...

Ill check out the ports and do a comp. test to see what happens. From what i understand, if the air pump isnt working properly (i.e. a broken/slipping belt) this will also contribute to the sluggishness of the car also, right? Just want to make sure im correctly understanding everything ive been reading and how this engine operates...

Now i have to worry about the leaking metering pump - just noticed theres a nice patch of oil under the middle of the car. Nice huh...

Chris

 

On a series 5 car (89-91), the air pump controls the 5/6 ports.

OMP rebuild kits are sold on one of the major rotary websites, although I can't remember which, and are reasonably priced. I believe it is Pineapple Racing that sells them.