I am interested in putting my 1993 Rx7 rotary back in top condition. I have white smoke coming out of the exhaust on start up on a 115,000 mile rotary. However, I live in Fresno, CA and I have not been able to find mechanics that will work on my Rx7 here. Anyone know of a reliable mechanic in Fresno or close by. Thanks.

 

This isn't really a technical question but...

The FD is what you can consider a specialty car. There weren't that many imported so not many mechanics know how to work on them. As a result, you really need to find a good shop which means you'll have to travel a bit. Or do all the work yourself.

A mechanic in Fresno won't have any experience with an FD. You'll either need to come up to the Bay Area or down to LA. Labor is cheaper in LA.

White smoke on startup could just be condensation. If it continues non stop, then it might be coolant. Are you stationed in Fresno (military) or are you a local?

 

Agreed with everything that gracer posted. We don't have any rotor mechanics here in the valley. Either got to go up north or down south.

 

Thanks for your response. I am a local. I believe the white smoke is coolant as on start up I can smell the coolant and I need to add coolant every few days although only a small amount. There is never coolant on the garage floor. Not sure I could drive to the bay area or LA with out a problem.

I thought another option might be to add a product to the radiator that seals the gaskets but the negative is it is only a temporary fix.

 

Block seal type stuff is only temporary and also produces issues for later. If you're not planning to dump the car I'd make plans to trailer it or drive it to the shop of your choosing and just get it done.

Call now and get on the schedule. Most good rotary shops can't take you immediately. No coincidence there.

 

Could be weak hose clamps or some real small leak somewhere. These are old cars. Lots of small parts to deal with. Check the 3rd gen FAQ thread and read the links on the various coolant threads to learn how to troubleshoot it yourself or start dialing.

 

Sounds like a seal gone bad with white smoke....especially adding coolant often. Might be less expensive just getting ahold of a rebuilt and finding someone to install it.....I'm located in the central valley and been playing around with my FD for alittle over a year now and still learning it...