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New Member - Some questions

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Old 01-27-19, 03:43 PM
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GA New Member - Some questions





This is my first post so bear with me as I learn my way around the site. I have a 1993 RX-7 R1 that I purchased in Nov of '93. It was a one owner with 5K mi. I have had it ever since so know it's history and condition. It has never been wrecked and I have taken good care over the years. I feel that the car is in excellent condition both outside (pictures should show that) and inside. However after 25 years some things need attention and therefore I am trying to get things back into proper condition.The car has about 103K miles most of which were put on during the first 10 years. The last 15 years it has been in my garage and driven occasionally with about 5K put on during that time. I retired in Aug '18 and have more time to begin doing some of the things that are needed. I want to list the items and any suggestions that anyone may have.
1. Speedometer & Tachometer -
-The speedometer and tachometer have worked sporadically during the past few years. Sometimes one would work and or both but at this time they neither one are operating. Any thoughts on what action can be taken?2. Odometer-The odometer is not lit up so can't tell the actual mileage. The fuel, temp and oil gauge work fine.The back lighting on all the gauges work. The local Mazda dealer said that the computer readout to give mileage only started on the '96 models so they are no help on obtaining the actual mileage. Looks to me that with the electronic readout on the odometer there would be some type of backup method to read.3. Radio & CD -Neither is operating. I did have some repair work done years ago on the radio but have no idea if that is even possible today. Would like everything as stock as possible so interested in seeing if there is anyone that may know of possible repair shop.4. Check engine light -This will come on occasionally. Usually after the car has been running for 5-15 minutes. Mazda dealer said that it was because the speedometer was not working but I don't believe that since it didn't come on until recently.Other than the above mentioned items the car is overall in very good condition.

I welcome any comments available.
Old 01-28-19, 04:00 AM
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I'm pretty sure there are other threads dealing with dash display problems. I'm not very tech-savy but I think most of them boil down to failed solder joints. They can be repaired. This is just one of the more length threads....
https://www.rx7club.com/interior-ext...epair-1055763/

As for the stock stereo, a search in the 3rd Gen. Technical section and/or in the Interior/Exterior/Audio section might turn up some information. IIRC there was a thread that mentioned a shop that repairs these older units and it was in in the SE.

If I could make one other suggestion...if you're not a DIY'er, you might want to search for a rotary engine specialty shop in your area and NOT take it to the dealer. You can search in the regional forums for such a shop. Or when you have a sufficient post-count, post a thread asking others in your area. You, more than most know how old the car is. It was never a sold in high numbers and not imported after 1995...23-24 years ago. It's likely that dealership technicians weren't even born when your car was new and had never seen under the hood of a FD RX7 before you brought your car in.
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tompphillips98 (01-28-19)
Old 01-28-19, 05:29 AM
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I have had great experiences with Mazcare in Marietta. For me it's an hour away, but well worth the drive when i have needed something.
Good luck with the car! I hope to see you out on the road!
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Old 01-28-19, 10:48 AM
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welcome. if you can pull the cel code we'd be happy to help. There is a code for no signal from vehicle speed sensor but its likely your gauge cluster is getting the signal, just not operating properly with that signal.

Radio/cd player, check your fuses.
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Old 01-28-19, 07:56 PM
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Thanks for the feedback. I did find a thread on the odometer and the faulty capacitors and working my way through it. I got some good info now to see what I can do with it. I will definite do more follow up on the radio and the potential of a rotary specialist in the area. Agree that the Mazda dealer is not the most suitable due to the reasons you gave. Thanks again!
Old 01-28-19, 07:58 PM
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Thanks for the info. I live in Brunswick so a distance away but I will keep it as an option.
Old 01-28-19, 08:01 PM
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Thanks and I will see what I can learn about the cel code. Good to know you are in JAX as I am located in Brunswick. Might look you up the next time I am down that way. Car is currently at Tom Bush but shouild pick it up this week. Thanks again.
Old 01-29-19, 10:48 AM
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Originally Posted by tompphillips98
Thanks and I will see what I can learn about the cel code. Good to know you are in JAX as I am located in Brunswick. Might look you up the next time I am down that way. Car is currently at Tom Bush but shouild pick it up this week. Thanks again.
I'd be willing to help any time! Just shoot me a PM.
Old 01-31-19, 09:39 PM
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It's interesting that the FD I'm currently looking at has the three problems you listed above.
My plans were to replace the dash and change out the head unit but I'm going to stick around and see how this issue gets solved..
Old 02-01-19, 12:22 PM
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I sense that this is a common issue with the car mostly due to age of components. I will try to keep everyone informed asIi hopefully make progress. I am planning on tackling the speedometer first.
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