Not keeping idle
 

I recently bought a 1985 Mazda rx7. The car will not keep idle. The distributer cap and throttle position sensor has been replaced. Anyone know why the car will not keep idle? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

welcome to the board. :)

for right now, i'm assuming your '85 is NOT an SE. if it is, please say so because there will be other things to consider. for now, check:

1. vacuum lines
2. idle speed adjustment and idle mixture screws
3. fuel filter
4. timing

It is not an SE. I have checked vacuum lines, changed the fuel filter, replaced gas lines, electrolysis on gas tank (car had been sitting for a long time, lots of rust in tank). Although the vacuum lines have been checked and replaced, when spraying carburetor cleaner, the engine still revs. I'm currently seeking a mechanic or shop with Rotary Engine knowledge. If I can't find someone and fix the vehicle, I may have to sell. 😞

well, if it's reacting to carburetor cleaner then you pretty much have your answer as to what's wrong. you just need to locate the leak. do you have a copy of the vacuum line diagrams? get an FSM if you haven't done so already.

what general area are you getting the reaction?

a fairly common line that seems to break/melt/crack and is not so easy to locate is on the intake manifold itself (at the rear of the engine - near the tranny and exhaust). check that one.

on a totally separate note ... if you are willing to consider selling the car over this, then maybe it would be best. these cars are NOT unreliable by any sensible stretch, but they are old and they will require repairs and care that can be frustrating to the uninitiated. just a bit of cheap advice and i promise that it's not meant in any mean-spirited way.