rx7 only starts sometimes
 

hey i have an 88 rx7 with about 138k on it. its really weird it will start and run but then it wont start the next time i use it. i've used the egi fuse mtheod most of the time it doesnt work anymore. then sometimes it sounds like it doesnt have any compression but when it does start it runs fine. sometimes it cranks slow and also sometimes i have to push the clutch up and dont for it to crank could this be just the starter? i know some stuff about cars but im no master machanic. please suggest some ideas.

I have the same problem with my 10SE. Not a tech guy. I bought new battery and it worked instantaneously, but over time the problem arose again. I can also get it going by jumpering the fuel pump some times. One thing I noticed is that I do not smell fuel even if the pump is engaged for 10 seconds? Maybe there is a air leak allowing the fuel line to vacate fuel?

Rob

There are a lot of things going on.

1) Slow cranking is a weak battery or problem with the charging system (alternator, battery terminals, battery cables, etc...)

2) Not starting when hot is primarily Mazda's fault, and something that happens to a lot of S4s. Read this thread for some info on it: https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generation-specific-1986-1992-17/looking-car-has-hot-start-problems-499744/.

3) If the starter does not turn over at all (and the battery isn't dead), resistance built up along the start circuit could be your problem: https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generation-specific-1986-1992-17/ive-solves-2nd-gen-sticky-starter-mystery-896013/.

4) If the engine won't start without the fuel pump test connector jumped, the fuel cut switch in the AFM may not be working properly. Test the AFM/replace.

Also if you aren't already doing this try pulling the bottom two spark plugs out when doing the EGI fuse pulling method for de-flooding. It'll help get some of the fuel out of the engine when cranking.