Hello I have change the gasket from front cover from rx8 engine, i suppose that the procedure is the same with rx7, and i put it all back but i dont check if after loosing the front bolt the thrust bearing stay in place.
I tight the bolt and check the shaft end play and it is ok.
Is that a proof that the thrust bearing stay in correct position ?
Or is better to disassemble and check again?

 

Did you do this while the engine was still in the car or on an engine stand facing up?

 

the engine is out of the car I take out the front cover with the engine sitιng on flloοr with flywheel .
Then I move the engine upside down to clear the gasket from oil pan without the front cover and bolt in place.
After cleaning the oil pan and the bottom from engine I install the front cover still without front bolt I put the oil pan then I tight the bolt.
As you see I install the front bolt last.