KookiDowg

iTrader: (5)

Whether it be a reputable shop or a backyard mechanic, anybody who knows the SD Rotary scene quite well that can lead me to the right directions for my Rotary needs for when the time comes when I finally obtain one again? I only know about Jim's Rotary "shop" in El Cajon as of right now.

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

I've heard of Jim's, never seen it. Grew up in El Cajon. I have a buddy on here, knows the RX in and out that helps me, in East County. Backyard mechanic/ engineer. Give me a shout when you get one, I'll tell you who he is. We both have FDs.

KookiDowg

iTrader: (5)

Awesome, thanks man! I'm mainly pertaining into an S4 Turbo II FC but the 13B is still in the same realm as you FD guys so yeah, I'll definitely hit you up when the time comes for me when I'm in the market for my second FC. Mainly, I would love to get your guys input before me impulsively giving my money to a seller due to personal experience and knowing my dumbass self sometimes lol.

Yes mods, I know that there are tons of these threads already for San Diego but I'd rather not bring one up from the dead and have ourselves an updated SD thread instead.

Natey

iTrader: (19)

Home
Tri-Point Engineering
MAZDATRIX for Mazda RX7, RX8, Rotary Engine Parts and Accessories

Here's a few to start with. You might have to drive a little bit, but that's rotary engine ownership for ya.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

You can try:

Aero Auto repair
9756 Aero Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
(858) 467-9999
aeroautorepairsandiego.com

They used to be Z-Whizz and specialize in Nissan Z's and Rx-7's. I've never been but I hear that they are pretty good, but on the expensive side.

KookiDowg

iTrader: (5)

This is great! Keep these shop names coming...even though I created this thread with intentions of any hopes for any Rotary reliable shops in SD but meh I sort of saw this coming. I will have to look into the guys of Aero Auto Repair, thanks!

I guess I will add my inputs on other shops from my previous experiences with my first FC and just list any other shops at around SoCal.

Its Garage Life (Daniel Kuo is a great dude who was happy enough to get my irons bridgeported and rotor bearings replaced in the same day knowing I drove all the way from SD)
Angel Motorsport (Hear nothing but good things about both Vargas' Rotary shop in LA and the other at the east coast)
PalmTree Rotary (Purchased FD housings for such a great deal and I can't remember who I talked to but I believe the owner gave me really good tips for my build at the time)
DNA Garage

Unrelated note:
Who is the driver with the stock red GTUs? I've seen the same person driving at the 8 going to El Cajon and at an in-n-out in Eastlake. Clean GTUs is clean

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

Hear mixed reviews about Aero, but yeah, basically in S.D. you fix it yourself or make a trek to L.A. I'm just trying to find someone to do bodykit work for a decent price and having trouble let alone engine work. S.D isn't rotary friendly, except the roads. Gotta love Palomar and Cuyamaca/Julian drives.

Natey

iTrader: (19)

Body kit work? Bring that thing down to TJ and get it done cheap. There are some good auto body shops and painters down there. Just do some homework 1st.

My friend got his Dodge Dart painted, upholstered and basically brought back to new looking for peanuts.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

^+1. I had my FD painted down there 10 years ago.

In fact, I've been meaning to take my 71 ghia for a complete resto.

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

10 yrs ago I would go down there drink and watch fights, but a lot has changed in 10 yrs. Not sure I would trust leaving my RX down there and coming back with all its pieces intact anymore. Not unless it was a trusted recommended shop.

Natey

iTrader: (19)

haha for real. I definitely hear ya there. Don't be driving out to the desert with your FD and a huge bag of weed and try to go camping or anything. I just tripped out on how good my friends Dart looks. It's a white '64 convertible with red on white interior and looks nice. He lives in O-side but drives all around the area looking for surf. Maybe you'll see it around.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

Actually 10 years ago TJ was much, much worse. But my insurance covered 70 miles into MX so I knew I was cool.

FYI- I was quoted here in the US $1800 worth of damage because stupid people with stupid trucks hit me 3 different times. But down there I paid $2300 for the repair that included a change of color from montego blue to velocity yellow. the price included removal of all windows, seals, door panels, a 99 wing (sealed the holes after removal), and gutting the trunk for paint (I told them to not to touch under the hood). They also used 5 year dupont paint and 1 1/2 gallons of clear in the process. Since my engine was blown at the time, I drove into MX (ha ha that was fun) but for the way back they hooked me up with a tow truck that had the ability to cross the border. They were awesome...

Hey Natey,
Can you ask your friend who did his upholstery? I really need to do my ghia....

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

Honest question, are you Hispanic? I've found they tend to take us (white guys) for a ride but are pretty fair to other Hispanics. My daughter's mom is Hispanic and the diff. being there with and without her was huge.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

Yes I am. But dont feel too bad as they tend to take anyone that isn't local for a ride as well. What really helps is speaking the language though. And most importantly being informed and knowing when someone is trying to take advantage

The shop that I went to treated me very fairly. It was deep into TJ and away from all the shops on 3rd Ave and I was very happy with their service. But I get it, if you aren't comfortable in MX it's best not to go.

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

If you get your Giha done in the next few months let me know, I might see how it turns out and use your guy, have you go down with me if you would.

KookiDowg

iTrader: (5)

I was going to say the same thing haha and for those that gave me tips here, thanks!

tsmith94FD

iTrader: (1)

Look forward to seeing you on the road. If you are built enough, come up to the Barona drag strip, every other weekend they drag.

Montego

iTrader: (1)

Yeah no problem

Natey

iTrader: (19)

(semi thread jack but still barely on topic GO!)

I talked to my friend about his Dart and he said it was one of those friend of a friend deals. The shop is in TJ but he doesn't know the name of the guy OR the shop. He said he'll ask his friend, but you know how that goes.

If I hear more I'll definitely post up the information.

Robert Chirco

Hi, I am here in San Diego and desperately need some help with my 90 RX7 engine. Any help is really appreciated.

tomsd7

Years ago - had 2 RX7'S - loved them - but now want a little bigger ride - so looking for an RX8. Thanks for any info you might have. Tom

Tom Smith

I've seen them all over Offerup in San Diego,, cheap too. Most have the check engine light on though. Rebuild time.

Veilside Bunny

iTrader: (6)

Somewhat off topic, but does anyone know anywhere in San Diego that does good body work? I’m saving up for a Veilside Fortune kit this year and I’m trying to narrow down the best place to get installed. I’d also like to have them paint and wrap the car after installation. I’m under the impression that I’m best off taking it to a place like West Coast Customs or RDB in LA, but I wouldn’t want to overpay for the work when I may be able to get it done down here for a much better price.

Tom Smith

There is a place in Santee, Canon Ball Customs. Not cheap, but they do a lot of high end classic cars, I'm talking 80k 100k classics. I took mine there for a quote and it was about 8k for a full paint, but they remove everything and paint it, trim, windshield, panels etc. Thorough job.

Veilside Bunny

iTrader: (6)

Thanks Tom. You mean Loose Cannon Customs?