Ok, I've been pondering over a 79 RX with some running issues. I was checking out a few of these overhaul, engine rebuild packages and my head started spinning at the cost.

So the question, how on earth does one rebuild an engine economically, or is this the biggest oxymoron? Is it really just a matter of buying several used engines and taking the best parts from each?

 

Well, the most economic way, is to re-use as many parts as possible, including apex seals, springs etc. This means measuring everything to ensure it is withing spec. This, of course, is very time consuming.

The next most economical step is to just replace the seals. This is a basic rebuild.

 

Thanks

I was going to tear down the engine anyways, since I'm bringing it down to a bare shell for a either a respray or colour change depending on budget and my mood. I would have to change all the o-rings, seals, and gaskets just based on their age and the fact that the car has been in storage for over 5 years and probably haven't been replaced considering the car's low mileage. It starts and runs, but very rough... might need new apex seals on the rear rotor.

 

If it starts pretty easily, I doubt you need a rebuild. Usually if the motor has low compression it'll be a bitch to start. Do a compression test to make sure, then start looking for problems with the carb and ignition system.

 

Problem is that it IS a biatch to start... the current owner was pumping that gas pedal to no end to get it going.

 

Could just be out of tune with old gas. If you do get it start testing and adjusting the cheap and easy stuff first. Ignition, carb tuning, filters, fluids, belts etc are either easy to adjust yourself or need to be replaced anyway and will help the car run better. At the very least they'll give you some experience tuning the engine so IF you need a rebuild it'll go a bit smoother.

 

Unless you really know what you are doing you should stay clear. Hire someone who has rebuilt rotaries many times or go for the Racing Beat drop in. Do it yourself s*** vibrates like hell & will only get you a few miles down the road.

http://members.cardomain.com/snapshot1

 

I think you can rebuild it. Just buy the rebuild video and look over the manual. I never rebuild a rotary when i bought my 7's and now I've rebuilt over a dozen..

 

Thanks gonzz... that's the vote of confidence I needed.