FD Reliable?

[Cow]

Ok, I understand that this topic has been discussed to death already.

But SERIOUSLY and HONESTLY, will a STOCK FD be a good and reliable DAILY car?

With service done when it is supposed to and not too much hard driving?
Is it in ANY way inconvenient at all? Uncomfortable in traffic? Too many blindspots?

If you think that the FD won't make a good daily driver, WHY?

and if you think that the FD is as reliable as any other car for everyday use, WHY?

Thanks.

 

[phat7]

Have had mine for 5 years and as reliable as can be. So long as you take care of it and the care will do the same. This whole bullshit surrounding the reliabilty of fd's came about because there really was no competant workshop/mechanics to service or repair the rotary engine. Now with more people realising the rotary's potential (its now being noted that whilst using hybrid fuel source, the rotary has on of the best performance and emissions) we have a host of workshop specialising in its rebuild.

Lets just put it this way---> if you like it you can go ahead and buy it as there is plenty of support out there including a new rotary engine club which is in planning.

 

[endless551]

Originally posted by phat7@Feb 22 2005, 10:14
Have had mine for 5 years and as reliable as can be. So long as you take care of it and the care will do the same. This whole bullshit surrounding the reliabilty of fd's came about because there really was no competant workshop/mechanics to service or repair the rotary engine. Now with more people realising the rotary's potential (its now being noted that whilst using hybrid fuel source, the rotary has on of the best performance and emissions) we have a host of workshop specialising in its rebuild.

Lets just put it this way---> if you like it you can go ahead and buy it as there is plenty of support out there including a new rotary engine club which is in planning.

Totally agree! don't do a stupid wind up my boost and guesstimate my fueling then u will be fine.. Preventive maintenance is a very important aspect too.. can't expect all hoses to last under intense heat of the RE after all these yrs. Spend some money (minimal) for the basics and should b fine. I do have to say these cars need more attention, interest, knowledge than others. U need to b a fan.

 

[13btt]

I have had my FD for 3 years now and after rebuilding the engine with a mate I have had no major problems to date. But as the others have said it does require a little more care & understanding versus a piston car.

I fully agree with phat7 that there has been too many mechanics screwing it up plus some irresponsible owners thinking that big boost = fast car without thinking about extra fueling etc etc. No question about it... RE is less forgiving to lean mixtures and hence detonation = eating apex seal(s) = full rebuild required.

Also sadly due to poor maintenance / lack of rotary understanding and saving $$$ many bad examples of FD RXs exist out there so be careful. I love how many FDs look really good externally but mechanically they suck big time...people would rather spend money on external image rather than spending $$$ to make the mechanicals in top condition. Also bear in mind that the FC/FD RX-7 is getting rather old with often a very poor maintenance history even though they look good on the outside for the reasons stated above.

I drive my car just about every day and rarely think twice about driving it anywhere I feel. I have been to Penang, Telok Intan, Ipoh, Rawang / Bukit Beruntung, Johor etc etc numerous times and Singapore about 5 times with no breakdown to date.

Reliable rotary can be achieved by focusing on the following key areas (this is not an exhaustive list):

1. Start with a good (rebuild) engine with high compression
2. Good/clean cooling system (clean distilled water + 20% coolant + 1 bottle water wetter in an upgraded 3-core or similar radiator
3. Radiator electric fans both working / 0.9bar max radiator cap
4. Clean / good fuel filter (check regularly for clogging)
5. Vacuum hoses to turbo system changed to silicone or new rubber
6. Get water temp meter or fan controller (ABSOLUTE MUST HAVE)
7. DO NOT run boost higher than 0.9bar on stock fuel system / ECU and/or without upgrading intercooler.

If you follow the above mods / maintenance diligently you will ensure no overheating and sufficient fueling to safeguard against lean mixtures = blown apex seal. You will have a reliable RX you can drive every day with FUN and confidence!

 

[ReNo]

r o t a r y + p o w e r = r a w k s ! ! !

hehehehehe!