Dont know what i am looking for

[grinder]

Ok - this is a quickie

i have seen a 1989 RX-7 for £1050

it looks ok on the out side and clean on the inside

2 things worry me ( actually 3 )

1 - 124k on the clock
2 - power steering pump ( ?? ) leak
3 - dealer has NO idea of its history

what can i check for

please help

thanks

G.

[Glenn Butcher]

Hello!  You should really have it checked by someone that knows what to look for.  Like Tim at RX Motors.

If I was to purchase, I would have a compression check done, the power steering leak shouldn\'t??? be too difficult to fix. As for the History - engine may have already been replaced if it has done that many miles (could be a good thing).

As for things to check for:

1. Pull out the oil dipstick, make sure the oil is not thick and black will mean that it hasn\'t been changed for some time (should be nice and clear)...
2. Check the coolant  - make sure it is nice and green...
3. Get the guy to start the car from when it is cold - make sure it fires straight away...
4. Check to see if it blows and smoke - a little is normal
5. Take it for a run, ensure it goes ok (no missing etc.) check the brakes, handling...
6. When you have finished taking it for a run, make sure you can start it up again ok - whilst the engine is nice and warm.

If you can\'t get a compression check done, doing the above is probably the next best thing.  

Getting the AA/RAC etc. to do an inspection for you is a good idea also.

Just find out as much as you can.

[grinder]

thanks for the reply !

im also a little concerned at the gear stick

although it is very smooth

it also feels quite loose ... if its in neutral you can waggle it from side to side ?

and if the car isnt running and you press the clutch and go from gear to gear makes a twanging noise ( VERY HARD TO EXPLAIN ! )

so not sure what that is !!

at the end of the day i want it for a weekend toy - so im not planning to do 20,000 miles a year in it

but on the other hand i dont want to blow it up after say 3 months

i dont have masses of free cash so i dont want a money pit as the saying goes !

if you can think of anything else please let me know

im going to try and contact the previous owner if poss and see what she says about it

thanks again

stu / grinder

[Grizzly]

A bit late but,

T2 gear sticks tend to get wear in the bushes at the base of the shiffter, this is an easy fix (just replace the bushes or fit a short shifter) the thing thats would put me off is the noise on Fifth, the Syncro\'s tend to wear or get damaged over time but will cost about £200 (second hand form Tim Rxmotors) + fitting.

If you do as Glen says get it comp tested etc and the comp is all even bounces to around 100 psi then respect it and you wont have a problem. Let it warm up before giving it a foot full and cool down before you turn off.

Oil changes are very important, i like to change mine every 3,000 miles (use good quality oil like GTX not synthetic as the engine uses the oil,  its designed to inject it into the Intake to keep the Apex/Side seals Lubed)

Rx\'s respond well to good care.

Chris

[grinder]

you are definatly late with that - i have already bought a different one !

thanks anyways

Stu

[Grizzly]

LOL.

Chris