I need a 13b or help with rebuild?

[superjeff]

So I just bought a 1990 convertible with bad coolant seals. I have never rebuilt one of these, and can't decide if I want to or just find a used engine to throw in. Does anyone have a engine on the cheap, or anyone interested in showing me how to do a rebuild? I still have to decide which way to go.

Thanks,
Jeff

[chickenwafer]

My recommendation if you've never rebuilt a rotary before or seen it done would be to send it out to a professional builder. That way (unless your Eric [too soon?] ) you're basically guaranteed a good working motor with a warranty. I would recommend Banzai Racing in Indiana or BDC in Texas. They are probably the closest shops that do real good work. BDC tends to do more high end builds while Banzai can handle budget builds.

Purchasing a used engine is really a huge gamble. Unless I've personally, with my own two eyes, seen the engine run and make power, I have to assume its bad. This is a for sure with all those Jdm swap rotaries on eBay, most are junk, have been sitting in shipping yard for months out in the elements, and are probably blown.

Of course, you can absolutely rebuild the engine yourself. There is no "magic" that goes into building a 13b, but some tricks help. If you go that route, I would strongly recommend a rebuild DVD that will also show you how to spec all your own parts. I know I would be glad to help, and I'm sure others would as well. If you decided to rebuild yourself, I start with tearing the motor down to inspect each part and figure out what needs replacing, then start ordering parts.

I rebuilt my own engine in part to save money, But also because I enjoy that sort of thing. If you don't think you'd enjoy it, I'd say leave it to someone else. Also, I didn't save that much money. I think all told I spent around $1500 bucks rebuilding it myself (including ALS apex seals, Atkins solid corner seals, Pineapple street porting templates and carbide bits, misc tools, etc) whereas Banzai charges $1500 for a basic rebuild, but shipping can be expensive. Just some food for thought.

[speedjunkie]

That way (unless your Eric [too soon?] ) you're basically guaranteed a good working motor with a warranty.

Nah, not too soon. It's been a year now, but I am still bitter lol.

OP, if you want a basic build on the cheap, you can get ahold of Matt Holcomb there in Denver. He did a V8 swap on his FC but he still builds rotaries. Sometimes they even run. LOL jk. I like giving him shit. Anyway, you could even help him build it probably, then he could teach you about it and you'd feel more comfortable doing it yourself next time. If you want to go this route let me know and I'll give you his number.