DavidPHumes

iTrader: (1)

Hey all,

This setup is going to go into my 1990 Mazda RX-7. It has a 400WHP LS1 in it now, but I want boost... thus...

I just purchased a turbo setup from a fellow RX-7 driver (comes with headers, downpipe, TC76, Turbosmart 48mm wastegate, etc.).
I was going to stick with the LS1 but I already have a low mile LM7 sitting around and I'd rather blow that up then my LS1.
Plus, the sale of the LS1 will pay for a lot of the new setup.
I really like the appeal of a "junkyard" build. Since this is a weekend car, I really don't care if I blow it up or not. Eventually I want a built 6.0, but not this go around.
The goal is to spend the least amount possible on the motor while keeping it semi reliable at ~10LBs of boost.
My tuner says I should get a smaller turbo - like a 70mm - so that's something I might change. We'll see - he runs that show.

Here's my tentative build list for you all to pick apart:

Motor:
5.3L LM7
ARP rod bolts
ARP head bolts
Z06 camshaft
Z06 pushrods
GM yellow springs
LS7 lifters
LS6 intake manifold
OE replacement water pump, oil pump, head gaskets, intake manifold gaskets, etc.
LS2 timing chain
F-body oil pan and all front accessories

Fuel:
60# injectors
255lph Walbro (already have)
91 octane

Turbo setup:
Turbonetics TC76 (thinking I might sell it and go a little smaller like a 70mm)
Turbosmart 48mm external wastegate
Turbosmart BOV (undecided on model)
Big FMIC (undecided on size/model/etc.)

Drivetrain:
T56 with Spec Stage 3 clutch and OEM flywheel
Ronin Speedworks 8.8" mount kit (with rebuilt Explorer LSD with 3.55 gears)

I'd like input specifically on my FMIC setup and my turbo size - though feel free to nitpick the whole deal. This setup *seems* to be tried and true

Here's the car it will be in:



And here's what the turbo setup looks like in the current car (a friend's from No Rotors):

Professor_speed

iTrader: (8)

I would get better valve springs. (double springs), I would probably double up the walbro too. and I would keep the 76mm it will be just fine on 5.3l

chucklaw

iTrader: (2)

I'm doing the same thing to my 88 RX7 vert! Pulling out the LS1 and dropping in the LM7. I'm going with the Patriot Gold springs, though. I also agree to the double walbro and to keep the 76.

chucklaw

iTrader: (2)

From what I've read, you need to put the second Walbro on a hobbs switch so the fuel doesn't get heated up too much.

HydroStream6

iTrader: (16)

My buddy and I are doing the same exact build right now in an 87 RX7. Solid axle 8.8, LM7, a PT turbo, etc. Almost done.

6point7s14

iTrader: (3)

Very nice.. Good luck

JAX04

iTrader: (17)

good stuff man! I like it! In for pics and jazz

skinnies

iTrader: (33)

Go with arp head studs, ls9 gaskets, good pushrods, patriot gold springs, no need for rod bolts, keep the tc76. IF the tune is good, it should have no issues living for a LONG time at 10lbs, tune is key tho, get a sh*t tune and it'll die quickly.

LS AzZkIkr

My first car was a 91 GXL-SE and loved it. I have been wondering how hard it would be to do a swap in one of these cars and what all in involved?

chucklaw

iTrader: (2)

Not too difficult at all. Go to www.norotors.com

Lots of info there...