Project FD RX7 Restomod: Part 9 – Air Pump Removal and FFE Idler Pulley

We started by removing the strut tower brace, intercooler, and upper intake manifold.  Next to the charge pipe on the left side of the picture, you can see the black rubber hose that takes air from the intake and feeds the air pump hidden below.

With the upper intake manifold removed, we can see what is commonly referred to the “rat-nest” of vacuum lines and solenoids that control the complex twin turbo system.

FD RX-7s are notorious for complications stemming from vacuum leaks from the countless lines hidden under the upper intake manifold.

This new crate engine from Mazda was installed by the previous owner and all of the rubber lines were replaced with silicon.

With the turbo inlet tube still connected, we can see how the black rubber tube feeds fresh air directly to the Air Pump (which is disconnected in this photo).