1993 Mazda RX-7 FD3S · 13B-REW · An evolving build by Henry Pitzer
Build status · Parts & systems · Watch the series · What’s next
An RX-7 built with intention.
My vision for this FD is a carefully refined, OEM+ sports car: the original rotary character, thoughtful engineering, and the level of finish that makes every detail feel intentional. Inspired by the craftsmanship behind a Singer Porsche, the goal is to improve the complete driving experience while keeping the personality that makes an RX-7 special. Air conditioning, road use, mountain drives and track days all belong in that picture.
Where the build stands
Updated September 23, 2026: The rebuilt 13B-REW and transmission are installed in the restored engine bay. The project is now moving through final turbo installation, plumbing, wiring and supporting systems on the road to first start.
- Completed: rotary assembly, engine-bay restoration and reassembly, JP3 fuel-system installation, FFE crank-trigger installation, and engine/transmission installation.
- Next: finish the Turblown EFR 8374 turbo installation and its dedicated video.
- Following: JP3 A/C conversion, Link ECU installation and LMS EFI wiring, FFE coil-on-plug system, and JP3 oil-cooling system.
- Milestones ahead: first start, system checks and shakedown, first drive, then dyno tuning and validation.
The build specification
- Engine: rebuilt 13B-REW; Turblown engine studs, lower intake manifold, oil pan and baffled oil filler neck.
- Turbo system: Turblown BorgWarner EFR 8374 IWG package; final installation in progress.
- Fuel: JP3 hardline fuel kit, Radium upper rail and four Injector Dynamics ID1300X injectors.
- Engine management: Link G4X Fury wire-in ECU with Link sensors; installation and wiring ahead.
- Harness: LMS EFI harness and bulkhead connector arrangement.
- Ignition and timing: installed FFE crank trigger; FFE coil-on-plug/IGN-1A setup upcoming.
- Drivetrain: transmission work by Rotorsports, ACT clutch and FFE engine mounts.
- Supporting systems: JP3 RX-8 A/C conversion and oil cooler installation upcoming; Pettit intercooler.
- Wheels and details: TE37 wheels, HKS carpets and a renewed engine bay. The fuller chassis, exterior and interior specification will grow alongside the build.
Watch the rebuild: published chapters
The original plan expanded as individual components earned their own technical coverage. These chapters document the work from the restored engine bay through rotary assembly and supporting systems. Start with the linked installation films below. Additional chapter links will be added as the archive is organized.
- Prologue — RX-7 Engine Bay Restoration + Build Introduction. The starting point and direction for the complete rebuild.
- 1A — Complete 13B-REW Keg Assembly. Seals, clearances and assembly of the rotary.
- 1B — Turblown Engine Stud Install. A dedicated look at the stud system and installation.
- 1C — Turblown Oil Pan + FFE Engine Mounts. Supporting components brought together around the rebuilt engine.
- 2 — Engine Bay Transformation. Refinished parts, hardlines, brake components, harness cleanup and bulkhead preparation.
- 3 — JP3 Fuel System Install. Hardlines, injectors, rails and the complete fuel layout.
- 4A — FFE Crank Trigger Install. Installation of the rebuilt engine’s crank-trigger system.
Upcoming build journal
- Engine installation: the drivetrain is installed; the engine-install episode is published. Watch The 13B is BACK! → Plumbing, wiring and supporting systems remain part of the road to first start.
- Turbo, ignition and oil cooling: dedicated Turblown, FFE and JP3 installation chapters.
- Accessories and A/C: front-engine pulley work, RX-8 A/C conversion and remaining plumbing.
- Wiring and first start: LMS EFI harness, Link ECU, system verification and the first startup.
- Roadworthy: heat cycles, inspections, initial driving and final tuning.
- Later possibilities: display integration and a drive-by-wire conversion. Timing and final components remain flexible.
Partners in the build
This project is supported by Turblown / TurboSource, JP3 Motorsports, Full Function Engineering, Link ECU, Toyo Tires and LMS EFI. Their parts and support are documented through installation videos, detailed photography and continued use as the car evolves.
As each installation story is added, this section will connect the partner, the component and the finished work in one place.
Built to be driven. Finished with intention.
First start is a milestone, not the end of the project. The next chapters are about tuning, real-world use and learning from the completed package. Longer-term plans include a full exterior restoration and a carefully considered interior, with a goal of presenting the car at Toyo Tires Treadpass at SEMA in 2028. That appearance is an ambition, not a confirmed placement.
Photography & installation archive
Exterior portraits and workshop details from the evolving RX-7 build. New installation galleries will be added with each finished chapter.
Follow the next chapter
For new build films, visit HenryJZX on YouTube. For a project built around installation education, product photography or long-term use, explore Partner With Henry. Return to the Garage to explore the other cars.