Hi, I'm new here, so be gentle. I have an original 1980 RX-7 with the original stock 12A engine. It developed a coolant leak so I decided to replace the various seals and re-assemble the engine. My question: What is the purpose of the assist piece? From looking at the shop manual it looks like it could be difficult installing the spring without disturbing the assist piece. Thanks for your help.



Roger

 

i think its to keep the thing together as you stack the engine, ive actually never seen one, and ive been building engines for 10+ years.



we think that all it does is keep the corner of the apex seal from shooting across the shop

 

Thanks for the info.