George Lendich wrote:

Paul,
Interesting conversation I recently had with the local engine builder on RX8 Parts and their interchangeability with the RX7.

He recently built a RX7 racing engine with RX8 rotors - I thought the RX8 rotors were quite a bit wider ?
I also thought the bearing sizes were different - but apparently not !
Anyhow all went well until he got to 10,000 RPM when the rotors were binding on the endhousings, so they shaved (just a little) off the sides of the rotors.

He also noted that the rotor side seals were much shorter( in length) that RX7 side seals. He was concerned about too muck leakage but they worked OK he can
only put down the extra gap in the side seal ( to the apex side seals) as needed because the side seals were exposed to greater heat of the side exhaust and
therefore expanded more!  Apparently some people put in bigger apex side seals to make up the difference in gap.

Also the apex seals were shorter in height so they cut the slot deeper and put in Hurley apex seals.

Speaking of Hurley apparently they have a 2 piece side seals ( very thin) which are very flexible and tough.
I suggested using a bi-metal hacksaw blade and grind it down to size as they are very flexible and tough - the new hacksaw blades out now don't break at all.

Cheap side seal idea if anyone wishes to try it.
George (down under)

 
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