I called a local mazda dealer's service department, seeking a second opinion
 on my used rotors. I was told by the service writer that dealer service depts
 do not take down engines, they don't even know what things inside look like,
 they just get a new engine form Mazda. Hmmmm.  Does anyone out there who has
 the experience of rebuilding a rotary make inspection measurements as called
 for in the shop manual? During cleaning I found some "minor" dings and dents,
 and some burrs along the edges (not seals) that I carefully stoned out in a 2
 step process, med-fine, then very fine.  the rotor housing clearence passes
 minimum of .1mm. but there are still some cosmetic issues where some knuckle
 head used a brass hammer, and a couple other dings. Would anyone here care to
 see pictures and offer comment?  Will be posting turbo manifold this evening,
 along with other picuters if there is an interest.

 C. Smith

 Sure send the pictures.
 Paul Lamar

 Here are some images. I didn't want to compress them too much, and
 loose all
 the detail.
 If there is a particular size you prefer to the group, please let me
 know.
 C. Smith

 Those are some strange marks but I don't see anything that is a show
 stopper.
 As long as the holes for the end seals are not too oversize you should be
 OK. The pict size is fine. Perhaps a few too many but OK for this once.

 Paul Lamar

Definitely seen better rotors.  I would question anything from the guy with
the hammer.

These appear to be 86-88 (8.5 CR) turbo rotors based on the rough cast
recess.  (pic#1) To confirm, you will need to check the weight or the depth
of the recess.
I have attached an old recess check for NA rotors, I don't have any turbo
stuff handy. (pic#2)

The rotors "might" be usable but you will want to spec them VERY carefully.
Check for Lynn Hannover's apex seal slot V wear.  He stands an apex seal
vertically out of the apex seals slot.  It should have less than 3/16"?
play.
Several of the corners appear to be slightly bent like in your pic#3 - you
will want to make
really sure that the corner seal (and other seals) moves freely.   The
corners are very flexible
and easily damaged.
You probably want to remove any of the ding that is proud or sticks out from
the surface. (pic#1) Good used S5 rotors seem to go for about $75-100
apiece.
Cheers
Cary


Thanks for all the input. I sent the rotors back today, with a message
encouraging the fellow to use some care. I paid $175 for the pair, on eBay.
I'm not sure what the resolution will be. He used the phrases "excellent
condition" and "ready to use" in the listing. I'm not sure if he will just
refund me or send another set. I did tell him that I would use the
inspection criteria in the factory manual for acceptance. They never would
have passed the rotor housing clearance had I not worked on them with the
stones. You should have seen them as shipped. When I first questioned their
condition, he started right in on the shipper damaging them, but there is no
way that damage could come from shipping (box didn't support it either).
Then he said he was going to make an insurance claim anyway. Business ethics
seems to be an oxymoron, in this brave new world.
C. Smith