Jeff, can you update your program with the correct locations for
 the starter bolt holes using my original plate? That would help everyone.
 C. Smith

 You don't want to do that Craig. It is too easy to match drill with
 the starter you have. There are too many minor variations in Mazda rotary
 starters. They will all work but the exact geometry varies in subtle
 ways.
 They all look pretty much the same. I own three different types.
 Sometimes I have to measure them to tell the difference.

 Paul Lamar


Paul

the idea for the future would be a true plug and play installation.  Why
could it not be possible to identify a starter of whatever year and
model,  tell all to get this starter and forget hand drilling holes
after you received the unit. doesn't your local parts shop carry such a
starter?

jeff

Well like engines there are many variations and people usually get a starter
when they get an engine. No telling what starter they may have. If you buy a
new starter from a Mazda dealer they are big bucks indeed.

Your motor plate will fit 13B's and 12A's dating back to 1970.

I would not even know which starter is the most popular and or the
cheapest. Different starters were used on manual and auto transmissions.
I am sure the 12A starter for the 1st gen RX7 is widely
made but how much longer will they be available? The car is already 20 years
old.

It is much cheaper to buy a half inch or 12 mm center punch and drill
two holes.


Paul Lamar


A Toyota Corolla starter maybe?  Or to stay Mazda (but with high
production numbers), how about a "3," 323 or MX3?

Matt

Many of those would work when you drill your own mounting holes.

Paul Lamar