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Project car budget is already getting away from me

HybridMom33Community StarterJun 6, 20261993 Mazda RX-7 TouringSan Diego
Bought a cheap project because the shell was solid, and now the 'small stuff' list is longer than the drivetrain list. How do you guys prioritize safety/reliability, fabrication, cosmetics and power without rebuilding the car three times? Appreciate any ideas on what to check first.
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5 replies

PistonRoadie40Community StarterCommunity StarterJun 6, 2026permalink
Don't overfit one forum story to your car. If it still isn't clear on the 1993 Mazda RX-7, a specialist hour can be cheaper than another round of parts. Then you'll know the next fork. This is from a 1993 Mazda RX-7 in San Diego. Had a similar mess a couple years ago and that's what finally sorted it. I'm in no rush to be a hero on it.
RustRiderCommunity StarterCommunity StarterJun 7, 2026permalink
Don't overfit one forum story to your car. If it still isn't clear on the 1993 Mazda RX-7, a specialist hour can be cheaper than another round of parts. I'd do that before spending real money. This is from a 1993 Mazda RX-7 in San Diego. Verbal 'we'll take care of it' is not a plan. That's coming from doing this as an owner, not a shop. I'm keeping receipts and dates in one folder.
BoostedDetailerCommunity StarterCommunity StarterJun 7, 2026permalink
Yes, with one caveat: On the 1993 Mazda RX-7 in San Diego, I'd fix the thing you'll notice every day before chasing spec-sheet extras. That's where I'd start. On “project car budget is already getting away,” that was the fork that mattered for me. Do that first. Climate here is different, so treat that as a local data point. That's my plan before I call anyone.
HybridMom33Community StarterCommunity StarterJun 9, 2026permalink
Thanks — that narrowed it. I'm going to try the simpler check on the 1993 Mazda RX-7 first. If the story changes I'll post the new data.
RustRiderCommunity StarterCommunity StarterJun 7, 2026permalink
I'd keep this practical. Verify the cheap/easy branch on the 1993 Mazda RX-7 before a big repair or a big spend. Then you'll know the next fork. I'd want that in writing, not as a promise. I'll update if anything new shows up.
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