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You’ve decided you’re going to turbo charge a 13B 6PI even after reading all that? So I guess that means I actually have to write something regarding doing some actual work. Before we even pick up and start ordering any parts for this project start by making a list. Make a list of all the things you’ll need to accomplish this project. The big groups to think about are:

1) Induction
2) Cooling
3) Oil
4) Exhaust
5) Fuel
6) Electronics

This list will be broken out into individual sections and further discussion given to each individual component and what should be desired from each. With this simple 6 item list see what you can pick up for not too expensively, what will need to be custom fit, custom manufactured, or even pieced together. Seeing what you have before and what you still need for the build will help you reduce some of your associated costs. To make things develop a spreadsheet that can be used to organize the individual parts, their associated costs (including shipping), and location to order from.

Also before endeavoring to accomplish this project please remember that this is a very time consuming build. Do not plan on having the car down for just a weekend. This will require you to make some arrangements to ensure you have adequate space to tear down and build the car. Set aside additional time if you plan on rebuilding and porting the engine as well as additional time if any work is needed on the engine bay such as paint.

Once that is accomplished pressure test your engine prior to removing anything from the car. Ensure you have adequate compression and the seal conditions appear to be good. Validate your numbers using a rotary specific compression tester which can be done at any Mazda Dealership. Do not buy the compression tester, but have them test your compression and give you a copy of the numbers. Any discrepancy in the compression of the engine should be dealt with prior to beginning the project. If you find you have low compression or a stuck seal. Attempt to remedy the problem without breaking apart the engine and check the compression once more. If all seals appear to be in functioning condition and you are able to validate all concerns with the engines condition by direct visual confirmation (mirror or flexible bore scope in the spark plugs and exhaust and intake ports) that the engine is indeed in working condition, proceed with the build. Be aware that if there is any damage to the housings or seals turboing the engine will only exacerbate the problem.

Ensure that your working location is free of clutter and debris that will cause considerable headache during tear down and build. Organizing and marking parts during tear down will greatly increase your speed on assembly and thereby decrease your time of the build. It costs a little upfront but has very nice returns.