Finally, the moment I know you've all been waiting for... My step-by-step directions for replacing your tire valve caps!

First, I picked up a pack of "Monkey Grip Aluminum Sport Caps", in fashionable anodized purple, from my local AutoZone, for about $3. Remember, "Nothing grips like the monkey!"

Then, after opening the package by peeling the cardboard backing from the plastic blister, I set about removing the old tire valve caps, by turning them counter-clockwise when look at them from the center of the rim outward (if your tire is rotated as shown, this could be a little confusing, since up and down are reversed):

Second, place the new tire valve cap on the threads, and gently rotate it clockwise (again, looking out from the center of the rim), until the threads catch and it gently screws down tight. (See figure)

DO NOT USE A HAMMER. Trust me on this one. :)

Repeat the first two steps for the other three tires. Then congratulate yourself on a job well done!

Take a step back and admire your handywork!

Great Job!

I printed this out to bring with me when I attemp the same mod. I really don't feel like running back and forth from the car to my office to see the next step. Strong work.

Your right about monkeys though..... Boy do they grip.

anywho, you now can change your signature. Your ride is no longer stock..:)

Originally posted by Gyro
anywho, you now can change your signature. Your ride is no longer stock..:)

Doh, thanks for reminding me! :)

...Paul

wow , I gotta do this , hot stuff , GOOD job ! lol

LOL!!!!! Great, humorous DIY!!! It stays! :D

Wow, you mean it's like lefty loosy and righty tighty? NO WONDER I couldn't get mine to stay on after I put air in my tires. Thanks! You just made my day! :D

This should be a sticky...

wow this answers all my questions and MORE!

thanks for taking the time to explain something that a lot of us find complicated. Your pictures make it seem soooo easy....well done!

Great job, however I fear the terms "gently rotate clockwise" could still lead some readers astray...

I found, in making a modification to the air pressure in my tires (also qualifies for non-stock signature, right?) that an added step can reduce the opportunity for heartache and crossthreading.

When you place the new valve-cap against the valve-stem, first rotate it counter-clockwise for ~1 turn to properly engage the threads, then continue with the clockwise rotation and tightening.

Anybody have torque specs for these?

ROFLMAO!

Originally posted by Spf006
Great job, however I fear the terms "gently rotate clockwise" could still lead some readers astray...

I found, in making a modification to the air pressure in my tires (also qualifies for non-stock signature, right?) that an added step can reduce the opportunity for heartache and crossthreading.

When you place the new valve-cap against the valve-stem, first rotate it counter-clockwise for ~1 turn to properly engage the threads, then continue with the clockwise rotation and tightening.

Anybody have torque specs for these?


are you saying turn left before going right or don't go right at all? Will Canzoomer have a mod that will fix this?

I think Torque is about 250 ft/lbs no sorry that is for the oil filter put on in Japan

Originally posted by Spf006
Great job, however I fear the terms "gently rotate clockwise" could still lead some readers astray...

I found, in making a modification to the air pressure in my tires (also qualifies for non-stock signature, right?) that an added step can reduce the opportunity for heartache and crossthreading.

When you place the new valve-cap against the valve-stem, first rotate it counter-clockwise for ~1 turn to properly engage the threads, then continue with the clockwise rotation and tightening.

Anybody have torque specs for these?

I have found that 10-15 in.lbs works well.:D

Let me mention that these tire valve caps may look awesome now, but the anodized surface is sub-par and you will notice the color is gone in a few weeks. I know since I have already used these same units.

<--- Beware the monkey!

Can we get a dyno run to see it they increase the total output of the car?

Any Mod is useless with no dyno information.

For a real dyno boost, I recommend Street Glow Tire Valve Caps.

Granted, these are much more complex than the plain aluminum caps. No guarantees on your warranty either.

Light-up valve caps are illegal in California, just FYI. :)

As for the dyno... My butt-dyno says "my wallet feels a little lighter, so I must be going faster." :)

...Paul

My dealership installs idiot light valve caps just to supplement the $82 electronic sensors. They are green if you have air in your tires and red if you don't.

They are nice although I think I might notice the tire being flat before I noticed the valve cap being red.

"Humm flat tire. Maybe, maybe not...Yup confirmed. Valve cap is red! Duh!"

Oh yeah, they install the same as the purple monkeys.

I just saw a show that says you loose 12 hp by using these caps. Very cap inefficient or something like that

Originally posted by Spf006

Anybody have torque specs for these?

As long as you have bannana on your fingers you can't over-tighten them.

Originally posted by flatso
I just saw a show that says you loose 12 hp by using these caps. Very cap inefficient or something like that

You probably have to retune your caps because of the new PCM re-flash.

You can't just throw the same caps on different RX-8s and expect the same gains. You need to install a wide-band tire pressure gauge and do G-Tech runs in all gears to observe the change in tread temperatures.

AHHHHH. Can someone please make this instruction a bit simpler. I still can't get my stem cap off!!! :confused:

How long did this mod take?:D

Originally posted by Parmer8
AHHHHH. Can someone please make this instruction a bit simpler. I still can't get my stem cap off!!! :confused:

How long did this mod take?:D


just watch that you do not break your damper when removing

Originally posted by MazdaManiac
You probably have to retune your caps because of the new PCM re-flash.

You can't just throw the same caps on different RX-8s and expect the same gains. You need to install a wide-band tire pressure gauge and do G-Tech runs in all gears to observe the change in tread temperatures.

I wonder if the "X" flash will address this issue.

And I thought the "how to check oil w/o removing cover" was funny.
found here (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=26497&highlight=oil+window+cover) .
This valve cap mod is by far the funniest yet.

just when I thought I had seen it all

wait...i'm lost...what's a valve cap?

Originally posted by XeRo
wait...i'm lost...what's a valve cap?

They mount to the Kuhneutson Valves

i think

Originally posted by snap-on
They mount to the Kuhneutson Valves

i think

Yes, but it is Kanuten valve and you have to define if it is a left handed or right handed Kanuten valve before you put it on the Bevilfritzer.

BTW, the idiot light valve caps do increase torque. Probably due to some kind of flywheel efffect from them spinning.

Arrrggggghhhhhh!:eek:

Thanks for the DIY post. I just made the changes to my car - took me 4 hours, but I wanted to be careful and not damage anything.

I can't believe you decided to rice up your RX-8 like that.

lol

does this mod void the warranty?

Originally posted by flatso
does this mod void the warranty?

Probably, unless the dealer sold it with something like the idiot caps I have.

"I set about removing the old tire valve caps, by turning them counter-clockwise"

I have a digital clock so I am a little confused. Can you possibly post more pics will arrows showing the direction in which to turn them?

Oh, I am also still anxiously awaiting the dyno results. I anticipate a HP drop due to the fact that they don't look very aerodynamic to me due to all those grooves in them!

Originally posted by flatso
does this mod void the warranty?

Originally posted by RX4+30Years=RX8
Probably, unless the dealer sold it with something like the idiot caps I have.

OK, I already let the cat out of the bag about the centrifugally activated electronic TVC's. I might as well share all the secrets...

The way to get MAXIMUM performance is with a straight pipe extension. We know how the EPA, let alone your neighbors, feel about such radical mods, but when going for performance, we extreme types don't let government regulations get in our way. And again, we know what this means for your warranty. Some times you have to throw caution to the wind. But the good news is that reconverting to stock can be done in under an hour.

Given all those disclaimers, if you're still willing to get the most out of your wheels, here are instructions to do the TVC-Straightpipe mod...

Step 1: Removal of stock tvc (Exactly the same as Step 1 for CryoMax's Alum-TVC mod).

Step 2: With the stock TVC off, it's now time to unpackage the TVC-SP. You can save $ if you buy all four at once.

Straight out of the box, you can see that there is just no comparison between the TVC-Straightpipe vs Stock...

Step 3: Check TVC-Straightpipe for fit.

Here's an extra picture just to show how the light shines straight through.

You can almost *SEE* the performance.

Step 4: Mount TVC-Straightpipe. Here's the beauty of the design - they fit the standard threads and simply screw on with normal clockwise rotation.

It's that easy!

Finally: Repeat on other three wheels.

("lather-rinse-...")

With the mod complete, I'm planning to rename my ride the RX-11.

This baby won't be stopping at 8.

Yeah, but with the StreetPipes you have to watch out for EPA regulations that limit where you can drive with them due to the venturi effect they create that tends to suck just enough air to attenuate the SPs to a frequency that disturbes wildlife.

Then there is also the warning stickers you have to install for pedestrians in the event that one loosens up on a bumpy road and attempts to uninstall itself.

A lot of trouble to go through without the benefit of dyno results if you ask me.

Originally posted by RX4+30Years=RX8
Yeah, but with the StreetPipes you have to watch out for EPA regulations that limit where you can drive with them due to the venturi effect they create that tends to suck just enough air to attenuate the SPs to a frequency that disturbes wildlife.

Then there is also the warning stickers you have to install for pedestrians in the event that one loosens up on a bumpy road and attempts to uninstall itself.

A lot of trouble to go through without the benefit of dyno results if you ask me.


I saw a cop the other day with a ruler out measuring a car with these on them. Be careful out there it's a jungle.

Finally - a mod even I can afford!

You guyz r insane!! :D :D

RX4+30Years=RX8 Yeah, but with the StreetPipes you have to watch out for EPA regulations that limit where you can drive with them due to the venturi effect they create that tends to suck just enough air to attenuate the SPs to a frequency that disturbes wildlife.


I have heard that squirrels and possum could instantaneously explode if the frequency is incorrect.

Perhaps someone really should post in the Canzoomer section to see if he can create a mod that will protect these precious creatures. Of course, if you have the M flash then this is a non-issue.

Originally posted by SMigneco
Of course, if you have the M flash then this is a non-issue.

I can here it now;

[RX-8 Newbie owner] I need to get the "M" flash thingy.

[Service writer] What is the problem that you are experiencing?

[RX-8 Newbie] No problem, I just want to installl StreetPipes on my wheels.

[Service writer] Street pipes on your wheels, why would you, no how do you.. on your wheels?!

[Newbie] Yes, they screw on right over the input valve on the pressure sensors.

[Service writer] Now I see, but what does that have to do with the "M" flash?

[Newbie] Well it's a really long story to explain it, but I don't want to kill any small animals I might drive by.

[Service writer] Do what?! Well ok, just let me fill this out. I had to have a reason to do the flash upgrade for Mazda to cover it under warranty.

[Service ticket problem description] Update PCM to "M" level to correct loose nut behind wheel.

Originally posted by CCJ
Finally - a mod even I can afford!


LOL

You guys should never attempt this mod without first chocking your wheels front and back and setting the emergency brake. Never know when that twisting force on the valve stems is going to send your car plummeting down the driveway!

Could you please post your gas mileage before/after this mod? I would be interested what effect the change in aerodynamics makes on the mileage.

700 miles on a quarter tank so far...but at the expense of 3 possum, 7 squirrels, and a skunk.

Man, I don't have the balls to try this mod. I'll stick to stripping the orange peel off. :)

Yes, the orange peel mod seems to be MUCH easier and less time consuming.

:D

These would look good on any RX!

http://rotary1b1.com/rotorcaps.jpg

Buy them on my site:
www.rotary13b1.com

I can personally attest to the improvements as a result of installing the chromed rotary-shaped valve caps from rotary13b1.com. I think my gas mileage improved by a little over 0.00732 mpg after the install, averaged over two tanksfull. Once the engine computer adjusted to the change in setup, my "seat of the pants" dyno registered greater than 0.001 improvement in both horsepower and torque in first gear. I have not had my dyno calibrated in other gears so I will not quote actual figures, but the improvement is at least as impressive in all gears (except reverse). For some strange reason, I can detect no change at all in reverse.

I strongly recommend this performance modification to all RX-8 owners. It is inexpensive (less than the Mazda accessory caps) and with the DIY procedure above, even a novice can be confident of completing the swap, avoiding shop labor fees.

Man, i just finished this mod...my car has so much more power!!! like 2000% more!!!!

I suppose these valves are street legal? Do I have to worry about cops with these things?

Are there any neon valves out?

You want legal?

Or do you want real bolt/spin on performance?

You gotta make up your mind.

Kinda like that Harley/Dinette set commercial

I'm a newcomer, so I'm learning alot from these posts. I'm picking up my new 8 in 3 wks. From what I've been reading, an application of Zaino would make these valves work even better!

Due to lack of funds I'm thinking of modding just the left rear passenger side valve cap for now. Will that affect the 25-25-25-25 weight distribution significantly? I'm wary about driving on wet roads.

they are expensive
you can get the replica for less

i tried this last night for about 2 hours before i gave up in utter frustration! anyone in the portland oregon area already done this that can give me a hand?

i tried this last night for about 2 hours before i gave up in utter frustration! anyone in the portland oregon area already done this that can give me a hand?

CLAP, CLAP, CLAP!!!

Nothing much to say, but...LOL

I am going to have to wait on this one. My dealer put on these special caps that show green when you have enough air in the tire. I took them off and put normal caps on because I took them off once and I can't get them back on because as soon as I took them off they showed red. I put more air in the tires, but they still showed red so I used an old tire guage with normal caps.

Fer thos wunderin, I watch'd the cap carfulley as I was puttion air in da tire and it stayd red da hol time.

I dun't want ta mess with the Rotery style caps til I get this perfectd.

I dun't ned help. I are a do it myselfer, ya know. I juz ned ta praktiss.

BTW, they actually charge $9 a piece for those valve caps that show green. Now why they put them on a car that has built in sensors inside the tires, beats me. Anyone want them? Mak ya a deel, dun't cha kno.

I'm left handed. Do they make a left handed model?

One thing that almost no one took into consideration... what about the balance of the wheel/tire? I mean, ya know, couldn't this mod throw the whole stability of the car completely out of whack, thereby voiding the warranty? :)

ijust busted out laughing at work. thanks guys, my boss looked at me like i was an exploded possum.

hey by the way my name is Mr. Valve & Capish and I have been working on my own caps that install the same but make 327.76whp! However I am saving all data and photos until the Warren Commision comes out so that govornment secrets are not given to the general public.

Just a note of caution on how dangerous it can be if you don't tighten them in the proper order. It should be front left, then back right, then back left, then front right. This distributes the pressure evenly so your wheels won't fall off.

Just a note of caution on how dangerous it can be if you don't tighten them in the proper order. It should be front left, then back right, then back left, then front right. This distributes the pressure evenly so your wheels won't fall off.

ROFL - that's a good one.

Well, here's a little DIY info on the tire caps that people might not actually be aware of....

Believe it or not, aftermarket caps with brass threads can seize to the stem, making it difficult or even impossible to get air into the tires.

The RX-8 valve stems are solid metal and the threads are some type of aluminum alloy; not the usual brass. This causes a galvanic reaction between the dissimilar metals.

The solution is to not use caps with brass threads. Or, make sure to use anti-seize compound. I've got some locking caps (yes there are such things), with brass threads that have done fine with anti-seize. But I did have an earlier set of caps nearly freeze solid after only a few weeks!

I'd swear I saw a Mazda bulletin about this somewhere, but can't find it right now...

I'd swear I saw a Mazda bulletin about this somewhere, but can't find it right now...
Yup, there was one but it is not on the finishlineperformance.com site any longer. (Actually, there are two different pages for the RX-8 bulletins--I've been to both--but I can't remember the URL for the "unlisted" one.) In any case, I have, over time, printed out all the bulletins and the one on the valve stems is:

Bulletin No. 02-004/06, "TPMS Valve Stem Breaks When Removing Aftermarket Valve Stem Caps - Service Tip", date issued 06/09/2006, 2 pages.

Basically, it says pretty much what you said.