I was looking through the local mazda lot today at the RX-8 when I noticed one had what looked to be a tie down rod sticking ouit the front of the car. If you look at the corners of the grill you can see were the rod screw in. There is also one in the back of the car to the right of the portion of the car. Thought it was wierd that they would miss taking something light that off the car.

Had it just come off the transport, perhaps? THat is pretty strange though. Mine were inside the back console lying loose. Couldn't figure out what the hell all the clanking was driving it home.. like the proverbial cement mixer. Soon found out. :)

that is pretty weird. when i walked my mazda lot for the first time browsing at the RX-8, i found a red one sitting there with the key in the lock!! unbelievable.

There are spots for the tie-down eyes under the hinged cover in the trunk. That way they won't rattle. If you ever wind up on a flatbed, they're handy.

There are spots for the tie-down eyes under the hinged cover in the trunk. That way they won't rattle. If you ever wind up on a flatbed, they're handy.

Been there! [Sad story told earlier elsewhere]. Apparently Jaguar -the Ford connection- uses the same system.

I been on the flatbed too, over New Years. My long saga is posted here somewhere (search for "ring gear" or "wing gear." There are little flaps in the front grillwork that pop out, and in the back, too. If you pop 'em open, you'll find a threaded hole, and the tie-downs in your trunk toolkit screw right in. Cleverly hidden, and nice to know for those unpleasant situations...

Edit: Here's the post... (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=18424)

Thanks for the link 8-wannabe. Very comprehensive and informative write-up. :) My story is one of flooding due to 'operator error' I suppose the most accurate term would be. Won't bother with the link as I still feel stupid for having caused the problem.. inadequate warm-up. :o

The dealer knowledge issue re: oil multi-viscosity still seems to be an ongoing saga for some. Makes one wonder about the thoroughness of Mazda North America's in-service training programs; happily, my dealership's 2 RX-8 specialists are first rate.