Itchin4N8

I've read that not maintaining the oil level properly on these RX8's can lead to premature apex seal failure. I wonder why Mazda didn't design a sohn tank to begin during a new car year release with a low level sensor and offer kits for previous years? For a car that consumes oil that is critical to it's longevity, why not just have like a four litre tank that supplies that apex seal saving oil and have a dash warning light come on when it's refill time? Maybe also have a backup valve that draws oil from the engine oil if the driver doesn't refill the sohn tank.

Why for that many years from 2004 to 2011 did they not come up with an factory OEM sohn design? Wouldn't that have helped reduce the number of engine failures?

dannobre

iTrader: (3)

Basically most people can barely keep their oil level topped up in the engine. Having 2 oil levels would add another light to ignore and a even worse chance for the engine as a Sohn type system running out of oil means no oil.

Those of us that look after our cars sometimes forget the lowest common denominator that OEM manufacturers face with design parameters.

Loki

iTrader: (1)

Not to say it was the right decision, but I agree with dannobre. Keep in mind the direction for RX8 was to make the rotary-powered everyday car, unlike the RX-7s. 4 seats, etc. As much as it would have been better, complicating life with oil injection options goes against that.

Plus, any car is in trouble if someone doesn't keep the oil level correct. Most failures are not caused by low oil.

ZiG

I also think emissions comes into play. If they actually design a sohn tank, that opens a new can of worms with regards to pollution, especially if they increased the oiling amount beyond the pitifully low volume currently injected.

CelestialGryphon

iTrader: (1)

Oh god. My car already hates passing emissions here in CO. I can't imagine the ******* hoops I'd have to jump through in Cali.