Hi, I have a 2004 rx8 6 port manual. I take it that a bad or clogged converter can REALLY hurt these engines. How can I test my cat to make sure it's good? How common are they to go out? And if mine fails the test, would it be viable to get a used one?

 

Best test is to take it down and inspect it visually for breakage or clogging. You can replace it with a used one, assuming it's in good shape. There are also aftermarket midpipes available, but don't buy weld-in generic cats. They don't last on a rotary.

 

what about preventative failure of cats?
Temps? Revs?

 

Bad coils, wires and plugs can kill your cat and your engine. Following the proper schedule for replacement of these key ignition components is one way to keep your cat happy and healthy. Also be sure you have the upgraded and stronger starter, which was introduced by Mazda after the 2004s came out.


Be sure to read this ,all the way through, if you haven't already. All important info.
https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...t-here-202454/


And follow the Rx8Club's maintenance schedule:
RX8 Club’s recommended maintenance schedule, more comprehensive and proactive than Mazda’s schedule.
30,000 miles:
- Replace Ignition coils
- Replace Plug wires
- Replace Spark plugs
- Clean MAF (mass air flow sensor)
- Clean ESS (e-shaft sensor)
- Reset ESS profile
- Clean power steering connections
- Clean battery terminals and clamps
- Replace transmission fluid
- Replace coolant (Mazda FL-22 is highly recommended)
- Replace air filter
- Replace brake fluid (fluid in the brake lines AND the clutch line)
~$300 USD in parts if you shop smartly.


every 60,000:
...all 30,000, plus...
- Clean all chassis electrical grounding points
- Replace accessory belts
- Clean OMP lines
- Replace rear differential fluid
- Replace thermostat
- Clean / Straighten AC condenser fins
- Clean / Straighten oil cooler fins
- Inspect catalytic converter
- Clean / Inspect intake valving
- Consider / inspect all points in 90,000+ as well, many items fail early
~$130 USD in parts if you shop smartly.

90,000:
...all 30,000, plus any 60,000 not yet done, plus...
- Replace coolant bottle
- Replace radiator hoses
- Replace radiator
- Replace front O2 sensor
- Replace motor mounts
- Inspect clutch pedal assembly for flex / weld breaks
~$900 USD in parts if you shop smartly.
At 100k, anything original in the cooling system is really suspect and failure prone. It represents the biggest threat to your engine.
__________________

 

^ good post, was this from one of the intro threads?

 

Yes, I don't claim authorship. It is from a club thread.