FatherSonRX8

Had our first RX8 (2093) since Christmas 2019 now.
This is our son’s first car, & first manual transmission.
He learned quickly, but it was still like finger nails on a chalk board initially for the clutch.
seemed to me like it engaged when purchased at about 15-20% clutch depression.
Took it for a spin today, seems opposite like not engage by until 75% depression.
Do I need to start planning a clutch replacement now? Or is an adjustment required?
if I have to replace the clutch now, I see many suggesting lower weight fly wheels... good idea or not fight now?

Thanks in advance!

CaymanRotary

Losing weight in the clutch could indicate a master cylinder issue. Is the reservoir topped up? I’ve had these fail before, may need to replace both master and slave cylinders if there’s fluid but you are having to press way down and the clutch pedal not returning to position it could be that. Lightweight flywheel good gives better engine response. If the clutch pedal returns fully you could need a new pressure plate. In which case: Exedy Stage 1 Clutch Kit.

FatherSonRX8

Thanks for the response!
Actually, just failed today... ugh.
Engine is fine, no diagnostic indicators, I can depress the clutch all the way in and shift through the gear positions... but whether in 1st or reverse when the clutch is released there is no engagement at all. Engine revs, but transmission doesn't engage. Pulled it over, had to tow it to a transmission shop. Foul smell like clutch burning, but this problem seemed like a gradual loss of where on the clutch pedal position would engage the trans. No fluid loss noticed when parked, but missed the chance to check before towing. Almost seems like the clutch isn't being engaged by the pedal, like a linkage has slipped over time or something. Normally in other cars if the clutch was shot I couldn't get it into gear. This is the opposite, I can move through the gears, but the clutch pedal action doesn't cause the trans to engage. Garage tech said it'd be ready by Monday afternoon, anxious to learn more. Any ideas greatly appreciated & will update with whatever we learn asap. Tick tock & $?$.

CaymanRotary

You definitely need a clutch kit. This sounds like a bad pressure plate but could also be caused by a bad clutch disc. Just get the whole clutch kit just in case. Make sure you get an Exedy clutch kit and purchase Mazda throwout bearings separately. I dont trust the Exedy throwout bearings. While the transmission is down, ensure the mechanic checks out the input shaft bearings and the clutch fork. This is the best time to have them changed out. Input shaft bearing labor will be expensive so hopefully they are ok.