Thanks in advance for any help on this. I searched high and low to see if anyone had addressed this question already but to no avail.

2004 RX8 with Automatic. 120K Low compression and coolant in oil...... won't start.

Have purchased a JDM engine, Trans combo with all accessories already bolted up. Understand that I will want to use my existing ECU. (55k donor engine with confirmed compression)

Question: What is the best method to remove and replace the entire engine and transmission together? I understand that the manual says to drop the sub frame and take it out the bottom. I have read the DIY on just the engine removal out the top. Was wondering if it would be possible or easier to remove radiator and front bumper/lights etc. and just slide everything out the front complete. Dropping the sub frame would mean it's not a rolling chassis for a good part of the transplant process which is a pain in the *** given my space.

Have done multiple engine swaps on FWD/RWD before but this is the first Rotary. Any insight is appreciated.

I will definitely take pics of the process to contribute back to the group.

Thanks
JohnR

 

If you have a hoist you can drop it out the bottom intact. Otherwise I would take the motor out the top.