Hi, I have a 2005 Rx-8 had it about 2weeks now and I love the car! Only issue is when revving her or pulling off (fast or slow) I hear what sounds like broken glass being thrown around. This sound only occurs when revving etc. I've been told it's no biggie and probably something loose. Now when I got the car I didn't realise she had no tail pipes (was too excited at the fact I got the car for FREE) someone literally cut them off from the back box so my theory is when the idot who done this cut the pipes some metal fell in the holes and now there's trapped prices of metal in there? Sound plausible?? Anyway I've ordered a new stainless steel toyosports exhaust and will be fitting it asa it arrives. So if this stops the noise I will update the post.

Also I need new bushes at the front, can anyone recommend a place to buy these? I'm from London UK

 

It's more likely there was a problem with the catalyst/catalytic converter at some time and pieces from that are stuck in the mufflers. When you do the "Catback Muffler" replacement, the noise should go away.

 

Thanks! I hope this is the case, my new exhaust system should be here by Tuesday latest. If this sound does persist though when I put my new system on wont the bits get into that aswell?

 

When you are putting in the new exhaust, take a look inside your cat and make sure it is healthy.

Normally the front of the cat fails first and clogs up the cat, but there's no harm in checking.

 

K, so i replaced the cat back today and i am amazed by the results! Shes stopped making that horrible glass noise and replaced it with a deep bassy roar, and spitting flames is easy..

But..

When i put the new midpipe in i found it almost impossible to get the nut to catch the thread of the bolt to the catalytic converter downpipe.. (Cos of the spring).. So what ive done is turned the nut the other way so the thread is catching from inside the spring. Not ideal i know, but at this point i was desperate, i think were i went wrong is i connected the midepipe to the hanger 1st?? Anyway, ive tightened the bolt up real good but im just curious as to what could go wrong here apart from the obvious, the nut be PITA on next removal.

Thanks.

 

#UPDATE#
I couldnt put the second nut on its bolt because when i put the first nut on it made the plate move diagonally.. I'll attach a link of the catback system so you can see the midpipe for yourself to get a clearer understanding of what i mean..
MAZDA RX8 2004-2009 STAINLESS STEEL CAT BACK CATBACK EXHAUST SYSTEM | eBay

 

What was the HP loss from that cat back?

 

Ummm :S I was under the impression that a cat back system gives a slight HP gain whether it be 3+ etc.. To be honest mate, she feels a lot more responsive so I wouldn't say I've lost BHP with this system. Feels, sounds and looks better!