I have a 2005 MT RX-8 with 91k miles. Mods include AEM cold air, BHR ignition coils and a gutted cat.

About 6 months ago, I started having start-up issues. It would take about 5 or 6 turns (2 or 3 seconds) before the engine started, hot or cold. I replaced the spark plugs and got an upgraded 2.0 kW starter. It didn't help much. Compression test showed low compression. At 300 RPM (because of new starter) Front: 7.8, 7.8, 8.0 and Rear: 7.5, 7.6, 7.5

I was bummed out but figured maybe I can drive it for another 2 years or so until I have enough saved for a new engine or another car. I started pre-mixing and tried to get a redline in every so often.

A few days ago, my start up has gotten worse; it takes about 9 or 10 turns (about 5 seconds) before starting, hot or cold. I also notice a bit of loss of power at low RPMs. It idles fine though. Is 2 years wishful thinking? How much longer before it becomes impractical to use?

Thanks,
Tom

 

There isn't really a schedule for these things. You said you replaced the spark plugs, but did you do the coils as well? Not that your compression is stellar, but it could just be a coil issue.

[edit] oops, I missed that you have BHR coils.

 

^what he said. I understand you got BHR Ignition, when was it put in?? Have you tested the coils just in case, cause that could be coil problem as well as compression. When was the compression test(6 months ago)? 5 seconds is a REALLY long time. My starts were at 2-2.5 seconds with mid 5's on each rotor.

 

If the start speed is similar hot and cold, don't worry about the engine yet, look for another problem.

Ignition coils, plug wires, grounding problem, and fouled ESS are the things I'd point at first. The compression test shows that your battery and starter are fine.

 

Hey guys, you're all right. It was a coil problem. I finally changed back to my stock coils (weather was cold and I was somewhat busy). My car starts up a lot faster and some power was restored.

I thought BHR kits last forever. The member I purchased it from put about 20k miles on it. Since then, I put about 6k miles on it. I'm pretty sure I installed it correctly; it was working for a few months before the problem started.

Thanks

 

You can always try to seafoam - hell we can do it together when you pick up your cobb.