Hey all,

I'm starting to order parts ready to get the RX-8 back up to snuff. Forgetting the engine things for a minute (that's in another thread), I'm curious on the groups experience with clutch replacement.

The clutch slip right now is horrendous. So much so that when I was handed the keys I was told "when you want to go just dump the clutch". I wasn't sure what to expect so tried driving the car normally. Sure enough there is no bite! You can let the clutch out the entire way and it will fully slip with the handbrake engaged. It will eventually go (slowly) but it feels like it has a torque converter!

I'm going to order a new pressure plate, disk, throw-out bearing and release bearing (all OEM). I'm just wondering if I can get away with having the flywheel turned. The car has 118K on it. I appreciate I won't know for sure until I get everything apart but thought I'd see what others have experienced?

 

The more the clutch has been slipped the more likely it will have been heated up hot enough to have issues. There should be lots floating around as they are commonly replaced with aftermarket units

 

Any you can recommend? I always like to stick to OEM but if I can get it cheaper than $247 then it would be good

Also I can't find the pilot bearing on any of the Mazda parts diagrams. I've been through the clutch and Eccentric Shaft/Fly Wheel diagrams to no avail. Am I missing something?

 

Bearing is N326-11-D03
Seal is 1881-11-404A


I have an OEM new flywheel and clutch from a Reman...but I'm in Canada so it would be a PIA to get it to you

 

You very likely do not need to replace the flywheel and can just have it turned. You will simply need to adjust the clutch pedal for proper engagement once everything is assembled. See the FSM for the procedure and measurements.