Notices
RX-8 Discussion General discussion about the RX-8 that doesn't fit in one of the specialty forums.
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by: CARiD

Dumb Question Thread - no flaming or sarcasm allowed

Old Jun 26, 2014 | 11:26 AM
  #3701  
paimon.soror's Avatar
Registered
iTrader: (15)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 7,560
Likes: 27
From: Between Cones
Originally Posted by badinfluence
Is the RX8 S2's E-Brake hydraulic like the Gen 2 Mazdaspeed 3's?
Nope, cable driven like the S1.

CABLE LEFT (L), R. - PARK. PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM. Mazda RX-8 (2009 - 2011) # F18944420
Reply
Old Jun 26, 2014 | 04:03 PM
  #3702  
Rx8 Dave's Avatar
Wankler
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 175
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta, Georgia
Question Gear / speed related noise

Originally Posted by 1337haXXor
Ok, so interesting issue.
About 2-5 times per ~15 minute drive, there is a difficult to describe sound (like a hissing and a rattling, but very low profile. Not "rattling" rattling, almost like a rhythmic hissing) at specific times:
After being under 3k RPM for ~1 minute, EXACTLY when I hit 3k RPM in 3rd gear (30MPH), the sound starts, lasts for 3-5 seconds NO MATTER WHAT (slowing down, speeding up, changing gear really quickly, shifting into Neutral, and with any of these, the "rhythm" of the sound stays the same), and then goes away. There is no noticeable performance or voltage (I have an OBDII).
3 or 4 times it happened at 4k RPM in 4th (50-something MPH).

Any ideas?
Do you have a six speed, five speed, or AT? If an AT, are you manually shifting? Does it make the noise at 3K and 4K RPMs when you've got it in neutral and it's parked? If a manual transmission, at 3K RPMs in 3rd gear and 4K RPMs in 4th gear with the clutch in and parked? If you drive it and run it up to 3K RPMs in 2nd gear, and 4K RPMs in 3rd gear does it make the noise? Where does the sound seem to come from (run it with and without windows open)? Also, with and without the air conditioner on?
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 01:08 AM
  #3703  
ilikepeanutbutter's Avatar
New Member
 
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Question 05 rx8 , need advice

Im set on buying a 6 speed 2005 rx8 but the one I am looking at has a o2 sensor on.. I don't believe there is an actual problem with the oxygen emission but if there were it would only cost me $50 or less to fix.. but what im wondering is with the o2 sensor being on and may need to be fixed is this a huge problem??

also I live in Michigan and we get very harsh winters, I would not like to drive the rx8 in the winter but there is a possibility I will need to... so how exactly would it handle in the winter and up hills in the winter with a good pair of snow tires?


if some people could help me out please ?
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 01:23 AM
  #3704  
Williard's Avatar
Dark Moderator
iTrader: (18)
 
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,223
Likes: 186
From: PA, corn fields. Ho-bud
Ilikepeanutbutter, I live in PA and have only had to drive the 8 a few times in the snow. When i did though, with good snow tires i didn't really have any issue's.

Before you purchase ANY RX8 i would suggest that you read through this. https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...t-here-202454/

Can you explain a bit, what exactly you mean by "the O2sensor is on"? Do you have a specific code?

Also another important thing to remember is ALWAYS have a compression test completed BEFORE purchase.
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 07:59 AM
  #3705  
badinfluence's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 377
Likes: 2
From: Central, IL
Originally Posted by ilikepeanutbutter
Im set on buying a 6 speed 2005 rx8 but the one I am looking at has a o2 sensor on.. I don't believe there is an actual problem with the oxygen emission but if there were it would only cost me $50 or less to fix.. but what im wondering is with the o2 sensor being on and may need to be fixed is this a huge problem??

also I live in Michigan and we get very harsh winters, I would not like to drive the rx8 in the winter but there is a possibility I will need to... so how exactly would it handle in the winter and up hills in the winter with a good pair of snow tires?


if some people could help me out please ?
Do NOT let the dealer fool you into any fix. Any lights that are on need to be fixed before you pull the trigger. Could be the sensor, or it could be the whole cat system, or it could be the fuel system is fucked and the apex seals are toast.

Definitely listen to Willard on this one. Compression test it, and know what you are getting into. Catalytic converters are not cheap to fix, IF you can find someone to do it for you. It is a federal law to screw with them. Also make sure you have one on there. Not having one could trigger the light too.

Also get the Carfax and see how many times the car has been to Auction and where. When multiple dealers dumps a car fast, they usually have a reason.
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 11:24 AM
  #3706  
1337haXXor's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 19
Likes: 3
Originally Posted by Rx8 Dave
Do you have a six speed, five speed, or AT? If an AT, are you manually shifting? Does it make the noise at 3K and 4K RPMs when you've got it in neutral and it's parked? If a manual transmission, at 3K RPMs in 3rd gear and 4K RPMs in 4th gear with the clutch in and parked? If you drive it and run it up to 3K RPMs in 2nd gear, and 4K RPMs in 3rd gear does it make the noise? Where does the sound seem to come from (run it with and without windows open)? Also, with and without the air conditioner on?
6 Speed, I haven't noticed it in neutral, and yesterday it happened at ~4.5k RPM in 4th, so the numbers may not be significant. I DID notice, however, that it only happens when the AC is on... So it must be a part of that. Sounds like it's coming from the front right, right in front of the glove.
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 05:48 PM
  #3707  
Rx8 Dave's Avatar
Wankler
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 175
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta, Georgia
Question Noise passenger side with A/C on

Originally Posted by 1337haXXor
Ok, so interesting issue.
About 2-5 times per ~15 minute drive, there is a difficult to describe sound (like a hissing and a rattling, but very low profile. Not "rattling" rattling, almost like a rhythmic hissing) at specific times:
After being under 3k RPM for ~1 minute, EXACTLY when I hit 3k RPM in 3rd gear (30MPH), the sound starts, lasts for 3-5 seconds NO MATTER WHAT (slowing down, speeding up, changing gear really quickly, shifting into Neutral, and with any of these, the "rhythm" of the sound stays the same), and then goes away. There is no noticeable performance or voltage (I have an OBDII).
3 or 4 times it happened at 4k RPM in 4th (50-something MPH).

Any ideas?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rx8 Dave
Do you have a six speed, five speed, or AT? If an AT, are you manually shifting? Does it make the noise at 3K and 4K RPMs when you've got it in neutral and it's parked? If a manual transmission, at 3K RPMs in 3rd gear and 4K RPMs in 4th gear with the clutch in and parked? If you drive it and run it up to 3K RPMs in 2nd gear, and 4K RPMs in 3rd gear does it make the noise? Where does the sound seem to come from (run it with and without windows open)? Also, with and without the air conditioner on?

Originally Posted by 1337haXXor
6 Speed, I haven't noticed it in neutral, and yesterday it happened at ~4.5k RPM in 4th, so the numbers may not be significant. I DID notice, however, that it only happens when the AC is on... So it must be a part of that. Sounds like it's coming from the front right, right in front of the glove.
Geez, I'm somewhat at a loss. The SSV (SSV: Secondary Shutter Valve / Secondary Side Valve) is on the left and opens at 3750 RPM, but it doesn't sound like it's the SSV or its actuator especially since the sound happens at times and only happens with the A/C on. The air pump is on the passenger side, but it only pumps air into the catalytic converter when the engine is cold.

Since the sound is coming from the glove box side of your car when the A/C is on, I'm wondering if this is an A/C related noise. While the A/C compressor is on the driver's side, the refrigerant lines enter the firewall at, the high compression line is on, and the blower unit is on, the passenger/glove box side, with the A/C unit in the center a bit toward the glove box (see Attached Thumbnail). The A/C passenger compartment air filter is behind the glove box.

You might want to check a shop manual (for example, M A Z D A). In that manual, for A/C go to http://foxed.ca/rx7manual/2003mazdar..._S01_0651.html then tap on "No. 9 Noise While Operating A/C System" to see if anything seems applicable. Also, while you're at it, check your cabin air filter, which needs to be replaced periodically

Good luck. Maybe some others will chime in with other ideas. (hint, hint) Anyway, let us know how you're progressing with this problem.
Attached Thumbnails Dumb Question Thread - no flaming or sarcasm allowed-image.jpg  

Last edited by Rx8 Dave; Jun 27, 2014 at 06:03 PM.
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 06:12 PM
  #3708  
catchb52's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Marshield Wi
How screwed am I?

I am selling my 2005 8 with 42000 miles on it. Looking at a 2011 with 10,000 miles

So, car just had new coilks, wires, plugs at 42,000. Cooling system was serviced at 35,000 miles.

Father and son come over to check out the car and we go for a nice drive. Kid was mostly in third and forth doing around 60. Had the ac on. I am in the passenger side, so can't see the guages.

We pull into my driveway and let the car run while we are talking about the car when I smell hot coolant. Temp guage is up but not all the way to H.

Turn the car off and see steam excaping from the overflow.

Let the car cool off, check the coolkant level (still in the full area). Start the car and it starts normally. Istill showing middle of the temp gauge and I don't hear any fans running.

I will get the codes checked, but no warning lights are on.

This group has always been helpful, so I would appreciate your thoughts. The car has never gone past mid guage on me in the past and it gets driven aggressively periodically.

I know I need to check the fuses for the fans, but I would appreciate any thoughts on other possible things it may be. It will go in to the shop on Monday to be on the safe side.

BTW. Car ran perfectly after the points, plugs and coil replacement about 150 miles back, but could it be I got plugs or wires wrong?
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 08:27 PM
  #3709  
catchb52's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Marshield Wi
Originally Posted by catchb52
I am selling my 2005 8 with 42000 miles on it. Looking at a 2011 with 10,000 miles

So, car just had new coilks, wires, plugs at 42,000. Cooling system was serviced at 35,000 miles.

Father and son come over to check out the car and we go for a nice drive. Kid was mostly in third and forth doing around 60. Had the ac on. I am in the passenger side, so can't see the guages.

We pull into my driveway and let the car run while we are talking about the car when I smell hot coolant. Temp guage is up but not all the way to H.

Turn the car off and see steam excaping from the overflow.

Let the car cool off, check the coolkant level (still in the full area). Start the car and it starts normally. Istill showing middle of the temp gauge and I don't hear any fans running.

I will get the codes checked, but no warning lights are on.

This group has always been helpful, so I would appreciate your thoughts. The car has never gone past mid guage on me in the past and it gets driven aggressively periodically.

I know I need to check the fuses for the fans, but I would appreciate any thoughts on other possible things it may be. It will go in to the shop on Monday to be on the safe side.

BTW. Car ran perfectly after the points, plugs and coil replacement about 150 miles back, but could it be I got plugs or wires wrong?
Here is an update. Found the fan fuse blown. Code reader is showing everything good. In reading on this web. Others have recommended going to a 50 amp fuse for the fans. I picked up a 40 and a 50. Anyone feel using the 50 is not a good idea?.

Fans came on and I drove the car aggressively with the ac on. Temp did not get to middle
Reply
Old Jun 27, 2014 | 08:41 PM
  #3710  
catchb52's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Marshield Wi
[QUOTE=catchb52;4610630]Here is an update. Found the fan fuse blown. Code reader is showing everything good. In reading on this web. Others have recommended going to a 50 amp fuse for the fans. I picked up a 40 and a 50. Anyone feel using the 50 is not a good idea?.
May have the answer on why the fuse blew. Read a post that says when you put the air box back in, you can dislodge a grommet that can fall into the fan. I did remove the air box when I did the tuneup. Will pull it tomorrow and see if the fan on that side is free.
Reply
Old Jun 28, 2014 | 06:44 AM
  #3711  
BigCajun's Avatar
Banned
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 0
Likes: 2,703
[QUOTE=catchb52;4610636]
Originally Posted by catchb52
Here is an update. Found the fan fuse blown. Code reader is showing everything good. In reading on this web. Others have recommended going to a 50 amp fuse for the fans. I picked up a 40 and a 50. Anyone feel using the 50 is not a good idea?.
May have the answer on why the fuse blew. Read a post that says when you put the air box back in, you can dislodge a grommet that can fall into the fan. I did remove the air box when I did the tuneup. Will pull it tomorrow and see if the fan on that side is free.
Yeah, that happened last time I did mine, but luckily I noticed it. I was able to get it out with one of those claw grabber thingys.
I thought about glueing them in place next time, don't know if it'll work, but I'll try it anyway.
I dropped a battery hold down too, that was a pita.
I don't know about the fuse size.
Reply
Old Jun 28, 2014 | 08:23 AM
  #3712  
Klathmon's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
Originally Posted by 1337haXXor
6 Speed, I haven't noticed it in neutral, and yesterday it happened at ~4.5k RPM in 4th, so the numbers may not be significant. I DID notice, however, that it only happens when the AC is on... So it must be a part of that. Sounds like it's coming from the front right, right in front of the glove.
I've had that before. It sounds like a cross between a squeaking and a hissing.

It was the AC belt squeaking. (the AC compressor turns on and off as it's needed to keep the air coming in cool, so you probably keep hearing it when it's on) I found that it sounds like it's coming from the passenger side when you are driving, and it sounds like it's coming from the drivers side when you are in the passenger seat. I think this is because it's actually right in the middle of the car.

Getting a new belt will stop it, but it's not exactly an issue if you belt is visually fine, so if it doesn't really bother you there is nothing you need to do.

Last edited by Klathmon; Jun 28, 2014 at 08:26 AM.
Reply
Old Jun 28, 2014 | 05:13 PM
  #3713  
Rx8 Dave's Avatar
Wankler
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 175
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta, Georgia
Front noise - possibly AC belt

Originally Posted by Klathmon
I've had that before. It sounds like a cross between a squeaking and a hissing.

It was the AC belt squeaking. (the AC compressor turns on and off as it's needed to keep the air coming in cool, so you probably keep hearing it when it's on) I found that it sounds like it's coming from the passenger side when you are driving, and it sounds like it's coming from the drivers side when you are in the passenger seat. I think this is because it's actually right in the middle of the car.

Getting a new belt will stop it, but it's not exactly an issue if you belt is visually fine, so if it doesn't really bother you there is nothing you need to do.
My previous cite -http://foxed.ca/rx7manual/2003mazdarx8/esicont/en/srvc/html/node_S01_0651.html includes the diagnostic re: the belt (actually you can go directly to it at NO.9 NOISE WHILE OPERATING A/C SYSTEM). In any event, if it's the belt, and it's in good shape, I would still check the belt tension. A belt that is improperly tensioned can cause problems.
Reply
Old Jun 29, 2014 | 12:11 AM
  #3714  
Pumas1027's Avatar
New Member
 
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Test drove an '05 RX-8 today and I have a question!

So I've been doing my fair share of research about rotary engines and the RX-8 lately because I'm looking to purchase a new car. I took an '05 for a test drive today and I really liked the way it drove and it was in great shape, but there was one issue that concerned me. When the car would come to a stop it idled pretty hard, and the car would shake rather hard. Anyone know if this is a serious issue or what might be causing this?

The CEL was on while I drove it, but the dealer said that he has the parts on order to take care of that...I don't know if that's related to the shaking issue.

Thanks!!
Reply
Old Jun 29, 2014 | 12:15 AM
  #3715  
Wolfe's Avatar
Yellow looks faster.
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 445
Likes: 0
From: North NJ - Utah - Arizona
Car is running "abnormally hot" for the given air temp... started happening today. Peaked at like 212. While driving tonight was around 208 and it was like 75 out. It usually stays around 190 at that air temp... Thoughts? I was not using AC or anything. Car seemed to idle a little rougher as well. Strangely, when it was 90 outside earlier I was getting the same temps... I think I'm going to buy an aluminum radiator. These temps scare me. Until then, Im going to put foam in the gaps around the rad to get that airflow... I read through the forums and read some suggestions, but I wanted to post my situation.
Reply
Old Jun 29, 2014 | 12:34 AM
  #3716  
Legot's Avatar
Scrappy
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 1,193
Likes: 8
From: Arizona
Two questions!

I just got my car, and I only have one key. Is the only option for getting another chipped one going to Mazda?

Also, what's the deal with the RX8performance vendor guy?
Reply
Old Jun 29, 2014 | 03:15 AM
  #3717  
StealthTL's Avatar
Metatron
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 7,286
Likes: 184
From: A Pacific Island.
AFAIK, the only way to get a second chipped key and program it is thru the dealer.
Once you have TWO, you can buy and cut copies, and program them your own self, but you are SOL if you only have one.

Not qualified to answer your second Q....
Reply
Old Jun 29, 2014 | 06:34 AM
  #3718  
BigCajun's Avatar
Banned
iTrader: (1)
 
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 0
Likes: 2,703
Originally Posted by Pumas1027
So I've been doing my fair share of research about rotary engines and the RX-8 lately because I'm looking to purchase a new car. I took an '05 for a test drive today and I really liked the way it drove and it was in great shape, but there was one issue that concerned me. When the car would come to a stop it idled pretty hard, and the car would shake rather hard. Anyone know if this is a serious issue or what might be causing this?

The CEL was on while I drove it, but the dealer said that he has the parts on order to take care of that...I don't know if that's related to the shaking issue.

Thanks!!
Shaking could be bad motor mounts.
Ask the dealer for a printout of the scan they got for the CEL to determine what parts are needed.
If it's a Mazda dealer, ask for a compression test, if not, ask them if they could get a rotary specific test done.
Read the new owner stickies.
Good luck!
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 12:02 AM
  #3719  
Rx8 Dave's Avatar
Wankler
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 175
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta, Georgia
Question Cooling Problem

Originally Posted by Wolfe
Car is running "abnormally hot" for the given air temp... started happening today. Peaked at like 212. While driving tonight was around 208 and it was like 75 out. It usually stays around 190 at that air temp... Thoughts? I was not using AC or anything. Car seemed to idle a little rougher as well. Strangely, when it was 90 outside earlier I was getting the same temps... I think I'm going to buy an aluminum radiator. These temps scare me. Until then, Im going to put foam in the gaps around the rad to get that airflow... I read through the forums and read some suggestions, but I wanted to post my situation.
I trust you've seen the thread at https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-do-...c-42322/page9/ especially comment #220 by ASH8 where he has a checklist. I've seen folks running 206º with waterless coolant. I think good is 180º cruising, 195º traffic, with water / coolant; but I've seen some have up to 210º without them worrying. However, I agree with you on the 212º reading - 212º is the boiling point of water and, even in a closed system and with coolant, that seems high to me and flirting with steam pockets in the cooling jackets. If you haven't considered this - you may have a blockage or partial blockage somewhere, and you may just need a good flush. Also, if you're running water / coolant check your mixture and consider adding a water wetter like Red Line Waterwetter (Red Line Synthetic Oil - WaterWetter® Coolant Additives).

アメリカ合衆国で行われました。
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 12:39 AM
  #3720  
Rx8 Dave's Avatar
Wankler
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 175
Likes: 1
From: Atlanta, Georgia
Question Speaking of Coolant....

I have always heard, and read on this forum, that Peak Long Life antifreeze/coolant is just fine for the 8 and, being glycol, is equivalent to FL-22.

Since FL-22 was largely recommended because of the silicone sealant in the engine that is exposed to the coolant, does it still hold true today that the Peak Long Life has equivalent silicone sealant protection properties of FL-22 and is, otherwise, the same?

Thanks
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 02:24 PM
  #3721  
Waylon Chen's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 145
Likes: 0
Is it ok to use a/c during a hot ride?

should I use air conditioning? Is it like brings air through coolant that is used for engine cooling? Will it creat a possibility to overload the cooling system?
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 03:01 PM
  #3722  
paimon.soror's Avatar
Registered
iTrader: (15)
 
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 7,560
Likes: 27
From: Between Cones
Waylon;

I think the best thing to do here is to check out this link to learn more about how the air conditioning system in cars work:

HowStuffWorks "How Automotive Air Conditioning Works"

Does it increase the engine load? Yes, Enough to harm the engine? No
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 03:09 PM
  #3723  
kevinande's Avatar
Day Walker
 
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 585
Likes: 18
Originally Posted by Waylon Chen
should I use air conditioning? Is it like brings air through coolant that is used for engine cooling? Will it creat a possibility to overload the cooling system?
Is this a real question?
Reply
Old Jun 30, 2014 | 11:21 PM
  #3724  
ken-x8's Avatar
Registered
 
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 5,027
Likes: 5
From: Northern Virginia
Looks like a real question to me. I'd say English is not Waylon's first language, so we need to be flexible about grammar.

Waylon - when AC is running, air passes through the condenser, which is in front of the radiator. The radiator thus has hotter air flowing into it, so engine cooling is taxed more than if AC were not on. AC consumes engine power, so that also adds to the heat load.

But as long as you're not overheating, go ahead and use the AC.

Ken
Reply
Old Jul 1, 2014 | 03:34 PM
  #3725  
Team Tora Productions's Avatar
Professional Videographer
 
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 72
Likes: 0
From: Reno, NV
I was wondering if anyone knew of custom modification shops for mechanical, interior, and exterior modifications of the vehicle? I wanted to get a custom exhaust system and racing headers and possibly either a 3 rotor install, or a sequential rally transmission on my 2 rotor. I can't find racing headers anywhere, all the places who do 3 rotor installs USED to do 3 rotor installs, and nobody has any experience with rx8's and sequential shifting.

The only headers I've found are from like RacingBeat or some other mainstream producer. I'm looking for something that is lightweight, stainless steal, and designed specifically for competition. I don't care about flashy hotness. I will be heat rapping the pipes and nobody can see inside the engine bay on a race track anyway.

Other than that, can someone recommend me a great set of suspension for the rx8 to be more competitive, but still capable of being used on the street? I'm not looking to slam the car, just something like a solid suspension and sway bar set up. My stock suspension has started to affect my body roll and I'm looking to upgrade.

For now, please consider money abundant to answer the above. I know much of the stuff I am asking for is expensive and it won't be purchased all at one time.
Reply

Thread Tools
Rate This Thread
Rate This Thread:
You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:46 PM.