boothguy

The majority of the inaccurate info seems to be getting filtered out of this thread, so I'll just add a brief clarification.

Pinging/ spark knock/ detonation/ pre-ignition are all the same phenomenon are while not particularly good for a piston engine, will destroy a rotary in VERY short order by virtue of destroying the apex seals. That's the reason the knock sensor is such a vital piece of air/fuel/ignition management equipment on these motors.

RX8_Buckeye

First of all, it's not the "factory" that makes warranty repair decisions, it's the warranty division of the manufacturer. The vehicle manufacturer loses money every time it has to pay a dealer to make warranty repairs. In most circumstances, there is no way they would authorize the dealer to make a more expensive repair. Usually, it's cheaper to replace a part than to repair it. The reason is the high cost of technician time. The vehicle manufacturer doesn't want to pay for 12 hours of technician time repairing a part when they can get a brand new part and swap it out in 2 hours. Trust me, I work for Ford and I've been trained in dealer operations. I know for a FACT that what I've stated is the truth. Vehicle manufacturers don't want to pay for warranty repairs!!! I cannot believe I have people arguing with me about this. Can someone please back me up here.

I'm not sure what your point is here, because this supports what I'm telling you. Dealers won't do any warranty work unless they know they'll be paid by Mazda. The only reason they're skeptical about doing the flash is because they are afraid that they won't get paid. Even presenting the TSB isn't enough to reassure some dealers.

Logan072

I run 87octane in my 83 rx-7 because I hear it burns quicker, and it drives smoother. I buy my gas at Costco and use the 93 octane in the Rx-8.
I usually go with what my manual says, My 83 has been running strong with following it why should'nt the rx-8.

EatMyBanana

Well all i can say is , i am still not sure which grade of gas to run in my new 8 after reading this thread. But, i do know a lot more about pinging and knocking. I have used 93 in the 3 weeks of ownership but , i might try a little 89 soon.