DIY: Starter Change Swap (for dummies)
01-15-2010, 12:08 PM
#1
DIY: Starter Change Swap (for dummies)
Well, after swapping starters on a few different RX8's, and seeing some other request help on the subject, I've decided to post another "DIY for dummies"
Starter Swap for 04-08 Manual Trans cars:
New info (6/2012)
Series 2 Starters will fit on Series 1:
OLD Series 1 Starters have a 11 tooth cog, upgraded have 13 teeth.
Series 2 Starters have 14 teeth and YES they do fit Series 1's.
Auto Transmission and Manual Transmission Starter Motors are different and can not be swapped.
Why: 04-05 cars were made with weak starters... Mazda improved the starters from then on with beefier starter motors. So, if you have an 04-05, you'll want to upgrade yours someday.
Who: 04-05 manual trans owners. Or any series 1 that needs a starter
How: Find an 06 or new RX8. Listen to their starter, and then listen yours... if it sounds like yours is slower, you have an old starter (Or, if you want to get technical, your starter will have the part number "N3H1"... if you have "N3H1 A", that means you have an upgraded starter. The other product number for the upgraded starter is "N3Z1" which came from later model years.... The non-upgraded starters are also about an inch shorter than the upgraded ones.
Pic 1 is a non upgraded - pic 2, 3, and 4 are of the different upgraded starters
Mazmart, junk yards, eBay, and the FS forum are all good spots to pick up an upgraded starter. Prices range from $50 bucks from a junk yard to $300+ for a new one... I'm sure dealers charge more.
Also... this just brought to my attention and I would quote it here for all to see....
With a "core" exchange policy of $75.00.
THESE PART NUMBERS AND INFORMATION ONLY APPLIES TO SERIES 1 RX-8'S
Just a Tip...
IF you are CHANGING your Starter for WHATEVER Reason, Please make sure your Cars Battery is in
A1 Condition, Always go for a battery with the Highest CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) you can find for your RX-8 in your Location.
A "Cheap" battery will give you poor starting results also in the long term or use.
Begin DIY:
So you've purchased your upgraded starter and you're ready to put it on. Confirm that the product code is an upgraded starter and you're ready to do this.
Tools needed:
Jack
1 Jack stand
Metric Socket set (i did this a few months ago and don't remember each socket size) 10mm,12mm and maybe 14mm and socket extension are always good.
work light (for seeing under the car)
Time: If you're working fast, and have all the tools you need at hand, you can get this done in about 15-25 min. If you're messing with a camera and don't have a work light... plan on 45 min to an hour.
Starter Swap for 04-08 Manual Trans cars:
New info (6/2012)
Series 2 Starters will fit on Series 1:
OLD Series 1 Starters have a 11 tooth cog, upgraded have 13 teeth.
Series 2 Starters have 14 teeth and YES they do fit Series 1's.
Auto Transmission and Manual Transmission Starter Motors are different and can not be swapped.
Why: 04-05 cars were made with weak starters... Mazda improved the starters from then on with beefier starter motors. So, if you have an 04-05, you'll want to upgrade yours someday.
Who: 04-05 manual trans owners. Or any series 1 that needs a starter
How: Find an 06 or new RX8. Listen to their starter, and then listen yours... if it sounds like yours is slower, you have an old starter (Or, if you want to get technical, your starter will have the part number "N3H1"... if you have "N3H1 A", that means you have an upgraded starter. The other product number for the upgraded starter is "N3Z1" which came from later model years.... The non-upgraded starters are also about an inch shorter than the upgraded ones.
Pic 1 is a non upgraded - pic 2, 3, and 4 are of the different upgraded starters
Mazmart, junk yards, eBay, and the FS forum are all good spots to pick up an upgraded starter. Prices range from $50 bucks from a junk yard to $300+ for a new one... I'm sure dealers charge more.
Also... this just brought to my attention and I would quote it here for all to see....
With a "core" exchange policy of $75.00.
THESE PART NUMBERS AND INFORMATION ONLY APPLIES TO SERIES 1 RX-8'S
Just a Tip...
IF you are CHANGING your Starter for WHATEVER Reason, Please make sure your Cars Battery is in
A1 Condition, Always go for a battery with the Highest CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) you can find for your RX-8 in your Location.
A "Cheap" battery will give you poor starting results also in the long term or use.
Begin DIY:
So you've purchased your upgraded starter and you're ready to put it on. Confirm that the product code is an upgraded starter and you're ready to do this.
Tools needed:
Jack
1 Jack stand
Metric Socket set (i did this a few months ago and don't remember each socket size) 10mm,12mm and maybe 14mm and socket extension are always good.
work light (for seeing under the car)
Time: If you're working fast, and have all the tools you need at hand, you can get this done in about 15-25 min. If you're messing with a camera and don't have a work light... plan on 45 min to an hour.
Last edited by Vyndictive; 06-13-2012 at 08:33 AM.
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grinn253 (08-03-2018)
01-15-2010, 12:12 PM
#2
Step 1. Pop Hood and disconnect battery. The starter is hardwired directly to the battery, meaning its always hot. DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP!
(Pic 1)
Step 2. Jack up front drivers side and place your jack stand.
(Pic 2)
Step 3. Locate starter. Its on the bottom left of the transmission/flywheel. Basically, just look for the thing that looks like the thing you just bought.
(Pic 3)
Step 4. Remove Wires: The start is wired in using 1 heavy gauge cable, and one smaller clip. Its easier to remove these first and do the bolts 2nd. You'll see the clip on the left of the starter solenoid itself. . This is a simple push disconnect harness, but since it lives on the bottom of your car, it'll take some force.
(pic 4)
Step 5. Remove battery wire: Above the smaller clip is a plastic housing that protects the hard line feed from the battery. This clip flips up toward the floor of the car relieving a nut. Flip up clip, loosen nut (8 or 10mm if i remember) remove wiring.
(pic 5 shows both wires off)
(Pic 1)
Step 2. Jack up front drivers side and place your jack stand.
(Pic 2)
Step 3. Locate starter. Its on the bottom left of the transmission/flywheel. Basically, just look for the thing that looks like the thing you just bought.
(Pic 3)
Step 4. Remove Wires: The start is wired in using 1 heavy gauge cable, and one smaller clip. Its easier to remove these first and do the bolts 2nd. You'll see the clip on the left of the starter solenoid itself. . This is a simple push disconnect harness, but since it lives on the bottom of your car, it'll take some force.
(pic 4)
Step 5. Remove battery wire: Above the smaller clip is a plastic housing that protects the hard line feed from the battery. This clip flips up toward the floor of the car relieving a nut. Flip up clip, loosen nut (8 or 10mm if i remember) remove wiring.
(pic 5 shows both wires off)
Last edited by Vyndictive; 01-15-2010 at 02:51 PM.
01-15-2010, 12:14 PM
#3
Step 6. Remove Bolts: There are only two bolts holding the start in place, the first is easy to see on located on the bottom of the starter. (Should be 12 or 14mm). Remove this one first.
Step 7: Remove bolt #2: The 2nd bolt is on top of the starter, it'll be easier if you use your extension here. Be careful with this one as this is a long bolt that attaches on the other side of the transmission. Upon loosening of this bolt, slide it out and be careful not to let the starter fall on your head.
(I stopped taking pics here cause I frustrated and wanted to be done, so you're on your own!)
Step 8: After old starter is removed, you can use this time to examine your flywheel and if you find that there is lots of fuzz/grey dust, it means your clutch is probably close to needing replaced. Its worth a look while you're down here.
Step 9: Install new starter and put back together in reverse order.
Top bolt
Bottom Bolt
Primary Batter wire
Small wiring clip
Re-connect Battery
Test
(Shut off car since it should have worked)
Remove jack stand and lower car.
Viola!
U werk on kars soo good!
Step 7: Remove bolt #2: The 2nd bolt is on top of the starter, it'll be easier if you use your extension here. Be careful with this one as this is a long bolt that attaches on the other side of the transmission. Upon loosening of this bolt, slide it out and be careful not to let the starter fall on your head.
(I stopped taking pics here cause I frustrated and wanted to be done, so you're on your own!)
Step 8: After old starter is removed, you can use this time to examine your flywheel and if you find that there is lots of fuzz/grey dust, it means your clutch is probably close to needing replaced. Its worth a look while you're down here.
Step 9: Install new starter and put back together in reverse order.
Top bolt
Bottom Bolt
Primary Batter wire
Small wiring clip
Re-connect Battery
Test
(Shut off car since it should have worked)
Remove jack stand and lower car.
Viola!
U werk on kars soo good!
01-15-2010, 12:59 PM
#4
Another excellent Vyndictive How-To. 
Note that all 04's and early 05's were entitled to a new starter and battery, but many dealers/owners may not have been aware of the TSB and therefore some pre-owned vehicles are in need. The TSB is no longer valid as all of these vehicles are now beyond their bumper to bumper warranty periods.
Note that all 04's and early 05's were entitled to a new starter and battery, but many dealers/owners may not have been aware of the TSB and therefore some pre-owned vehicles are in need. The TSB is no longer valid as all of these vehicles are now beyond their bumper to bumper warranty periods.
02-01-2010, 05:22 AM
#5
I just saw you made this DIY Steve... good job.
While this may seem like a simple DIY to those of us who have done this, many don't realize how simple this is or even where the starter is.
I would have to say that replacing the starter is probably one of the easiest things to replace in an RX8.
While this may seem like a simple DIY to those of us who have done this, many don't realize how simple this is or even where the starter is.
I would have to say that replacing the starter is probably one of the easiest things to replace in an RX8.
02-01-2010, 09:40 AM
#6
awesom DIY! i will be using this very soon. i'm pretty sure a new stater is riiiight up my alley. any recommendations on where to purchase a new/upgraded starter? my local CarQuest only offers a "remanned"...i think they said it was about $250. but i prefer to buy new things if possible....
02-01-2010, 09:51 AM
#7
Well, buying a new upgraded starter may be a problem. I heard that mazda actually switched back to the weaker starters for the series 2, but I can't confirm this.
A re manufactured starter would probably be fine as long as it is indeed upgraded. (See the part numbers I referenced above)
A re manufactured starter would probably be fine as long as it is indeed upgraded. (See the part numbers I referenced above)
02-04-2010, 04:26 AM
#8
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I just ordered mine from an 08 off of car-parts.com . Its a website that shows inventories of junk yards all across the states (for those that don't know). Just go on there and find what you need. Call the junkyard and get a quote shipped if need be. I got mine for 70 bucks shipped. So long as its from an 06-08 you should be ok. You could even double check by asking!
02-24-2010, 02:46 PM
#10
No, you are not my father
I'm experiencing hard hot starting on my 2004 RX-8 and I'm trying to determine if I have the new starter before delving any further. I was under the car doing brakes this weekend and looked, but couldn't see the tag with the p/n. I'm guessing it may have fallen off or it's on the top of the starter where I couldn't see it. I'll get a flashlight when I get home and see if I can see the top of the starter through the engine bay. If that doesn't work, can I differentiate between the starters by length? Looking at the pictures, the updated one looks longer. Does anyone have a dimension on the lengths of either or both starters?
02-24-2010, 03:04 PM
#11
I never did take a measurement, I really should have...
In fact... I think I have an old starter at my disposal and could get under my car and measure my "proper" starter.
Those stickers are on there pretty good, I bet its just on the top so you can't read it.
In fact... I think I have an old starter at my disposal and could get under my car and measure my "proper" starter.
Those stickers are on there pretty good, I bet its just on the top so you can't read it.
02-24-2010, 07:13 PM
#12
No, you are not my father
Yep, the sticker is on top. I could see the edge of it from under the hood, but not enough to make out the p/n. The clutch slave cylinder and the trans. bellhousing were blocking my view.
Vyndictive, if you get an opportunity to take a measurement it will be much appreciated. Otherwise I'll get under the car one evening/weekend with a mirror and a flashlight and see if I can make out the p/n. I'll also measure my starter and post it here, whichever version it is.
Vyndictive, if you get an opportunity to take a measurement it will be much appreciated. Otherwise I'll get under the car one evening/weekend with a mirror and a flashlight and see if I can make out the p/n. I'll also measure my starter and post it here, whichever version it is.
02-25-2010, 06:53 AM
#16
Or a telescoping mirror, readily available at any auto or electronics store. Everyone should have one in their tool bag to inspect hidden items.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...temnumber=7361
The updated starter placard is on the outboard side so it may be easily viewed, fwiw.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...temnumber=7361
The updated starter placard is on the outboard side so it may be easily viewed, fwiw.
03-07-2010, 06:00 PM
#17
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Hey Vyndictive, Thanks for this post... just what i was looking for. I have just bought an 04 RX8 and the starting has been quite annoying. I am going to look for a used starter motor on an 07-08 model.
I wanted to ask you your advice on changing the battery. At the moment i have the standard mazda battery. (192, 73K mileage) Would you recommend i change the battery aswell, as i read this contributes to bad starts...? If so what battery pack would you recommend.
Thanks
I wanted to ask you your advice on changing the battery. At the moment i have the standard mazda battery. (192, 73K mileage) Would you recommend i change the battery aswell, as i read this contributes to bad starts...? If so what battery pack would you recommend.
Thanks
03-07-2010, 08:09 PM
#18
^ deffently chaange the battery i would go optima for general use kenitik if you have car audio and stuff.. i just put a 06 starter on my 04 car. i just replaced my battery with a kenitik HC1800 with no luck. after i installed this starter and the bhr ignition kit it started right up. with the upgraded there is a noticable difference just in sound. and with the bhr i found power i never knew i have espc. 6k and up threw me back into my seat.
03-08-2010, 02:36 AM
#20
03-08-2010, 09:06 AM
#21
What these guys said. . . 
However, I think many are having good luck with Interstate batteries also for very general duty.
Personally, I have an optima yellow top (i have a set of subwoofers) and I have a red top in my truck.
The reason being, typically with an optima, you can automatically rule out a weak battery if you run into other problems...
But they're not cheap.... neither is the BHR ignition kit. An optima battery and a BHR kit will set you back close to $700 bucks... Both are very good quality and very reliable, but may be overkill if you're just driving your 8 around town. But that's for you to decide.
However, I think many are having good luck with Interstate batteries also for very general duty.
Personally, I have an optima yellow top (i have a set of subwoofers) and I have a red top in my truck.
The reason being, typically with an optima, you can automatically rule out a weak battery if you run into other problems...
But they're not cheap.... neither is the BHR ignition kit. An optima battery and a BHR kit will set you back close to $700 bucks... Both are very good quality and very reliable, but may be overkill if you're just driving your 8 around town. But that's for you to decide.
03-09-2010, 08:32 PM
#23
No, you are not my father
BTW, based on the sound in the video - I'm 99% sure I have the old starter . . . .
Thanks!
04-01-2010, 10:44 AM
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Hi,
Looking at the video, it does sound like I need an updated starter as well; which I will do now.
I had another question in the mean time:
I had upgraded the battery, replaced the spark plugs and done the decarb less than 10K miles ago on my automatic 04 RX8. I also had gotten P2070 code, which went away and I have been lazy (and scared) to fix this issue. I recently have started to experience the flooding when I shut my engine off on a downhill slope after driving on highway for about 20 miles. Its the same drive and I happen to park on the same spot and it already happened on last 3 tries. The car does start after few minutes of trying and using Mazda's deflooding procedure.
So, could it be something other than the starter itself? I had never had flooding before this and I have around 58K miles on it.
Looking at the video, it does sound like I need an updated starter as well; which I will do now.
I had another question in the mean time:
I had upgraded the battery, replaced the spark plugs and done the decarb less than 10K miles ago on my automatic 04 RX8. I also had gotten P2070 code, which went away and I have been lazy (and scared) to fix this issue. I recently have started to experience the flooding when I shut my engine off on a downhill slope after driving on highway for about 20 miles. Its the same drive and I happen to park on the same spot and it already happened on last 3 tries. The car does start after few minutes of trying and using Mazda's deflooding procedure.
So, could it be something other than the starter itself? I had never had flooding before this and I have around 58K miles on it.
04-01-2010, 09:39 PM
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make that 4 times straight. I went to the same downward slope, and shut down th engine....just to realize that it flooded again. I have never had problem starting from cold. In fact it even sounds like updated started when I start the car in the morning. Why do you guys think I am having this problem while the car is warm?
BTW, I did order the new starter from the same ebay vendor. Turns out, it costs $245 for the automatic starter.
BTW, I did order the new starter from the same ebay vendor. Turns out, it costs $245 for the automatic starter.