DIY: Starter Change Swap (for dummies)
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Joined: Apr 2012
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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.
Is there any way of checking to see if my starter was upgraded on my 04 without crawling under the car? I got my recall history and it doesn't show any starter change. I found an upgraded starter off an 06 for just $50. I've done an 8 clutch so I know the starter itself is easy. I just don't have time right now to get under the car.
background: optima red top, 112k miles, new plugs, not sure of coils, doesn't seem to start super quick... sluggish
edit: the one I'm looking at is marked N3H1 A
Posted From RX8Club.com Android App
background: optima red top, 112k miles, new plugs, not sure of coils, doesn't seem to start super quick... sluggish
edit: the one I'm looking at is marked N3H1 A
Posted From RX8Club.com Android App
Last edited by Bugler; Apr 17, 2014 at 11:10 AM.
Check the pictures below:
Mine may not be OEM but a refurbished; but you can clearly see the difference in size, the updated starter from the dealer should be the same.
Mine may not be OEM but a refurbished; but you can clearly see the difference in size, the updated starter from the dealer should be the same.
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Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 44
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From: Abq NM
Updated starter already?
I'm recently new to the 8. I found out the starter had already been updated. When? Idk. While my car was awaiting other repairs, I decided to pull it out and clean it up. It'll take some patience but in the long run will pay off if you starter is in good enough shape. Mine had definitely shown improvement with increased cranking speed. Lots of gunk overtime getting in there and slowing it down!
Last edited by Integr8; Jul 22, 2014 at 03:55 PM. Reason: Wrong word
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Joined: Aug 2014
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I know this thread is old...
So Ive gotten a little flak about posting on super old threads but a tid bit of knowledge is that an upgraded starter is 1.8kw or 2.0kw and the original is a 1.4kw just to have a tech type of spec if ordering through autozone or somewhere like that. I'm personally ordering the 2.0 this week I've upgraded everything else this past Sunday so why not do this while I'm waiting for the snow to clear out so i can get it out of storage. I'm getting quicker starts with my fresh plugs and bhr ignition 3 of 4 of my old coils were shot. With 8.5mm wires the 8 is acting and sounding so much smoother and stronger. Mines an 05 6sp rx8 with injen cai decat free flow cat back with 3.5in tips bhr ignition it all looks stock outside the tips look like there supposed to be that size next is cobb starter possible radiator and brakes.
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 and Manual Starters still apply.
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....
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 and Manual Starters still apply.
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....
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.
also, only the S2 starter is 2kw and you can now buy it half off @ amazon (thanks 9k)
Amazon.com: mazda rx8 starter: Automotive
Amazon.com: mazda rx8 starter: Automotive
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 18
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Nice
Nice but i have an 05 6sp just to specify what i looked for when going to get mine. I found a 13 tooth for 2kw a little over 100 on ebay. Just to share if people are looking for one there there
also, only the S2 starter is 2kw and you can now buy it half off @ amazon (thanks 9k)
Amazon.com: mazda rx8 starter: Automotive
Amazon.com: mazda rx8 starter: Automotive
Super Moderator
Joined: Apr 2005
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From: Australia
Proper S2 MT Starters have 14 teeth which will fit and work in all S1 Manuals.
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Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 126
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From: Ft Knox, KY
Nice write up. Just got my new starter in the mail (13 teeth) and will replacing it this weekend since I had some cold start issues.
After the starter im get a comp test done to make sure my engine is good to go
After the starter im get a comp test done to make sure my engine is good to go
n00b
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 73
Likes: 0
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Just wanted to say thanks for this DIY... really was an easy job with the exception of the one long (top) bolt which was really stuck on there good, and I couldn't get a decent angle (my only cheater bar was a 24" which was too long with a standard hex head socket) but aside from that, it was a super easy swap out.
FWIW, I have a 2004 MT and bought my starter from Autozone.com In order to get the correct starter, I entered my car as an '08 MT which then spec'd out the 2kW 13 tooth starter for $99. Sure enough, when I pulled the starter, it was the original one from '04.
The sound this new one makes is sooooooooooo much nicer. So thanks again for this DIY!
FWIW, I have a 2004 MT and bought my starter from Autozone.com In order to get the correct starter, I entered my car as an '08 MT which then spec'd out the 2kW 13 tooth starter for $99. Sure enough, when I pulled the starter, it was the original one from '04.
The sound this new one makes is sooooooooooo much nicer. So thanks again for this DIY!
Just wanted to say thanks for this DIY... really was an easy job with the exception of the one long (top) bolt which was really stuck on there good, and I couldn't get a decent angle (my only cheater bar was a 24" which was too long with a standard hex head socket) but aside from that, it was a super easy swap out.
FWIW, I have a 2004 MT and bought my starter from Autozone.com In order to get the correct starter, I entered my car as an '08 MT which then spec'd out the 2kW 13 tooth starter for $99. Sure enough, when I pulled the starter, it was the original one from '04.
The sound this new one makes is sooooooooooo much nicer. So thanks again for this DIY!
FWIW, I have a 2004 MT and bought my starter from Autozone.com In order to get the correct starter, I entered my car as an '08 MT which then spec'd out the 2kW 13 tooth starter for $99. Sure enough, when I pulled the starter, it was the original one from '04.
The sound this new one makes is sooooooooooo much nicer. So thanks again for this DIY!
How many miles on your '04?
I'm at 52k, and I've been pondering the upgrade as a kind of preventive maintenance deal to hopefully avoid getting stranded somewhere.
2009 2011 Mazda RX 8 1 3L M T N3R3 18 400 Mitsubishi OE Starter M1TA0271 | eBay
N3R3 starter is where it's at. Click the link and purchase. I have it, it's AMAZING. I also have a brand new NAPA Legend Premium AGM battery. Awesomesauce
Travis
N3R3 starter is where it's at. Click the link and purchase. I have it, it's AMAZING. I also have a brand new NAPA Legend Premium AGM battery. Awesomesauce
Travis
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Joined: Feb 2016
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Thanks for the video...
Thank you to the poster of the video about the starter before, with a batter and with an upgraded starter.
I just bought an RX-8 and noticed that the starter requires that you hold it for a while to get it to turn over.
I have a 2004, with a 6 speed transmission.
After seeing that video, it was confirmation of what I already thought, which is that I need to replace my starter.
I would very much like to do so as soon as possible, and thought about purchasing a new one, but did not know if anyone has any suggestions on whether that is a bad idea or not. I saw some posts that indicated that, while they beefed up the starters, they have reverted back to the weaker ones.
If I do opt for a new one, does anyone have any suggestions?
Otherwise, I will check out the site that was posted as a gateway to junk yards nationally and see what I can find on there.
I just bought an RX-8 and noticed that the starter requires that you hold it for a while to get it to turn over.
I have a 2004, with a 6 speed transmission.
After seeing that video, it was confirmation of what I already thought, which is that I need to replace my starter.
I would very much like to do so as soon as possible, and thought about purchasing a new one, but did not know if anyone has any suggestions on whether that is a bad idea or not. I saw some posts that indicated that, while they beefed up the starters, they have reverted back to the weaker ones.
If I do opt for a new one, does anyone have any suggestions?
Otherwise, I will check out the site that was posted as a gateway to junk yards nationally and see what I can find on there.
Last edited by amcnally; Feb 25, 2016 at 07:19 PM.
the other yellow meat
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 19
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Yeah, they are. I looked underneath and I was like, WTF. Is this the upgraded one they are talking about? Only after reading some more I found out that the AT and MT are different. Question, inside what I am assuming is the trany case is empty and bone dry. Isn't it supposed to be filled with you know, tranny fluid?
the other yellow meat
Joined: Apr 2011
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Just installed Duralast Import/Starter (19473) | AutoZone.com in my '04. 1st start after installing had a bit of a misfire, but after that, she ran just fine. Couldn't be happier, thanks for the instructions on how to do it. I busted my head open trying to remove that first big bolt, but meh. Car is running smooth and I couldn't be happier.
However, at some point while doing it, my drivers side window controls stopped working =( however, that's a problem for another day.
However, at some point while doing it, my drivers side window controls stopped working =( however, that's a problem for another day.
the other yellow meat
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 19
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