I came across three engines, all that didn't run, 2 were auto and one was manual. Was going to rebuild the manual and use it in my car but after tearing it down found that it lost an apex seal on the front rotor, which as I'm sure all of you know toasted the rotor, housing and both irons. Now I've done some searching and can't find the answer to this question, are the center irons on both manual and auto the same? I know the end irons are different because of the 5th and 6th ports but just looking quickly at the centers, the seem to be the same. Thanks.

 

they are different part numbers but they may work anyways, if someone hasnt already done this then your luck will be if they post about it... if you decide to be a pioneer in this, then kinda report back for others. you may find an issue, and come up with a work around which would be useful to the community.

the auto 6 port engines use the same middle(and front!) is what i conclude from this":
RX-8 Internal Engine Parts

only the rear has both a 6 port manual and a 6 port auto... which tell us...

 

Yeah I looked on mazdatrix to see if the numbers were the same and I saw they weren't as well. But I couldn't tell any difference when looking at them in person. I'll have to go over them with a fine tooth comb and check it out. If I do use it I'll def report back. Any info that is helpful is good info right?

 

port sizes are different between 4port autos and 6port manuals but it will work, you could port the auto middle iron to the manual size.

 

The 6 port housings are the same in manual and auto, the e shaft is different. The 4 port housings will be completely different.

 

Shaft is the same EXCEPT the MT shaft came with pilot bearing installed

 

The weight is different, and I thought it was hardened.

But if he is getting the assembly balanced that wont matter.

 

it's the same buddy ...

the only different is the pilot bearing.

the hardened part u talk about is the stationary gear.