Here's some pointers I posted from my first RX8 oil change that may help, regarding eliminating the mess, getting the filter off, and getting more dirty oil out (5+qts instead of 3.x).

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-tech-garage-22/first-oil-change-observations-21910/

I had my first oil change done at a dealer because of what I read on this forum (1000 mi.). When I commented to the factory rep on how dirty the oil looked he told me it was because of the grease :eek: :confused: put in the motor to protect it for long shipping time.

Reason #743 to avoid taking your beloved '8 to a dealer.

Dopey Dealer Service
 

I had my oil changed at the dealer and thought I was overcharged for 5 quarts of oil because I read the manual and knew it takes 3.7, when I checked the oil 1500 miles later it was still above the full mark. So I did't get overcharged for the oil, I just got overcharged for less than professional service. I'm going to do all the work I can myself. I have found in many situations it is hard to get good service. Anyway the overfilled oil didn't seem to hurt anything.