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 put in the motor to protect it for long shipping time.

 

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

 

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.