After testdriving and poking my nose around the bay of an 8 today, I'm curious to know how the engine bay accessability is for spark plugs, fuel filter, etc.

Compared to my 3rd gen, it looks like I should be able to get to pretty much everything, but at the same time I couldn't see well enough to tell where the plugs are located - all I could find were the ends coming from the distributor. Do you have to gain access from below? Could be mistaken, but it looks like the engine sits lower/further back than in my RX7.

How about the fuel filter? PITA on the 3rd gen...any better with the 8?

So what's the word on doing regular maintenance yourself? Easy, nightmare, or somewhere in between?

<for the record, I'd say I have moderate mechanical skills/knowledge>

Thanks!

 

I'd say you're being generous. Can you post a photo of the RX-8's distributor please?

Seriously, though, yes the motor is further back and lower than the RX-7's - this has been touted in some of the marketing campaigns. Lower CG and PMI result (and warmer cabin temps, but doesn't bother me). Oil changes are a snap, and I do believe someone around here said you change the plugs from underneath.

 

Well, I don't know if you mean I'm being generous about the ends of the plug wires or my knowledge...considering I was looking at an engine bay I'd never seen before for all of two minutes.

Hehe...just realized you're talking about the fact there is no distributor. God, I've been driving my Escort for too long...I'm starting to forget my rotary tech

Anyway, the what? Ignition coil? That's all I could see.

<embarassed I had to look at the RX7 tech manual to remember...>

Anyway, thanks for the feedback/smack to the head

 

Looks easier to get to the plugs if you remove the road wheel and go in from the driver's side.

Although I haven't changed my plugs just yet!