I can't find confirmation--will the SII 4.77 differential unit swap directly into an SI RX8, or are other parts needed to make it work? Some sources say the SII power plant frame is also needed.

And, do all the suspension arms really need to be removed in order to get enough play to pull the axles out of the diff (per the manual)? If no, did you simply remove a couple so the spindles can move around, or...? Thank you for any help you can provide.

 

Fairly confident it's a direct swap

Yes, in order to get the axles clear of the diff the arms need to come loose and allow the outer hubs to rotate/hinge out far enough

 

Dunno about that one.

yes, you have to remove it all. ask me how i know

 

Not all, at least the upper two and maybe the forward lower one