Over the years, I've done a lot of reading on this site to glean information about how to repair and maintain my RX-8. Nowhere did I ever read how susceptible the engine is to failure due to overheating.

I know, I know. It's even in the manual. Duh.

But I was used to a reciprocating engine that ran with virtually no coolant (temp gauge pegged) for at least a few minutes with no obvious damage, except maybe a blown radiator hose.

I had had a slow coolant leak for a couple months that, due to schedule constraints, was much easier to ignore and just repeatedly refill (this was during the summer months) the coolant tank with water, and keep kicking that can down the road rather than dealing with it. Again, I know, I am completely responsible for what follows.

Well one day, I guess I ran low. I was on the interstate between exits with nowhere to stop. Temp gauge was reading about halfway between the middle and the far right. I kept an eye on it, rolled the windows down and turned on the heat. I figured the gauge would have been all the way to the right if it were a critical situation. Eventually power faded until I couldn't maintain 50 mph. I pulled over and oil was pouring from the block. Diagnosis was warped housing. So ended an era.

Silver lining, I donated the car to the American Cancer Society who managed to sell it, even with a lot of superficial body and rim damage (city living and daily parallel street parking takes its toll), for $1750, and I'll get a sweet tax break. Win win.

Anyway, this is just a PSA to remind folks that these cars should not be run hot. Not at all. Not ever. Or else you'll end up like me, in a 2008 Civic Si Coupe. (Hey, I needed something cheap that would tolerate my tendency to ignore automotive maintenance).

RIP, 2004 Nordic Green 6MT, 81k mi.

 

Yeah, the gauge doesn't move till 235F, and the engine can fail at 220F

Just within the new owners's thread (https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...t-here-202454/) there are references to that at...
The Engine Failure Story
Cooling! Cooling! Cooling!
So if I get one, what can I do to help make my engine last?

 

Very unlucky, but shame on you for persisting to drive it whilst its overheated. Mines overheated before (right round into the red), i was going 40-50mph and immediately shut it off and coasted into a layby i knew was coming up.

 

Nice move. I did something similar (Purple Heart) with my 23 year old Accord when the time came. Lots of worthwhile charities out there who take car donations.

Ken