what is the normal idle feel in the 8? should i be feeling a bit of engine vibration at 850rpm idle through the seat or brake pedal? my girlfiend likes it but I don't so help me out

i feel nothing of the sort at 1100 rpm it just feels smooth

is it a pipe dream to chase the smooth idle?

 

Have you looked at your engine mounts?

 

Heh, imagine that.

Assuming the everything else is in good order, ignition system and such motor mounts are a good bet.

 

Only three things it's likely to be:
Engine Mounts
Misfiring (so coils/wires/plugs)
or
Pilot bearing
https://www.rx8club.com/rx-8-discuss...-216932/page2/

Does it stop when you push the clutch in?

It it's only during idle it could be the trailing plugs misfiring. Because they are responsible for idle.

 

My ignition has been completely replaced 1000km ago (except for battery)
also got rid of the CAT
there are no stored misfires

haven't looked at engine mounts yet - will tonight

My input shaft bearing makes a noise when I release the clutch in neutral. I think my clutch bearing is ok.

 

I replaced both motor mounts on my 6 speed auto this weekend with OEM mounts because idle speed had become annoyingly rough, even though I'd also changed to the BHR ignition system, including new plugs and wires.

The reason I mention this is I noticed no deterioration of the old motor mounts. From the topside view they appeared intact and pushing on the underside of the mounts felt the same for old and new as if there had been no loss of fluid.

So, I am glad I replaced the motor mounts because at idle the car seems as smooth as new. I think the automatic transmission is a factor for me though, because previous rotary Mazdas I've owned had manual transmissions and were as smooth as glass at idle speed while this RX-8 isn't quite that smooth.

My RX-8 just turned 56,000 miles or about 90,000 kilometers.

 

All of the above, and ive been looking at the Ingalls Engineering torque damper. Might help, if you find your motor mounts are fine.