Now that we got our first snow, I was able to test out my new Michelin Pilot Alpine PA2 tires with the ASA JS1 rims. They carved through the snow unbelievably! Thanks to all of you who recommeded tirerack. Just wondering if you guys liked the rims? Also, I got the idea from Greg here, what do you guys think of the silver painted rear grille, and the front and rear rotary accents? I can tell you that I saved about $160 and I can't tell the difference.

 

Tell me about the silver painted rear grille--did you do that by hand?

 

Yep. That took me almost an hour but I think that it was well worth it. It really enhances the appearence of the rear. I bought some Plast-Kote Scratch Color touch up paint (GM 3859) and a couple small art brushes and went to town. The level which removes excess paint may come in handy although with a bit of care, I managed not to have to use it. You'll notice that the lines are already on the grille but it's all black. So all that you need to do is paint these black prodruding lines. I guess the biggest difference between my job and George's is that I didn't paint the grille inside the rotary accent, I think it looks more realistic that way.

Here's his thread for comparison:

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.ph...ted+rear+grill

 

Man, that looks pretty good. Nice to see the RX in the snow some. I have not gone that far to do that so the car sits in the garage mostly. I think the year is coming when its going to get MS rated tires and wheels just for the winter driving. In CO they put down mag chloride melting stuff on the streets. It makes a big mess on the windshield and all over the undercarriage. One has to wait till the snow is gone before spraying water underneath to get the crap off of there. Then we have to contend with the gravel they throw on the roads for traction. Those two ingredients takes a toll on any car or truck so for now my RX stays in the garage waiting for a dry day.

 

I think the wheels look great. Some of the best looking I've seen on an RX-8. The front and rear rotary accents also look very good. Were those done with paint or are they appliques?

On the painted rear grill, I'm glad you're happy with it. I don't really care for it but you do have a great looking car.

 

The rotary accents were done in paint too. I'm happy to hear that you can't see the difference!

 

What? No front license plate? You suck! I just put my permanent plates on today, and Virginia requires both. I was thinking how the front plate really detracts from the looks, and wish I didn't have to use it.

Mutter grumble jealousy mutter grumble jealousy mutter grumble jealousy ...

 

Leave it off. I drove a Miata for 4 years in MD and paid a $40 fine for no front plate once during that time. Or you could move to PA.

 

I got my ASA KA3 rims w/blizzak lm-22's. When I put them on the car one was flat (bad sensor). Then a week later one was leaking at the rim/valve. It's not fun without a spare but at least the pump works. I think it's a problem when it gets really cold. Maybe the metal of the valve sleeve shrinks allowing air to escape. So far tire rack hasn't called back with a solution.
I do like the paint job on the rear grill. Nice work!

 

The wheels look great. Nice choice.
You did a nice job on the rear valence as well. I think keeping it black de-emphasizes the vertical thickness of the rear bumper, though.

 

I like those rims!