PASTAlovin1823

So basically let me start by saying that I am a complete noob whenever It comes to rotary motors. I have spent many hours on this site and all the noob threads have been extremely helpful through this process, I wish I would of spent a little more time researching before I bought my rx8. Two months ago I stumbled across a 2004 M/T rx8 with 180xxx miles on it for $1500, I now get that that was a stupid move because of the high miles, but at the time I assumed it was a steal and a easy fix. The guy said the car was his brothers and it sat up for 6 months because of a DUI, we pull started it and I drove it long enough to make sure it didn't overheat and before I made it to the trailer it died out, the car wouldn't idle. Then came the headache.

​​​​​​After the drive back home I started with the basics I found on this site. Going into this I didn't have much extra time because of work but its recently slowed enough so I could actually get to work. I changed coils/wires/plugs and I have assumed I flooded it whenever it stalled. I have tryd the deflood process to the T for two days straight and haven't had luck, so I'm almost positive I have very bad compression. Basically I'm looking for a band aid until I can rebuild the car. I've fallen in love with my friends rx8 so I'm now determined to rebuild it whenever I can. I haven't had a compression test done yet but it is coming soon. I've searched but I can't find exactly what I'm looking for. How can I get more compression for the time being, something to get me going. I've heard of using ATF but I still don't understand how entirely that method works or how practical it is, can anyone shed some light on that or any other quick fix methods for me.

Thanks

recneps

Sorry but you are out of luck until you can get a rebuilt engine (If it is bad compression). If you understand how to engine works you will understand that the bad compression comes from air leaking from chamber to chamber (usually a result of bad apex seals) though other seals may also fail causing low compression. You should test the compression before making any progression on the vehicle, as that is most likely the problem. If you suspect you flooded the engine you can always unplug fuel pump fuse, and remove all spark plugs. Gas should come out if it is flooded. Likely if you do not have the resources to rebuild the engine yourself, it is not worth it to rebuild it and the car is only worth scrap value as a rebuild usually costs thousands of dollars.
Sorry for the bad news but good luck.

RX8Soldier

iTrader: (24)

As mentioned, get the compression test with a rotary specific compression tester. Report the numbers here and we can go from there.

If you're still wanting a band aid solution, make sure all other components are in healthy order (plugs, coils, starter, etc)

PASTAlovin1823

So stupid question but do I need to go to the Mazda dealership to get the compression test done or is this something the local parts stores would carry. And as for starter health, it is the first gen should I just assume replace it?

RX8Soldier

iTrader: (24)

Most regular shops don't carry rotary compression testers. But you can call around. Chances are that you'll need to go to the dealer.
As for the starter, a newer model from 2nd gen (don't have the part #'s off the top of my head) is your best option. However, it's spending money that could be for nothing...

PASTAlovin1823

Right that's kinda my delima. I really would like to be able to drive it to the dealership apposed to paying for it to be towed there and back. I push started the car yesterday night and I drive it for about 10 miles but I still couldn't get it to idle or start with just cranking after I parked it. I noticed I had old ATF on my air filter and I think that is how the previous owner was driving the car, do you know much about that method and if i could trust it to go to the dealership. Putting tranny fluid in my motor just seems wrong and I don't want to further damage the car. I have the tools at my work to do a rebuild but I really feel like because I drove it it still has a little life, I'm trying to stay hopeful I'd like to have it ready so I can service my daily driver before my warranty goes up on it.