vcarvajal89

Hey everyone back with more Questions I have a 2004 Rx8 with a 6speed. 21k miles

So Mazda approved an engine replacement under the condition that I replace the Subframe due to it being bent offsetting the engine slightly. (Car was in a previous wreck everything else frame wise is fine)

What I would like to know is if its possible to swap the Subframe without pulling the engine, can anyone point me to a write up or directions on how this is done if possible??? Second question is are there any differences in the Subframe between an auto and standard???

Can post in the For Sale section but I have a K&N Typhoon Intake for sale, have to go stock for replacement and don't really care for the intake, Heat shield is included...

And last but not least does anyone want to sell me a used set of BHR Coils

dannobre

iTrader: (3)

The subframe can be removed with the engine in the car. ....and as far as i know the manual and auto have the same subframe

If they are replcing the engine the Mazda way they will be doing it out the bottom. .. so the subframe comes with it. Good time to do it then ;-)

vcarvajal89

Unfortunately Mazda won't replace till the Subframe is replaced... so I have to do it myself.

Does anyone know of a write up or something that may help??? I am sure I can figure it out but I would rather have some expedience based knowledge to prevent any mishaps or setbacks.

dannobre

iTrader: (3)

I would talk to the service manager and point out the duplication in labor and try to get them to do it at the time of the motor swap

Otherwise it is straight forward.

vcarvajal89

I tried dealership techs are all flat rate depending on job, warranty work is less then normal rates so there is no way to combine and calculate what it would cost to include the subframe. My only option was to purchase a subframe from them and have them do it at their normal rate which was something outrageous. I picked up a good subframe for $60 and can do the work myself. Just wanted to tips or tricks while doing it if anyone had any...

dannobre

iTrader: (3)

If you can do it on a hoist it is a lot easier.....basically you have to remove the upper strut mounting bolts...undo the wiring for the steering rack and the wheel sensors and assorted other stuff....you then hold the motor up with a stand or jack...remove the motor mount bolts...and the main support brace bolts....remove the 4 large nuts that hold on the subframe and lower it...remove the rack and the suspension arms from the old subframe....and replace on the new one..
You have other things to deal with as well...like the lower radiator supports and the sway bar..you can figure that out as you go. It really isn't that bad a job...as long as you have a way to support the engine and tranny....and a way to lower the subframe
The good thing is that the PPF will keep the motor and tranny all intact...so you don't have to deal with any of that

vcarvajal89

I know this is late in the game but I'm finally jumping into this project, I am pretty sure I got this handled no problem, but my question is should a jack and piece of wood be enough to support the engine AND transmission or should there be something else supporting the tranny

dannobre

iTrader: (3)

You are ok supporting it with one stand....but you need to put it on the tranny likely because otherwise it will get in the way :-)