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Hi everyone, thought I'd share my experience swapping a 2JZ-GE into my 2005 RX8.
Backstory; I had an RX8 back in 2011-2013 and absolutely loved it but had to sell the car to move into a truck for work. I then tried out a Mazdaspeed3 for a while and it had the power I was looking for but wasn't sporty enough or rwd. From there I got it in my head that I wanted a RX8 with slightly higher power than the MS3 but still reliable. Where I live in Canada, there's not much for rotary shops nearby so that's where the 2JZ idea started from. 4/500hp reliably for many miles is the goal of this build for now. I have no intentions of ever getting rid of this car/setup so maybe one day this drivetrain setup will make its way into a nice clean shinka shell. For now, I'm focusing on the running/driving aspect above all else
Car; The donor is a 2005 GT with 80 000kms that I bought partially running and driving but with low compression and a substantial oil leak when running. The car isn't in the greatest condition for its mileage so it'll most likely be wrapped and a lip kit added later on. I'm also planning to use the car on the local road course and maybe try some drift events. I'm trying to keep everything working on the car including ac as it's main use will be a highway cruiser.
Engine; The 2JZ-GE that I'll be installing in my RX8 came out of my brothers 1993 LHD Toyota Supra. He pulled it to install a JDM VVTI 2JZ-GTE so i was able to scoop it up for a wicked deal. Being the GE engine, it is naturally aspirated but I have a turbo setup in the works. I'm thinking a S2 GTX3561 or something similar down the road but the plan is to get the car running and driving n/a and then add the turbo kit and standalone as more funds come in.
Transmission; I picked up a used CD009 out of a Infinity G35 as well as the Collins Adapter 2JZ to CD009 piece. I'll be using a Serial 9 technical shifter relocation kit but there's a hold up on that kit due to the pandemic. I still need to order the actual clutch and flywheel.
Mounting; I purchased the LS1-RX8 swap kit. I'd say it's a bit pricey for what you get especially with the CAD to USD conversion. The pieces overall seem decent quality but my biggest issue has been with the vague instructions.
Wiring; Right now I'm planning to try and use the 2JZ engine harness and ecu and tie the rx8 sensors to the 2jz so the dash still works.
Wheels and suspension; Most likely go with a custom set of BC coilovers or another brand but I'll be running custom spring rates to compensate for the extra weight upfront.
Steering; I've relocated the rack with the swap kit and will be staying with the electric power steering for now. If I don't like the feel, I can always change it later
Driveline; The differential will have the LS1-RX8 brace added. Driveshaft will be a custom unit
Throttle control; I ordered a throttle pedal conversion kit to use a wrx pedal and cable. Once the engine gets a turbo and standalone, I'll go back to drive by wire.
The plan for this weekend is to get the 2JZ test fitted with the LS1-RX8 swap kit. I'm waiting on the rear sump conversion in the mail but I need to see if the 2JZ mounts that I have will line up with the swap kit.
I'll try to add some pictures below but I also made an instagram for the build @2jz_rx8build
So I got the engine in the car. I don’t have the required motor mounts so I’m trying to make the ones I have work. I believe they’re Aristo mounts and the LS1RX8 kit uses the MK4 supra or Soarer mounts.
The driver side mount bolted up but may require some finesse to get the engine exactly where I want it.
Passenger side didn’t line up in either of the 2 motor mount options on the block so this swap kit piece will now need to be moved back about an inch. This will line it up with the rear mounting position of the Aristo mounts.
Before I start modifying the mounts to their final position, I need the Serial9 shifter relocation kit to come in so I can install the trans and verify the location of the motor. The 2J made its way into the bay fairly easily.
I decided to purchase the proper motor mounts for the swap kit so I'm waiting for those to arrive. I'm still waiting on the serial9 shifter but I did get a ECUmasters emu black to run the setup to make the swap a bit easier. Having the EMU Black will also set me up for the coming turbo setup.
04-18-2020, 09:09 AM
