Hey all, I've got a question about a few small modifications. If anyone has any ideas on how to accomplish these things, through a DYI or a suggested website, I'd be really happy to hear about them. I've done a few forum searches and DIY article searches, and nothing matches the questions I have.

#1. My girlfriend complains that the stock seat's metal section near the head hurts her when she lays back in the passenger seat, most likely because she's just at the wrong height for it. Is there a website that offers something cushy to place in the opening to soften the metal around the headrest, instead of requiring new seats? I'm currently using cloth seats, but hope to upgrade to leather very soon. Any suggestions?

#2. Regarding the glowing red "head unit" that has the radio and other little bits of information on it, is there a way to change the color of the display without a total replacement? I've found a large number of articles about replacing it in full, but I'm curious if anyone has heard of or knows how to change the color.

Any comments are appreciated! I'm excited about my new RX-8, and would like to get into some customization soon.

 

In response to #2 question, the answer is "yes".

Now, HOW to do that? Beyond me!

One of the forum members recently did it in blue and it looks really good, but he so far hasn't put up a DIY on the forum to share his secrets. I'm sure it was quite a bit of work.

Search a bit and you'll find the pic I'm talking about with the blue lights on the head unit. I don't have time just now to do it or I'd try to link it for you. You'll find it, or someone else will pipe up, I'm sure.

Best,

Michael

 

Nevermind the search. I found it easily enough.


Here, check this out:

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-interior-audio-electronics-24/im-so-blue-117007/

Is that what you're looking for?

Michael

 

That's sort of what I was looking for. Changing the color behind the buttons is very nice, and I'd like to change them to bright white at some point for the final steps. However, I was thinking more along the lines of the LED display panel a little higher up. It's sort of a bright red 8inches wide by 2inches display. I'd like to change that to white, but all I've found about that display is how to replace it.

I suppose in the end, I'd like to make all my lights on the inside bright white, instead of the red with purple accent scheme that comes stock, so I can contrast the Brilliant Black with Bright White lights.

And thanks for the link. The community here is so helpful.

 

get the new girlfriend mod for your passenger seat! lol jk

i dont know what you can do about the rotary symbol, but just tell her shes not supposed to be resting anyway!

 

you can buy the seat covers, they will soften it up, but it will still be there

 

I wouldn't be surprised if the member who is doing all the blue at that link I gave you has the ability to do what you are trying to do. Also, in that same thread, there's a member who offered to post some "how to's" if I'm remembering the thread accurately. Perhaps PM him and see if he has the skills to get you started, or point you in the direction of someone who can get things the way you want them.

You are most welcome for the assistance. I agree. This is a wonderful community of RX-8 owners, and the support and knowledge they bring to the table every day is one of the reasons I felt confident enough to buy an 8. (The fact that I once had an RX-7 didn't hurt either. (Candy apple red.....gorgeous. Had to give it back when our first son was in the oven...dang!

Take care and I hope you get things figured out!

Michael

 

Answer for #1

Get a new girlfriend! One that fits better with your RX-8. You have plenty to choose from.

 

this is for the s2000, but maybe you can call them and ask if it fits the rx8 or if they can make one

http://www.ricks2k.com/products/AllL....php#HeadRests

 

Perfect. Just what I needed, something along these lines. Thanks a ton.

 

Answer to #1:

If you are driving it the way it's meant to be driven....




.......she won't be able to rest!!!!!!!

 

#1 Leave a pillow in the back seat for her

#2 I think you have to replace the whole panel, cause the panel itself is red.

 

You're right about the pillow, I just may have to do that. I might get someone to sew a rx-8 logo onto a black pillowcase to match the car, so I don't have to purchase a custom leather pad for the seats.

And to the poster above the previous poster.... trust me, she hasn't fallen asleep yet.

 

try a different position

 

^^+69

 

Heh. I may have to, there's not nearly enough room in the back seat. Damn center console and bucket seats!

 

Something I've been researching for the last two weeks is a reliable Blue Tooth & iPod intigration, that's seemless and works entirely through the stereo. After hours on the phone and pestering my tech guys at the dealership, I have some ideas.

iPod - Of the 3 aftermarket options, AudioLink seems to be rated the highest among the 8ers on this site. You can install it yourself at home in an Hour or two.

Bluetooth - The AudioLink has an 1/8th inch input jack. That in mind you can pick-up a Bluetooth receiver from a company called Scosch, http://www.audio-discounters.com/ubr.html , Wire it to the lighter for the 12v (you'll loose the functionality of the lighter, more on that too) and viola`, it SHOULD work. All in theory though, I'll let you know how it goes. As for the Ashtray, It should be possible to cut out the excess portions of it, leaving just the frame and flip down lid, making a new storage unit for an iPod, or cell phone.

Just some ideas I'm look'n into.

 

Sounds really cool! Hope it comes together for you just the way you've envisioned. Make sure to start a new thread with pics once you're done. The idea will get a lot more visability that way.

Michael