I know there are probably not too many rebuilds on the RX8 motor but I am looking at getting a very cheap RX8 and wanted to know if people here would thing an engine rebuild is easier or more difficult than the on the older RX7 motors. The reason I as is I rebuilt a 12a about 8 years ago (my first and only engine build) and that motor is still running to this day. Now the car I am considering has a blown motor and I am considering the challenge.

 

Ive rebuilt 12a's back in the 70's and from what I can tell rebuilding the 8 should be very similar except for all the tubes wires and EPA and chip related stuff. Somewhere there is a video floating around that shows you the entire process. TIP: build yourself an engine stand and get a pair of calipers and learn how to use them. you need to check tolerances on the old stuff to make sure they're in specs before you reuse them.

 

The challenge you will face is to your wallet!It is much easier to do major damage to the rotor,rotor housing and the side housings.I got really lucky and only had to replace the rear rotor,rear rotor housing,3 apex seals,6 corner seals,4 oil O-rings and a gasket set.Cost about $1200.
If it had been necessary to change the centre housing and rear housing add another $800.

 

How much does it cost to buy a crated re-man unit, just for comparison? I think I have heard about $3k, but can't confirm it.

 

The motor itself is about the same. The Renesis is very slightly harder than a 12a due to the dual apex seal springs - as in VERY SLIGHTLY - it is just a little bit fiddly to get both springs in. This is somewhat offset because the side seals are easier since they come in selective sizes, and you don't have to grind them to length.

Removing and reinstalling the motor is MUCH more difficult on the RX-8 and pretty much requires access to a lift.

I don't know about remans from other sources or if they even exist. A Mazda factory shortblock is well over $5K. It takes me longer to remove and reinstall a the engine in an RX-8 than it does to rebuild it and I have done several.

Steven