Picked up an 05 GT last weekend with a Mazda reman engine with an alleged 24k miles on the reman engine. I replaced a bunch of parts on it, oil and filter, air filter, crank position sensor, MAF, coils, plugs, air pump, and injector driver pack. When I drained the oil, I found that there was over 6 quarts of oil in the pan *shakes head*. Started it up last night and noticed as the engine warmed up, I could hear knocking from what sounded like the rear passenger area of the engine. Sounded like lifter noise at first and then rod knock as the engine warmed up. We all know that's not possible. I was thinking rotor bearing or stationary gear bearing failure. No loss in oil pressure according to the gauge or dummy light. Compression checked out at fair as 120psi on the front rotor and 90psi on the rear rotor. Looking for some insight on the issue. Here is an enclosed video of the issue:

see post 3 for video. Finally got it to work

 

Link did not work, see below

 

ok, lets try this:

 

For it's worth, and it's worth very little, my Rx-8 briefly overheated because of belt failure on the freeway. After replacing the belt, I also noticed a very similar but not as loud knocking sound coming from the engine bay. My engine blew shortly after.

The knocking sound may or may not be related to my failure.

 

Put your finger on the SSV actuator arm and see if the sound goes away, it sounds like that which is fairly common. Search for youtube for examples.

 

I tried the SSV rod test first off. The rod was tight with no play and moving it did not change the sound or frequency of the engine knock. I did find that this engine is the 4th engine that Mazda has put in this car......so I called Mazda USA and spoke with a rep and advised them of the poor hot starting, stalling, and engine noise. The car is currently at the dealer awaiting authorization to replace the engine under warranty. Fingers crossed that they replace it.

 

4 engines!? Holy poop!

 

Either abusive and neglectful owners or a faulty fuel system causing a lean condition. Either way, after a new engine goes in the car, I think a new fuel pump and filter is in order as well as a thorough line cleaning. When the engine comes out, either a the dealer or here, I'm going to hot tank the intake manifolds and the port sleeves and linkage to ensure no intake issues. Whatever it takes to keep this engine running perfectly for many years to come.