March 21, 2009

Transmission Overhaul

Roughly two weeks ago, shifting in general began to feel notchy and even began to grind at certain points. After changing the transmission fluid to some fresh MT-90 and still being unsuccessful, it seems it was time for a new transmission.

Liberty Mazda was up for the task and helped me out greatly, with a quick transmission swap and allowing me to also install some new goodies. I figure, if the transmission is out, why not swap the clutch and flywheel, right?

Above are pictures of the old pressure plate and transmission parts, while below are the pictures of the fresh new setup.

04-08 RX8 Transmission 6 Speed (Aisin AZ6 ) with RedLine MT-90
ACT Heavy Duty Pressure Plate with Street Performance Clutch Disc
ACT ProLite Flywheel and Counter Weight

Doesn't get any better than this. After 500 miles of breaking in the clutch, bleeding it here and there, adjusting the pedal, babying it around town, I got to finally put the pedal to the metal. This is a highly recommended power upgrade to any other RX8 owner out there. The throttle is much more responsive, almost as if the car was a S2000. Rev's quickly and pulls very nicely in 3rd gear. Infact, I would say 3rd gear pull feels like my old 2nd gear pull, making 2nd Gear much more formidable for Autocross.

This was well worth the money, and thanks to Liberty Mazda, it was done right. Again, very highly recommended and it really gives the car that more "enjoyable quick roadster" feeling. Thanks to Mike from Liberty Mazda for the excellent photos.

5 comments:

imput1234 said...

thats dope, I cant wait to get another flywheel and actually install it :)

Marc Monnar said...

Thanks. Yeah, it's definitely worth your money. Like I said, I noticed I'm actually driving my car more like it has torque.

BTW deleted your duplicate comment. :)

Bighurk said...

thats what im gonna get somewhere down the road

Marc Monnar said...

I'd get it sooner then later to be honest. It really helps bring life to the car, for a lack of a better term. I think this combo, coupled with the 4.777 Final drive would be great as well.

Unknown said...

Hi there! How was the transmission that was installed years ago? Do you still feel the same thrilling experience with the transmission until now? Glad you found a company that helped you with this. Can’t wait for my car to have a new transmission too! ->Jae Gunderson