I asked, should I LS Swap My RX-8? I did, here is the result!

[@dallastrost687]

Very nice build! I love the RX8 look. Never bought one due to the lack of reliability. My old RX7 was a blast to drive... I would love to do this type of build... bet it is fun to drive.

[@FindingSeconds]

It’s a blast :D

[@CHRISKASSMUKEN]

In my research I hve found out, there are several popular engine swaps enthusiasts choose, replacing the rotary engine (13B-MSP Renesis) with conventional piston engines for better reliability, more torque, and often more horsepower. Below are some common engine swap options for the Mazda RX-8: 1. LS V8 Engine Swap (Chevrolet) - Engines: LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LS7, LSX (Various displacements) - Power Potential: 350-700+ HP - Why It's Popular: The LS engine family is one of the most common swaps for the RX-8 due to its compact size, availability, reliability, and massive aftermarket support. It provides a significant power boost and torque improvement over the rotary engine. 2. 2JZ-GTE (Toyota Supra Engine) - Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 - Power Potential: 300-1000+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The 2JZ engine is known for its incredible strength and ability to handle high horsepower builds. This engine can produce massive amounts of power, and the aftermarket support is extensive, making it a strong choice for an RX-8 swap. 3. K20/K24 (Honda) - Engines: K20A, K20Z, K24A (from Honda Civic Type R, Acura TSX, etc.) - Power Potential: 200-600+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The K-series engines are highly tunable, reliable, and can rev high like the rotary while offering much more torque. They are also lighter than the rotary, improving handling in the RX-8. 4. SR20DET (Nissan) - Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 - Power Potential: 250-500+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The SR20DET is a popular turbocharged four-cylinder engine known for its reliability and tunability. It’s smaller and lighter than some other options, making it a good fit for an RX-8. 5. RB26DETT (Nissan Skyline GT-R Engine) - Engine: 2.6L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 - Power Potential: 300-600+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The RB26 is a legendary engine from the Nissan GT-R line, known for high-revving capability and strong performance potential. It’s a rarer swap but offers great power with potential for more. 6. 1UZ-FE / 3UZ-FE (Toyota V8) - Engine: 4.0L/4.3L DOHC V8 - Power Potential: 250-500 HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The 1UZ-FE is a strong and reliable V8 from Toyota’s luxury line (used in cars like the Lexus LS400). It provides smooth power delivery, good reliability, and plenty of aftermarket support for turbocharging or supercharging. 7. BMW S54 (BMW M3 Engine) - Engine: 3.2L Inline-6 (from E46 M3) - Power Potential: 330-600+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The S54 is known for its high-revving nature, making it a natural fit for drivers who love the rotary's high-RPM characteristics. It’s also a robust engine with lots of aftermarket potential. 8. EJ25 (Subaru WRX/STI Engine) - Engine: 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 - Power Potential: 300-500+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The EJ25 engine, particularly from the WRX STI, offers a unique driving experience due to its turbocharged boxer configuration. It’s lighter than most other swaps and can be tuned for strong performance. 9. 1JZ-GTE (Toyota) - Engine: 2.5L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 - Power Potential: 280-600+ HP (with mods) - Why It's Popular: The 1JZ-GTE is a smaller and slightly more affordable cousin to the 2JZ, still offering plenty of tuning potential while being a bit more compact, making it easier to fit in the RX-8. 10. Ford Coyote V8 - Engine: 5.0L V8 (from Ford Mustang) - Power Potential: 400-800+ HP - Why It's Popular: The Ford Coyote is a modern V8 that produces excellent power right out of the box. It’s reliable, has a high rev range, and offers plenty of tuning potential for even more power. Considerations for an Engine Swap: - Mounting and Fabrication: Different engine mounts, transmission adapters, and custom driveshafts may be required for non-rotary engines. - Transmission Compatibility: You'll need to ensure the transmission fits the new engine or swap in a new transmission. - ECU and Wiring: A new engine control unit (ECU) or a custom wiring harness may be necessary. - Cooling and Fuel Systems: Higher horsepower engines may require upgraded cooling and fuel delivery systems. - Weight Distribution: Larger or heavier engines like V8s may affect the handling and balance of the RX-8. Swapping a different engine into the RX-8 can completely transform the car’s performance, but it often requires substantial work and expertise. Depending on the goals (track, street, or show), one of these engine swaps could make the RX-8 faster, more reliable, or unique.

[@FindingSeconds]

That’s a good summary.

[@iMrp1]

Someone did a j37 v6 from honda, was amazing.

[@CHRISKASSMUKEN]

I like your modification, man you good at mofifying.

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks!

[@markf.4467]

Just purchased a 2005 and am searching for the right LS engine and trans, can’t wait to get it back on the road 😁

[@FindingSeconds]

Let me know how you get on!

[@koawang0609]

Hi Adam, well sorted video and really helped me understanding a lot of the swap process. I see you talk about running into some bumpsteer using this kit on miata, does the same happen with RX8? I assume you are using the modified NC powersteering rack that comes with the V8R kit. Did you corner balance your car and what's the weight&balance like?

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks! It is a fun project! I did have a little bump steer. Some of it was actually due to bound up control arm bushings that were tightened when drooped. I did use the NC rack that came with the V8R kit. More details can be found in my other videos if it helps. Are you on the path to doing your own swap?

[@audirx8]

Looks like a nice install. I was debating on ls swapping my rx8 But ended up k swapping with turbo To keep the handling dynamics closer to stock since the k series sits way back in the firewall. I do love a cammed LS rumble though

[@FindingSeconds]

Do you have any videos of your car? Would love to see the difference :) Had some experience with a Honda engine in a Miata back in the day. So much fun :D

[@bruce_son]

ever consider the lfx swap? a lot lighter and makes a good 300whp

[@kwbalance108]

Subbed! Going to get an RX8 as a track car…definitely not using the Renesis. Thinking either LS, MZR DISI, or K swap…this is helping me decide!

[@FindingSeconds]

The RX-8 is a fun car on track. You should have a blast whichever way you go :)

[@FindingSeconds]

Where did you end up? :)

[@caszzxs4104]

Awesome thank you so much for the content! There’s not enough out there! Thanks again!

[@FindingSeconds]

You are welcome. Working on the next video that goes into more detail :)

[@robertsixto6320]

Nice work. One minor detail that I just love, retaining the Greddy mufflers. Just nice to see the car retain some JDM flavor despite the LS. I love rotary engines, I've owned one for years, but an LS in this car feels ok to me. It was such a compromised version of the rotary.

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks!

[@tylerkappler2479]

I just picked up a 2004 RX8 recently and I’m actually going to be using the 5.3L vortec motor for the swap. I am curious what you are using for engine management - did you get the Mazda and GM ECU’s to talk to each other or are you using a standalone ECU? I am thinking a standalone would work best and since i’ll be getting a custom wiring harness to clean up wires (not running AC or Radio) i figure standalone may be the easiest route to get the stock gauge cluster working? Any input would be greatly appreciated as the wiring situation is what i’m most concerned with

[@FindingSeconds]

The car no longer has the Mazda ECU. GM Crate engine ECU. Gauges function via the RX8 Cluster Commander (OpenHoonage.com). All of the rest of the wiring is there meaning everything else works :)

[@tylerkappler2479]

@@FindingSeconds thanks for the reply. So you’re using rx8 harness for all interior functions and then using the gm enginer harness, and you have all of that being controlled by the GM ECU? Correct? Just read about the cluster commander on the site you listed. So is that a kit that is sold there on the site? I didnt see an option for purchase

[@FindingSeconds]

Yup that’s it. Just remove the ECU but leave the main fuse box and everything else.

[@TheReclaimerRx7]

I wanted to buy an ebay turbo kit and turbo the renesis on the cheap just to see how it would be, its either that or a 13b rew or a sr20

[@FindingSeconds]

There are plenty of turbo cars out there. Definitely would be easier and probably cheaper than swapping! Heat might be a challenge.

[@randolph50]

Thanks for the great info. I bought a non-running '07 RX8 and a full installation kit (like LS1RX8 kit). Now I am looking for an engine. The prices have gone crazy. 3 or 4K for an LS out of a car. I will have to buy a truck engine and modify the intake, etc. My question: how does it handle? I know you said "amazing" but with an extra 200 lb in front over the Renesis, I would expect unhappy consequences. I realize this post is 2 years old but maybe you are still replying. 🙂

[@FindingSeconds]

Yeah it is a shame that the prices have gone nuts :( It still has the soul of the RX8 but is a little heavier. I haven’t taken this one on the track yet (my 04 RX8 saw lots of track time). With the upgraded brakes I wouldn’t have any concern. I would have to drive a stock one back to back but I would guess it’s 90-95% as nimble :)

[@FindingSeconds]

Careful with a truck motor. That will likely be an iron block and you will feel more of an imbalance as you won’t be able to get close to the 50/50 weight distribution.

[@randolph50]

I found a 2004 GTO LS1 today, 150K miles on it and he sent me a video of it running. Accessories, ECU, wiring but no trans. $2600. But the prices I am finding for a real LS1 are $3-4 K. I'm picking it up tomorrow. it's 3.5 hours away but I'm just glad to find one. @@FindingSeconds

[@randolph50]

Yes. I know to look at the 8th digit of the VIN to find the engine type and then look up if it is aluminum block. But now, I have a GTO motor. :-) or tomorrow I will have.@@FindingSeconds

[@FindingSeconds]

That’s awesome! Would you be able to take some pictures and send them to me? I always love seeing other people stories progress :) Contact details should be in the contact section on the channel.

[@MrJustinWheeler]

Appreciate your info. Picking up my RX8 this weekend. Hope to have similar results that you did. Sub’d.

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks! How did your pick up go?

[@MrJustinWheeler]

@@FindingSeconds it went good. Now I have 3 RX-8’s. 😅

[@FindingSeconds]

It’s an addiction for sure. I topped out at 2. What years?

[@MrJustinWheeler]

@@FindingSeconds I've got a 2004 silver 6 speed, 2005 black auto, and a 2006 red 6 speed (no drive train). There is another one for sale I am going to look at buying on Wednesday. Three weeks ago I had zero RX-8's. Lol

[@goranyau1122]

any other engine besides the LS, which can be fitted to the original manual transmission ?

[@FindingSeconds]

Great question. Looks like there are Honda K-Series swap kits available. As far as I can tell bolt up to the normal transmission. No idea on what that might take but if you do it let me know!

[@Schoen-Off]

What’s up Brother! Love the channel. I have some questions. I did a turn key swap on my 2004 Rx8, gen 3 4.8 . how did you run your OEM rx8 gauges ?

[@FindingSeconds]

Howls it going! Thank you for the appreciation. RX8 Cluster commander worked for me. I cover some of that in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXqzaqRnrqdpnrc

[@victorthecarguy3126]

Nice work. So you think the exhaust heat might be getting the diff hot?

[@FindingSeconds]

No, it was likely over filled :)

[@mogulme6190]

How hard would it be to have A/c?

[@FindingSeconds]

I have A/C but just haven’t finished the wiring. The wiring itself is the pain.

[@duveedu826]

That rx8 radiator got the job done?

[@FindingSeconds]

Yup! It’s been running for years now with no issues. Drove it 9 hours/550 miles in the peak of summer this year in one go (with gas stops).

[@duveedu826]

Niceee I'm using one for my ls swapped ls400. Running a turbo but hopefully everything runs just as smooth. Thanks for the fast reply!

[@FindingSeconds]

Coolant wise you should be OK. With the turbo, fitting a good intercooler and oil coolers will be critical. I ended up with dual oil coolers on mine. Boosted applications will have to balance all 3!

[@Boomsz123]

How much does something like this cost all in approximately? I’m thinking about doing this?

[@FindingSeconds]

Hey! Great question. Depends on 3 things. Full DIY, DIY kit and then how much you spend on the engine, transmission and differential. In total you could do it for a few thousand but more details below. The full DIY vs DIY kit is easily a $6k-$8k difference. Engine/Trans/Diff you are looking at likely at least $5K - even for junker parts (unless you go iron block). The T56 can be harder to find now. If you are talking new, crate stock motors are just around $10K. T56 new is $3.5k-$5k ish with bell housing. IRS diff is $300 for eBay and up to $2K refurbished (not sure if there are newer compatible diffs you could buy new). You really want an aluminum block and the kits save you so much time. A realistic range with today’s prices would be $10K-$25K.

[@Boomsz123]

@@FindingSeconds 10-15k after spending 2-5k for a decent shell isn’t bad… I’m thinking about doing this. I’d do all the work myself so I’d definitely save on labor would just take a few months to finish.

[@FindingSeconds]

Ah yes I forgot the shell itself :) I was lucky on mine. It was less than $1k but prices have gone up since the pandemic. Are there particular years of cars you are looking at?

[@Boomsz123]

@@FindingSeconds found a 04 decent condition for 2,500… problem is that the rotary is still going pretty strong so if I decide to get it I might keep it stock til it blows up lol

[@FindingSeconds]

The rotary is worth experiencing for sure! I wouldn’t have swapped mine if the engine hadn’t died twice!

[@kaizousha5531]

Very good video!! what dif are you running?

[@FindingSeconds]

Ford Cobra 8.8 from a 2003. 31 Spline. Swapped the internals for a Ford Performance Torsen T2

[@tedzehnder961]

Nice install.

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks! Are you building one?

[@bingoberra18]

Turbo K-swap vs. LS swap?

[@FindingSeconds]

Driftworks did a Turbo K swap and then V8 swapped it. Not sure why but their videos might be able to explain.

[@Speedsecrets1]

I could be convinced to come test your RX8 when you’re ready… hint, hint, nudge, nudge…

[@FindingSeconds]

Absolutely :)

[@bleeneo101]

If anyone ever asks if you're a GOD you say, YES!

[@FindingSeconds]

I wouldn’t quite go that far. It’s fun for sure though

[@adrian15419]

Fire bro

[@FindingSeconds]

It’s hot right? :)

[@bigno2010]

What an awesome build, very cool stuff man. What area are you from? I live in St louis, any chance ill see this thing riding around? Any track events?

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks! KC area :) I head to Gateway every year and next year I might bring the RX-8. I have a Gateway video planned in the next month or so :)

[@tpnxl]

Where do you service the car? Or do you just do all the maintenance yourself?

[@FindingSeconds]

I tend to do it all myself. The only thing I don’t do right now is tyres… that might change one day :)

[@azazelakira12]

Did you do all the swap yourself? How long it took?

[@FindingSeconds]

Months!! The wiring probably took the longest. I did most of the work myself. I’ve done another swap and the second time is always easier. Have you done anything similar before?

[@azazelakira12]

@@FindingSeconds no, I am looking to do this on my RX8, but I want to keep the intrument cluster intact, and looks to be pretty hard, more because I am not a good electritian or electronic guy

[@danielkruger4305]

Did you consider doing a LFX swap?

[@FindingSeconds]

Not at the time. I am way more familiar with the LS platform and there are kits out there to give you a head start. I’m also a huge fan of the V8 rumble and song! The power to displacement of the LFX is attractive though :)

[@AlbertoGomezSE3P]

Nice build 🔥👌🏽

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks 💯

[@BitcoinTo150K]

Keep up the videos please

[@FindingSeconds]

I’ve got a summary step by step coming up :)

[@FindingSeconds]

Latest one is up Jon!

[@finflamflamharrison9265]

Did the gas mileage change when you swapped the LS I see that r8s stock have 12 in city and LS sit around 20. Did you notice any effect?

[@FindingSeconds]

All depends on how I drive it :) On a cruise the RPMs are so low that it can get a better MPG. However get too heavy footed and it will be worse than the rotary!

[@bombardierrecreationalprod1023]

You do realize that the car with the rotary is a front mid engine design ! The Handling is no where near as good when you swap a v8 into the car ! Anyway in a straight line it must rip !!

[@FindingSeconds]

The handling is different for sure but not as bad as you might think. The T56, 8.8 diff and aluminum block on the engine help offset the irons of the rotary :) Overall heavier though.

[@matthewkoenig5133]

That as sweet

[@FindingSeconds]

Thanks

[@austindoud273]

The only way to fix an rx8

[@FindingSeconds]

For sure to me it's the most fun way! :)

[@jaimegrant784]

But it doesn't rev to nearly 9,000 rpm. And it sounds no where near as good. A good rotary expert could build you an REW that is every bit as reliable as any LS with more power and less weight and ohhh that wonderful rotary sound.

[@Katsaguro]

It.... it won't be as reliable as an LS. They can make it reliable... but in a "If you keep up with maintenance and premix it'll be as reliable as a normal engine" kind of reliable.

[@Y2Crouch]

Mate, a rotary won't sound as good as an LS with a good exhaust system, and it definitely will never be as reliable as an LS.

[@jaimegrant784]

@@Y2Crouch there isn't an LS to date that sounds anywhere close to as good as a rotary. The flat plane crank version in the new Z06 comes closest, but still not even close. A well cared for rotary is every bit as reliable as an LS. That is why they have won pretty much every endurance race there is. Ask someone who races them. You will have to rebuild an LS every race season, while a rotary will last several race seasons.

[@Katsaguro]

@@jaimegrant784 I daily a rotary, and I promise you a well maintained rotary is not as reliable as a well maintained LS. I'm not talking about possible aftermarket pieces and parts, just stock form.

[@Y2Crouch]

@@jaimegrant784 Any LS with a gthaus exhaust will sound better than any rotary with any exhaust, it's just how it is, that's the magic of a V8. Hell, if you don't have the money, just cut the muffler out or straight pipe it and it'll sound great too. Sorry bud, you got caught up in that dorito echochamber/circlejerk. "A well cared for rotary" you can count those on the fingers of one hand, lol. "they have won pretty much every endurance race there is" bruh

[@teabaggin]

Warning, danger to manifold.

[@FindingSeconds]

Hey Terrence, thanks for watching. What’s the danger?

[@teabaggin]

@@FindingSeconds I was referring to the clip in the original fnf movie where Brian had a laptop on the other seat .. warning danger to manifold

[@FindingSeconds]

@@teabaggin :) Love it!

[@bobtremblay3168]

The disrespect for the rotary engine even if its an Nice video i hate it no offense

[@FindingSeconds]

I understand. I am hoping I address some of that in the video. I love the rotary engine for sure. If Mazda released an RX-9 I would buy one tomorrow. Amazing platform and very advanced.

[@markflint2629]

You have built a shopping cart for handling

[@FindingSeconds]

Curious on what you mean by that?

[@markflint2629]

200,000 kilometres on my original engine you ate doung something wrong

[@FindingSeconds]

That’s fantastic! What year is your car?