Ranking Popular Mazda Rx8 mods

[@Drivenbymadness]

How would you rank the mods in the video? 🤔

[@Flyingdutchy33]

I wouldn't change the ranking generally, but I have a few comments: Exhaust manifold: RX8's don't really do exhaust scavenging. Therefore, this mod will barely give any ponies. It looks (and sounds) cool though. Cold air intake: RX8's have a very good stock one, no need to even touch this unless you don't like the looks? Starter motor: I still have a stock one, and mine starts immediately. You can barely even turn the key before it starts purring. I think this mod may mask other (potentially serious) issues with your RX8. It's a band-aid solution for this reason imo. Turbo: Just don't. Get a 13B engine instead if you're willing to go this far. Have peace with the fact that RX8 engines are actually a downgrade from the 13B which still has the peripheral ports, was actually built sturdier, and has the turbo stock. My top mods in no particular order (you should have all of these I think) Sohn adapter OR oil block off plug, de-cat, better radiator, coilovers, shortshifter with a heavy ass knob, sensible street brake pads (like Mu B spec or similar), upgraded coils (!!!!), engine damper _While the stock shocks are actually surprisingly good (best I've ever seen on any stock car) the ride height is just silly, replace immediately for this reason_ Personally, this is where I'd stop performance wise if you don't want to go too crazy. With that said, if I was to get serious with my RX8 (and this may very well happen at some point in the future), I would get that 13B engine, get rid of the electronic steering and fix the brake pedal. But this is quite involving and requires beaucoup bakshis (money). btw, glad to see you back on yt broski!

[@assumingctrl]

Agree with everything on this list, except for Sohn Adapter. Costs a lot for what it offers. You don't need to premix - But you're still using 2-Stroke oil in the new oil bottle anyways 2) It allows you to use fully synthetic oil - but there's no documented proof that is extends the life of your engine on it's own. I think for the money you could instead look at getting upgraded coils from RRP or an aluminium radiator. Tuning software such as Versatuner should also be on this list. Can use it to trigger your primary and secondary fans sooner, inject more oil through your OMP(particularly good for S1 RX8s) and even put in cold rev limits etc. Great video!

[@sneedlewoods829]

exhaust is also s tier. what it cost you vs what it gives you is priceless. no rust and so much better sound. also it can be helpful for cooling the engine

[@Drivenbymadness]

Also true :)

[@Flyingdutchy33]

You won't see any power gains, but consider this: The catalytic converter will inevitably clog at some point. When this happens, it's "Goodbye engine". De-catting is a reliability mod more than anything. Oh, and pops and bangs. Because why not.

[@sneedlewoods829]

@@Flyingdutchy33 but it's illegal and that's why the Sohn adapter is s tier

[@Flyingdutchy33]

@@sneedlewoods829 Times certainly have changed... To each their own, but in my day, that's something you would've never heard somebody saying...

[@leaf4224]

Bro I’ve been watching you since like 2019.. you are the king of the rx8 scene ngl

[@richarddalkranian3261]

I did the reversing camera, Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the mini disc connector, starter upgrade, and a few others. Due to watching your channel. Thank you, glad you're back!

[@Drivenbymadness]

Are you enjoying the mods?

[@richarddalkranian3261]

@@Drivenbymadness Very much! Before I saw your video on the Bluetooth adapter I was using the plug-in FM type. I'm a retired sound engineer and the audio in those systems suck. Plus being able to use the steering wheel and radio controls is handy. The backup camera looks stock and I'm using the full size rear view mirror for the screen. I had the engine rebuilt last year at 131,000 miles I went to the series 2 starter.

[@richarddalkranian3261]

I am probably your oldest subscriber 🤔

[@Drivenbymadness]

​@@richarddalkranian3261 Very happy to hear that man! Enjoy it as much as you can :) Thanks! I'm very glad to see OG subscribers this far in my journey 🥰

[@richarddalkranian3261]

@@Drivenbymadness Lol, I meant I am an old guy. My first rotary was an RX2 that I bought new. I've been following your channel for at least the last 8 years. When I had the engine rebuilt, I had the cat removed, not required in Miami. You are correct, my friends now say my car smells like a truck stop. 😂

[@askannav2094]

The very first mod i made was to upgrade the series 1 starter to the 14 tooth Series 2 starter. It literally transformed the car & gave me confidence in the Renesis motor, whenever i had to restart it. Rate this as the 1st mod on any Series 1 RX8.

[@raziismail8044]

Hi everybody. I track my rx8 here in sepang int circuit, malaysia. Is hot with high humidity here. I find below is a must for good timing around the track... Mazmart water pump n low temp termostat Good header n decat with 3in piping Early fan trigger 4.7 final drive 2way lsd 17in light weight wheels with good tyres Pmu 4pot bbk Air fuel ratio controller for tuning Fastest rx8 around sepang so far M making 195hp, 186nm with stock engine on a dynojet Cheers

[@Matt-ob3ek]

And a harness how could anyone say that is not a good mod?

[@rotaryenforcer]

How is decat C tier.. wtf bro... its the absolute best mod you can do accompanied by an ECU tune...

[@F31YX]

Bruh has probably nerver ran premix because this cat would be clogged so decat and premix are probably the best reliabilty mod

[@redlinenissan372]

I can agree with what you said about getting older and not being into certain mods, when I was in my early 20’s I wanted my car to be loud and riced out and I’m approaching my 30’s and now want a bit more volume out of my car and more “common sense” modifications 😂 one thing I would note in your list is a proper catback exhaust which is a must on these rx8’s

[@chefjamesmacinnis]

As I'm approaching my 40s I want a loud slammed car and a comfortable family car.

[@animeotherstuff1189]

Not going to lie, I agree with the back up camera. For those saying "skill issues" don't realized how helpful a camera is while backing out from parking. The RX8 has relatively big blind spots! I installed one and I never realized how much help it is. Any help is much appreciated so yes, I agree. Back up camera, S teir 🙌🏼

[@castro392]

good video man! I actually need this. I always thought a new steering wheel wouldnt be good anyways without the harness, its just unsafe tbh.

[@Drivenbymadness]

Yup, airbag is there for a reason. If you don't need it and want a sport steering wheel, then you need shoulder straps and hans device on helmet to have the same safety.

[@supermoop]

I upgraded the starter and added the fan control kit. Now the AC blows much colder because of the fan kit, and the car starts up much faster either hot or cold.

[@leoncarlier]

1. Battery - Optima red or Yellow top 2. Upgraded starter motor 3. Upgraded tyres, the best quality you can afford 4. Upgraded brake discs (slotted and cross-drilled), upgraded pads, braided lines and performance fluid. 5. Performance clutch 6. Upgraded shock absorbers 7. Upgraded exhaust, cold-air and an ECU tune These are my essentials list to really enjoy your Rx8.

[@phillipliems7963]

De-cat is an Incredible reliability mod for the rotary imo

[@shanvlogs3262]

Hehe he is back thanks bro 👍👍👍

[@LordCakeskull]

Honestly, the sohn adapter (or clean oil adapter from RRP) should be on every Rx8 still driving. Uprated battery & starter are next on my list. Then ignition coils such as D585 or RRP coils.

[@trackstarflash]

Don't forget changing over to a High Flow Catalytic converter, in the exhaust. Keeping a Cat, sure, But ensuring it's High Flow will also give you more confidence that your Pre-mix won't foul it sooner causing blocks. Otherwise, great list! Oh Also, Series 1 RX8s, if you're getting it tuned up, you can also have the Tuner increase the amount of oil the Metering pump uses so your rotors are better lubricated.

[@forsakencookie9127]

Doesn't the catalytic converter choke the shit out of the RX-8? I thought it would be a good idea to remove it.

[@Drivenbymadness]

It benefits the car, but there are also downsides for the owner. Check out my video on mods i regret: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJDGm3iKrtyWh9k&t

[@sled_neckx9972]

I think the sohn adapter is a neat idea! Given I run 2 strokes in my snowmobiles a lot, it is really easy to check and refill the oil! Also you get fresh oil lubricating the rotors. I already check oil every time I fill up with gas. I feel a sohn adapter would be easy and reliable. Quick question: if you run a sohn adapter, can you run synthetic oil in the "crankcase" (the eccentric shaft and such)? If I ever get an RX-8, sohn adapter and quality gauges will be my first two mods!

[@slimtim5575]

I run a sohn adapter, fill it with 2 stroke oil, and then use 10w40 for every oil change. Since the two reservoirs aren't interacting with each other, you'll get more life out of your engine going fully synthetic. :)

[@assumingctrl]

@@slimtim5575 I'm with you up to the last part. There's no evidence that it prolongs engine life.

[@Redshift42]

Good list, although now that you say it, in 21 years of ownership, I don't think my battery has ever come out of the car.

[@jacob6325]

Bennett built Ls style ignition coils should be S tier. My ignition coils started going bad and after installing the Ls style coils the car started up sm faster and ran sm better

[@rugsbaby]

Do you have a video on what to do (refreshing parts ect ) when you first get one? Looking at getting one this year for my 28th

[@middy5284]

bros should I do a low temperature thermostat? I bought the mishimoto thermostat but i see people online say for daily use/road use, it is inefficient or harmful to have a low temp thermostat. I live in florida so its extremely hot all the time. Is it worth doing the thermostat?

[@Casper9]

Bucket/aftermarket seats should be higher, I think stock seats have pretty bad side support so you cant stay in place when turning, especially leather ones feel slippery. Don't have aftermarket ones myself but hopefully could get Spirit R seats someday.

[@nate13b]

i have schroth racing harnesses in my rx8 (actually quality dot approved harnesses) because i track my car and want to keep the stock seats. They are safe and keep you in place without needed new seats. I also just tuck them under the seat and use the regular seat belt for the street. The mounts connect under the rear seat, therefore you don’t need a harness bar.

[@kuvisit]

You had it on the list, but didn't talk about it - the LS ignition coil swap

[@chefjamesmacinnis]

Your D tier modes are more about smiles per miles. But I speak about that kind of stuff from the prospective of I have 2 cars and would never do half the stuff to my Linclon MKS

[@themaster718]

Yoooo sir u really did release a video of the mods nice work sirrr I really appreciate that u replied to my last comment Never stop man

[@philippos6290]

Hello dear friend from Cyprus.i want to congratulate you for your videos about the RX8.There quite nice and i think the most of us cant wait to see more from you.I also want to say that i have a jdm mazda RX8 2003 model and i have a petal box for a few years now and i have to say that is much more way quicker but unfortunately the car becomes undrivable as i cannot adjust my foot with petal.that is my opinion about petal box Thank you and greetings from Cyprus

[@leightonbrown9261]

An Rx-8 mod list without mention of coils? Hmmmm.... The single most important mod in my opinion!

[@Drivenbymadness]

They were in A tear, they are written in the video tv screen but i forgot to mention them, somehow missed that line in my script when recording.

[@zhangshaozhou523]

CAI can be an S tier if paired with hood ventilation. CAI drastically reduce the pressure behind the radiator to increase air flow.

[@TheAzimvs]

Regarding the water temperature and the oil temperature and the music and the diagnostics and anything regarding sensors. I have installed Chinese Android head unit and with the help of OBD2 wirelessly I can monitor my car and troubleshoot on the same time I have music videos KZbin and etc

[@skyy_xx]

Great video, most of S-tier I agree and have/plan to have. But bucket seats for me are also S tier, I've got S1 RX8 but recently I've been sitting in R3 Recaro buckets seats and it's perfect, much more stable to sit in, I'll be replacing leather on mine to white so also I'd modify its shape to be more bucket-ish. Tho you probably meant pure racing bucket seats, and I agree with this one. Also I'm curious why did you put decat in C tier and airpump delete in B tier? Don't you do both or none of them? At leas if I'd have cat I wouldn't see reason delete air pump

[@alluvz2fish]

You forgot to mention lighter rims...

[@re4per597]

I don’t know if I would put bucket seat and harnesses in low tiers. It increases safety and ease when drifting.

[@re4per597]

Bonnet struts in S tier is also crazy. Just put the prop up…

[@neo_o8057]

the like is for the sohn adapter, sadly there is no cheaper kit less than 300€ plus shipping to spain my country. most of them come from usa and are 150 to 200€ in shipping + the luck to don't be dismissed by stupid customs agent. (i shipped a stupid oem wing for my cr-z 300+300 and get rejected cos they are usselles here in spain). good luck with shipping people

[@Glennboh95]

What happened to you mate 😂 didn't realise a racing Harness with bucket seats would be a waste considering they are lighter so faster. Harness for safety. Decat, literally gives your car more power.. the battery quick release is pointless though.. its two 10mm nuts. Not exactly time consuming 😅

[@raymond3232]

Where's the rebuild mod?? I just rebuilt mine and did a streetport 10/10 mod.

[@jacob6325]

Justice for the decat:/

[@harrod19]

Hahaha you know I'm gonna hate on the reversing camera 😂 use your mirrors like a man 😜

[@yaboismeernoff1717]

I have a question, i want to buy the aem cold air intake, but i dont have the airpump, is it still possible since the hoses are not there anymore and the intake has the mounting points?

[@Drivenbymadness]

Hi, the air pump has nothing to do with the intake, if you want to install cold air intake, all you need is to take out the air box and replace it with the intake, the air pump does not come even near it. I made a video on how to install it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYCmYqiLh82JhbM

[@jegguty]

My rx8 never used 98octane, always 95 and premix, full of power and life. But my gearbox and clutch died

[@kennethkeintz4585]

Where can I get a new engine?

[@Drivenbymadness]

Depends where you're from. Go to my global rotary shops and try asking a mechanic in your state: www.drivenbymadness.eu/global-rotary-repair-shops

[@aimbot0x01]

s tier overrated. Sohn adapter: I never see one in Japan including track RX-8s; Oil & water gauges: you can read water temp from ODBII; Bonnet struts: makes no difference; Reverse camera: skill issue

[@Drivenbymadness]

Reading water temp from OBD or reading oil and water temp + oil pressure from gauges is not the same. Reversing cameras are a safety feature that should not be debated based on ego. Safety comes before looking or feeling cool.

[@aimbot0x01]

@@Drivenbymadness good point👍! Actually i did the gauges for looking cool 😂