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Not exactly the update I wanted to give, but I would appreciate hearing from the community on the latest issue that has cropped up.
I just had the clutch replaced by a very reputable shop (Exedy OEM replacement clutch kit). They said they found numerous problems with the previous clutch install, apparently when the transmission was rebuilt by Mazda in the 90s. A lot of hardware was wrong, things not installed properly, etc. I was told they fixed all these things, they also did the clutch hydraulic cylinders, and an engine oil change. They also filled the shifter cup (it was dry), checked my trans fluid level, and replaced a shifter bushing.
During my first drive, I noticed that the shift and clutch action was a night and day improvement. Looking back, the heavy clutch and clunky shifting that I was experiencing before and just chalked up to normal FD operation, was not normal at all. So that is great.
However, there is a bit of a problem. The first time I went wide open throttle, I immediately noticed that the engine vibrated and was much more noisy than before. Honestly, my first thought was did they accidentally install solid engine mounts and modify the exhaust? Obviously not, but it is that much harsher and more noisy than before. It is not exactly a consistent vibration either, there is a spot around 3,500 rpm, then it smooths a bit, then starts vibrating again from 5k to redline.
I left the car at the shop and am waiting to hear back from them at the beginning of the week. Does anyone have any ideas about what could cause the symptoms? Any thoughts appreciated.
For anyone who is curious, the problem was that they reinstalled the PPF out of alignment. They fixed it, and it is good now. Exhaust update coming soon...
Finally got the chance to install the first REAL modification, the DO Engineering titanium catback that arrived a few weeks back. When I first started searching for a catback, I knew I wanted a high-quality unit with a small/medium single-tip muffler that hopefully wasn't too quiet, since this car with stock twins and main cat in place will be plenty muffled already. Most exhausts with the aggressive note I wanted have a giant muffler tip, which is not the look I'm going for on this relatively stock car. Eventually, I narrowed down my choices for an appropriate OEM+ type setup to the Fujitsubo RM-01A and the old-style FEED titanium unit. This DO Engineering titanium catback came up on Yahoo Japan a few weeks back, and a forum member here was kind enough to inform me that it was available after seeing my numerous annoying WTB threads. : ) This exhaust is identical the old-style FEED titanium catback (except for a slightly different tip).
(rear shields need to be reinstalled in final pic)
Out of curiosity, I weighed both exhausts and came up with the following:
Stock: ~35 lbs
DO Engineering: ~9 lbs.
Weight Savings: -26 lbs.
Install went smoothly, and I'm over the moon with it. Was giddy like a little kid seeing it in place, and finally getting to start it up. Purrs very nicely and sounds amazing while driving.
Does anyone know the easiest way to hook up a temporary boost gauge? Downpipe is next mod and I will need to monitor the boost level.
I'm thinking just run a vacuum line from the nipple on the intake manifold through the firewall. I know of the grommet in the driver's wheel well, but does anyone know of an easier hole to put it through? Again, I'm not looking to install a boost gauge with electrical wiring, MPT fittings, etc., just hook one up temporarily to make sure the downpipe + catback is safe.
Hoooooly crap. That exhaust sounds is PERFECT. I've got a goal now :-).
I don't have much to compare it to, but I agree it sounds great. Sometimes pops when letting off the throttle into second/third too, it is lovely.
Your best chance of getting your hands on this exhaust is probably to find the FEED version. Ganador also made one with the same piping and muffler, they all just had different tips. DO Eng is more rare from what I have seen, if the lack of info about it online is any indication.
Is there a significant difference between the OG FEED Sonic Ti and the current one? The current model looks to be made by whatever factory produces the Amuse exhausts as well.
Hoooooly crap. That exhaust sounds is PERFECT. I've got a goal now :-).
There are 2 Ganador Ti on YJA right now
Originally Posted by jorts17
Is there a significant difference between the OG FEED Sonic Ti and the current one? The current model looks to be made by whatever factory produces the Amuse exhausts as well.
Different muffler, the new Sonic Ti is a lot more quiet due to the larger muffler.
I don't have much to compare it to, but I agree it sounds great. Sometimes pops when letting off the throttle into second/third too, it is lovely.
Your best chance of getting your hands on this exhaust is probably to find the FEED version. Ganador also made one with the same piping and muffler, they all just had different tips. DO Eng is more rare from what I have seen, if the lack of info about it online is any indication.
Getting anything like that over here in New Zealand is a pretty tall order, I'll be making something myself for sure :-/.
04-26-22, 06:41 PM
