Hey guys , having starter problems and keep reading on forums about changing to the rx8 2.0 Kw starter . Would it be easier to buy one already upgraded and fit for the fd or should I just buy the rx8 starter and swap the internals out myself ?

 

the issue isn't the starter, it is the starter circuit and how not so robust it is. adding a booster relay solves most starter issues on the RX7. me as well as Banzai make starter booster relay kits if you are getting the "click click vroom" symptoms.

if you are getting slow cranking symptoms, it is likely a ground or power wire from your battery that is the issue, or simply a weak battery.

if you are getting long cranks with sputtering and spitting, you may just need a new engine or fuel injectors.

 

When starting it cranks fine , not slow and definitely no sputtering , car has been manual swapped with 83,000 miles . When the car was an automatic it started up every time with no issue at all . However with a used oem starter (my second one now) still the same issue . I have ordered the booster relay and it should be here this week . I’ll probably check the ground to the starter whenever I have free time . Also battery has also been changed recently .

 

are the starters not different between the auto and manual?

 

Yes the starters are different between manual and automatics and do not bolt up the same . I have tried an eBay starter at first when the swap was done , that one wasn’t working at all . Then I installed a used oem starter was working for a little then gave out and started doing the click click start . When the car was a automatic it would fire up every time , now with the manual starters I’m having trouble keeping it starting consistently.

 

what symptoms are you getting? the audible "click" when turning the key?

 

yes I get click click start every now and then but sometimes it starts right up.

 

then the external relay should solve your starting issues.

 

thanks for the responses! It should arrive later this week and I’ll update you on how it goes . Another question is if I upgrade the starter to the 2.0 Kw starter can I keep the relay booster or should I remove it ?

 

keep the booster, the issue isn't the output of the starter but the voltage drop from a failing ignition switch. it's a common problem on virtually all models of rotary cars.

IF you would like a little extra oomph you can swap your automatic starter motor to the manual transmission starter case for your own high output starter, assuming you still have it. no need to waste money on an upgrade.