New PCM Flash 3/14/08

[praxis1301]

According to Rosenthal Mazda's site: http://www.finishlineperformance.com/store/pages.php?pageid=11

There is a new PCM Flash put out 3/14/08.
2004-2008 RX-8 - MAZDA SPECIAL PROGRAM (MSP16) - ENGINE LACK OF POWER - PCM REFLASH

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINS
2004-2008 RX-8 vehicles, produced from April 10, 2003 through November 9, 2007
VIN Range: JM1 FE17** 40100053 - 80215462

Service bulletin link:
http://www.finishlineperformance.com/pdf/rx8/bulletin/01-013-08-1925.pdf

Here is what one of our local members had to say about it:
"Drove 30 miles. The drivability is improved. especially at low rpm, even in 6th gear. Like it has more torque response. The lag is gone. took it up to 7k rpm and it does so faster and smoothly. That lag barrier is gone. It has more spit now. Gas mileage is unchanged. Just runs better"


I'm having it done next week, although i don't notice anything wrong with mine personally... but figure i'll do it anyways.

[fikren]

According to Rosenthal Mazda's site: http://www.finishlineperformance.com/store/pages.php?pageid=11

There is a new PCM Flash put out 3/14/08.
2004-2008 RX-8 - MAZDA SPECIAL PROGRAM (MSP16) - ENGINE LACK OF POWER - PCM REFLASH

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINS
2004-2008 RX-8 vehicles, produced from April 10, 2003 through November 9, 2007
VIN Range: JM1 FE17** 40100053 - 80215462

Service bulletin link:
http://www.finishlineperformance.com/pdf/rx8/bulletin/01-013-08-1925.pdf

Here is what one of our local members had to say about it:
"Drove 30 miles. The drivability is improved. especially at low rpm, even in 6th gear. Like it has more torque response. The lag is gone. took it up to 7k rpm and it does so faster and smoothly. That lag barrier is gone. It has more spit now. Gas mileage is unchanged. Just runs better"


I'm having it done next week, although i don't notice anything wrong with mine personally... but figure i'll do it anyways.

I'm in line to have this done also. Had the dealership service (oil change) my car thrusday and asked about the flash and they said they had not recieved the software for it as of yet but he would put me down for it so when they do get it they will give me a call. From my understanding of the flash it is basically uping the OMP to inject more oil which in some cases could raise compression there for making the car seem to not be lacking in power anymore. I am curious if I will notice much of a difference on a 3000 mile engine or not.

[Herblenny]

There is a mileage limit to this flash. 80K is the limit... Otherwise, its 80-100 for the reflash.. Kind of BS if you ask me:)

I'm getting this done thru trussville Mazda this coming week.

I'll give you guys my 2 cents

[fikren]

There is a mileage limit to this flash. 80K is the limit... Otherwise, its 80-100 for the reflash.. Kind of BS if you ask me:)

I'm getting this done thru trussville Mazda this coming week.

I'll give you guys my 2 cents
That is BS. In my opinion flashes should be treated like recalls where anyone who owns an 8 regardless of year or number of miles gets it done at no cost.

[WE3RX7]

I havent even taken mine to the dealership yet since I got it back in Feb.

I work right next to Rosenthal, so before I go to the gap, I'll probably drop it off and have them update the PCM. I want to send it to RB to get their flash, but wont be able to before we go.

Do any of the flashes make the cooling fans kick on earlier? I'm not sure my car has ever been flashed - I do run the premix now though and just added a k&n filter and I've noticed a much better response and less lag - pulls much better after 8K too...

[I8U]

The only flash that makes the fans kick in earlier is the RB flash. And normally, they flash the PCM whenever it goes it for normal service, that is if there is a new flash out that hasn't been installed on your car.

[Herblenny]

Dang, I didn't know RB did ECU flashes.. Any more info?? Maybe someone could start a new thread about them?

By the way, we need dedicated RX8 tech mod.. Anyone:)

[fikren]

Dang, I didn't know RB did ECU flashes.. Any more info?? Maybe someone could start a new thread about them?

By the way, we need dedicated RX8 tech mod.. Anyone:)
RB has always done them. I think you pull your ECU, mail it off to them, they flash it and them mail it back. Not positive on the price though.

[fikren]

Heres the price and RB's writeup on it.

"
Racing Beat
RX-8 Power Control Module (PCM) Flash Service*

Price $295.00
Download an Order Form (http://racingbeat.com/PDF/PCM%20Ordering.pdf) (PDF) - Online ordering not available for this service.

Flash service is currently available ONLY for United States & Canadian-spec 2004-08 RX-8 models - Manual Transmission equipped.

Important Update (9/06): Mazda USA has issued an emissions related recall for RX-8’s that were produced up to June 1, 2006. (It is our understanding that cars in dealer’s inventories from June 1, 2006 through August 2006 were updated at the dealership.) This recall involves a reflash of the PCM and replacement of the spark plugs. In California, and other selected states, you are REQUIRED to have this emission recall performed prior to renewal of your registration. If you are considering having your PCM reflashed by Racing Beat, FIRST have your unit updated by Mazda. This process will 1) allow you to renew your registrations, and 2) update the system records with Mazda.

After Mazda services your car, Racing Beat can reflash your PCM. Our reflash programs are based on the most current versions offered by Mazda, and you can be assured that your performance upgrade will be based upon the most current program that is being offered for your specific model year. If you have already had your PCM reflashed by Racing Beat, contact us regarding a complimentary reflash of your unit after you undertake the emissions recall. If you have any questions regarding this update, please contact us and we will be glad to answer your questions.

PCM Reflash Service

After many months of extensive research and development utilizing an engine dyno, an ECU simulation test bench, and on-road testing, Racing Beat offers an ECU program flash service for selected RX-8 applications. The Racing Beat flash is intended for use on a basically “stock” engine with only minor peripheral changes (exhaust muffler, intake air box, etc.). This flash is not intended for highly modified engines (ported, supercharged or turbocharged). It also assumes that all systems are operating as Mazda intended (no “check engine” light). The Racing Beat flash will not “fix” any problem that already exists in your vehicle. If there is any other problem with the engine (or the PCM, for that matter), your performance results will be different from ours. .

For complete DETAILS AND SPECIFICATIONS (http://racingbeat.com/PCM.htm) of the flash service, select this link.

Flash Process and Procedure
This flash service is performed on YOUR PCM unit. Each RX-8 PCM unit has been programmed for each specific chassis and is intended to communicate with the security “immobilization” system. For this reason we do not offer a PCM “trade-in” service, we MUST flash the PCM unit for your car. (The immobilization information is retained during the Racing Beat flash and is not overwritten.)

Once Racing Beat receives your PCM unit, we open the metal casing and attach a small electrical connector to the main circuit board that allows our computer equipment to communicate with the PCM. After the unit is flashed, the metal enclosure is sealed and the unit is returned.

If a Mazda dealer flashes the PCM the Racing Beat flash will NOT be retained. When leaving your car with a Mazda dealer, if there is any possibility that the dealer might have reason to flash the PCM, inform the dealer that you are satisfied with the current flash. If the dealer were to flash your PCM (thereby replacing the Racing Beat programming on it), we would flash your PCM for 50% of the current flash price. (Depending on availability of service and programming.) Your dealer will not be aware of the Racing Beat flash - except indirectly through the fan “on” temps, higher red line, or the extra power. There are no visible external signs on the PCM unit that it has been flashed.

To download the PCM Removal Instructions and Order Form (http://racingbeat.com/PDF/PCM%20Ordering.pdf) (PDF), select this link.

Racing Beat’s Limited 30-Day Warranty
If you are not satisfied with your flash, return your PCM within 30 days from date of your invoice and Racing Beat will flash your unit with a stock Mazda program.

*Important Notes: This modification is not authorized by Mazda and may impact a factory warranty. This flash is NOT considered emissions legal and is not CARB compliant and is not legal for highway use in California. "

[WE3RX7]

Yep. Its my plan to go w/ RB. I know there are other options available via the EFI-Dude and others..

RB is always trustworthy in my book and I'm not looking for massive numbers in HP. My goal is to net over 200whp and thats it, for now.

My biggest desire is to get those fans kicking on earlier. I know mazsport has that device to do it, but no offense, I dont want it to look "rigged". I'd rather it be as close to factory as possible and RB accomplishes that nicely...

[Herblenny]

Good info Fikren!!!

Do any of you know if Anyone posted the maps from RX8 ECU?? I would love to see what kind of timing they run:) (I just read on the RB site that, "There was virtually no room for improvement in the timing maps. We have tried advancing and retarding the timing with no consistent improvement."

[Herblenny]

Another interesting is the knock sensor..

The knock sensor is very sensitive, and can interfere with engine operation in some cases. While developing the Racing Beat flash, we disconnected the Knock Sensor mechanically (unbolted, wrapped in soft material and laid on top of the engine) but not electrically (if disconnected, the PCM will fault.) We found that, if we didn't do this, power was slightly affected - but not consistently.

I wondering if I could use this knock sensor on an FD.....

[Herblenny]

I just got the flash done this morning...

It feels slightly different. Slight better pick up from the low speed (via butt dyno).

They tech at Trussville was super nice! He gave me a chart showing whats going on with the engine. I'll try to scan what he gave me and post it here. There is a slight mis fire which he says it could be spark wires or coil. I'm going to replace the wires and see.

[85rx-7gsl-se]

I will have to let a friend of mine in town know about this. He has a 04 w/45k miles and said it felt laggy in the power department, this might help a bit :)

[praxis1301]

Pettit Racing also offers a flash as part of their FI system...
http://www.pettitracing.com/rx8/index_performance.htm

it's a bit more expensive at $1,199 "Management ECU Recalibration tuning" only

Stage II 275 WHP & 185 lb/ft $6,694 tuned

Stage II CS 300 WHP & 195lb/ft $7,144 tuned

[fikren]

I just got the flash done this morning...

It feels slightly different. Slight better pick up from the low speed (via butt dyno).

They tech at Trussville was super nice! He gave me a chart showing whats going on with the engine. I'll try to scan what he gave me and post it here. There is a slight mis fire which he says it could be spark wires or coil. I'm going to replace the wires and see.
Might look into this Phil if you wanted to spend the money, seems people have been satisfied with it.
http://www.mazsport.net/store/index.php?l=product_detail&p=140

[Herblenny]

Dang! Thats bit too much..

I was thinking about putting HKS Twinpower on the 8.. I have an extra one for the Blk FD and thought about installing it..

Has anyone done this??

[fikren]

Dang! Thats bit too much..

I was thinking about putting HKS Twinpower on the 8.. I have an extra one for the Blk FD and thought about installing it..

Has anyone done this??
You should be able to use the HKS ignition without any problems at all, however most of the problems with the rx8 are with the coils which is why mazspeed made the upgraded coil ignition system.

[I8U]

Thumbs down for Mazsport!!! They are way overpriced on everything they "make" and sell.

[fikren]

Thumbs down for Mazsport!!! They are way overpriced on everything they "make" and sell.
good to know, I've never delt with them personally just had heard people talk about the coil setup they do.

[khronus79]

You can also use GM's Ls1 and Ls2 coils or MSD's 8247, though this are not direct plug in the work needed to make them fit seems fairly simple.

[WE3RX7]

Thought I'd follow up on this.

I took my 8 to Rosenthal (finishlineperformance) the day before DGRR08 and had them do this flash. I was already running premix so I wasn't concerned, just thought I'd get it on the latest version.

I netted 24.6MPG on the drive home to VA which is the best the car ever got. Not saying the flash did that, but it MAYBE played a factor.

Also, I spoke to RB yesterday as I'm getting their flash this month and wanted to be sure the recent mazda flash would not interfere. They reassured me that it wouldn't. They said they dont even touch those same areas that Mazda's flash does. Also, they get the latest flashes from Japan before the general public does, so they build off the most recent versions. Must be nice to be "in" with mazda :)

[WE3RX7]

BTW - I should have my 8 dyno'd end of May before the flash and after, I'll be sure to post results.