Skyactiv in Autocross

[stmike1]

Hi,

I have a Skyactiv 3 and would like to possibly autocross it, as I have over the past 7 years with other cars I've owned. I'm casual and usually run only a couple events per year and keep the cars stock. Can I expect any durability issues from the Skyactiv 2L? I'm impressed with the motor for a lot of reasons but am most impressed w/ it's torque, but it's a new and odd motor so I don't want to set myself for catastrophic failure.

Thanks!

 

[JC79G35]

I will be entering my Skyactiv 3 also in Autocross this year.

I guess the best way to think of it is the Skyactiv is basically a diesel motor (direct injection), so it shouldn't be too bad. Although, investing in an oil catch (which I plan to do) couldn't hurt.

 

[color0]

The engine itself will be fine, it's unlikely the ECU will allow it to do anything harmful to itself.

On the other hand, the transmission is the fragile component, so no launching the car. Normal spirited driving hasn't killed mine yet, an AutoX should not either.

 

[JC79G35]

^are you referring to the AT or MT or both?

 

[color0]

^are you referring to the AT or MT or both?

Gah, you're right. I assumed AT for some reason. The MT is launchable to an extent, but Mazda themselves admit the gears are narrower and handle less load than older transmissions. The AT, please don't try lol.

 

[JC79G35]

Good to know! I have an AT, so this is a good thing to keep in mind.

Forgive my ignorance, but what would be considered a "launch" as I heard different intepretations (i.e. holding the brake and accelerator down, getting the revs up and releasing the brake or just slamming the throttle from the line)

 

[stmike1]

Thanks. I avoid the aggressive launch in general.

Speaking of the MT (which I have), it's generally super smooth but if I shift *slowly* between 1 and 2 it is rough. I was doing this during engine break in and I noticed it. If I just sweep it in normally, it's all good. I'm a worry wart, but while were on the transmission subject I thought I'd mention it.

PS. The motor's great torque will be great for digging out of corners.