I have a few questions regarding engines. First off, I'm thinking about replacing my USDM 2001 ITR B18C5 with either a JDM ITR's or a Spoon engine. I don't know a whole lot about the motors other than they give higher performance than the USDM B18C5. I have the money to spend and I want the best engine available in my car, but could it be worth it to go Spoon or JDM (as far as can you make them emissions legal by adding a special chip or can you fully modify the engines yourself to make them the JDM or Spoon version)? I'm more concerned with fully finishing the JDM conversion of my car (with exception to the steering wheel being on the left :wink: ) than with how much it costs. I plan to race on the track as well as keeping it streetable for driving in town once in a while. I do not want a Prelude engine or anything else that would seriously effect the weight ratio/handling.
Does anyone know the specs of a Spoon B18C (HP, torque, RPM)? Inlinefour sells a B18C, but how different is that than the B18C5 (does Spoon sell a tuned B18C5?)? Maybe I should just take it to Inlinefour in CA (where my car is now) and get it Spooned... Money is not too much of an issue. Anyone with this knowledge would be most appreciated. Thanks!

 

SPOONED??? Who is this guy? Is your real name Brian Earl Spilner?

 

Multra: First, put down the crack pipe.

Ok, now that you've come off your mind-altering high let's review some things.

Spoon B18C SpecR = balanced B18C SpecR (JDM ITR Motor)
B18C SpecR (JDM ITR motor) = USDM B18C5 motor with higher compression pistons.

So, taking out a perfectly good B18C5 motor for either is a complete waste of money. I know you said money doesn't matter, but it's also quite possibly the most idiotic thing you could do (I'd rather turn an ITR into an airboat then do this swap).

If you want more power, then build the motor. Make the parts work together, don't just slap "good parts" together and expect everything to work in harmony. If you went with big cams you'll want to run over the stock B18C SpecR's compression anyways so the only part you'd gain would be replaced.

 

Thank you for straightening me out. I'm not familiar with Honda engines. If it really is pointless to swap out the engine I won't do it. I bought my ITR earlier this year, but haven't had time to modify it due to my job (I'm in the Navy, been out to sea on a submarine ) I just have the JDM conversion so it's all looks right now. After driving an ITR I've lost interest in muscle cars. My ITR just drives so much better, but I don't know a lot about them. As for Spoon, I've heard of them being 'the best' for Honda/Acura parts. While I never believed in 'the best,' I've noticed their parts are quite expensive, but not very cost-efficient for your average joe. So a Spoon, JDM, USDM B18C5 are essentially the same thing except for Spoon's taking apart and balancing of the components, and the JDM version just has higher compression pistons? Doesn't sound worth it to me! I've got buddies with WRX STIs and EVOs, but no one has an ITR! I'll stick to my ITR and use the extra money to modify it. Thanks for your help.

 

Bubble Head? Got some Cash just burning a hole in your dungarees?? LOL I'm just mess'n with ya. I am a Navy man myself (SF--->NI)


Well, It's not as simple as that, but it is a waste. You could put that Money in far better places than a swap. However you can do what I did. and that was to Purchase a JDM R engine and rebuild it in any fashion that you wish. THEN swap then and sell the Stock Engine to cover some of the costs. That way you minimize your down time.
But the best advice to give you now is to Just get to know your car in Stock Fashion. Drive it Enjoy it and learn from it. THEN and only then should you begin to modify it.