1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
#1
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2x0’s Turbo CRX Re-Build Thread
It is a 1991 HF chassis rust free *so far* and appears to have factory undercoating. Overall the body and chassis is in great shape! Mileage on the chassis is unknown, but it's pretty clean and most of the suspension and brake work has been done, although it will need some more upgrades soon. Engine and turbo setup has about 7,000 miles on it.
Engine:
Here are the initial issues-
Front end clacking noise under deceleration:
Update - ended up being a broken differential.
Misfiring, not starting in cold, running rough, wouldn't rev over 3000rpm:
Update - The S300 v1 was dead. Had to replace with S300 v3 and retune.
Transmission/clutch/differential noise:
I noticed the last couple times I started it, if I release the clutch pedal in neutral, there is a lot of noise that comes from the transmission once it starts spinning. It is somewhere between a rattle and gear noise. Also when driving, especially in first and a little in second, there is some pretty major gear noise/whining under acceleration. Sounding almost like straight cut gears. However, the transmission shifts in and out of all gears reasonably well and operates like it should. Again, hoping that the fresh trans fluid will help or at least let me know if there is a major problem.
Update - The differential and tranny were both pretty shot. This noise was a combination of the diff and input bearing.
Oil leak from turbo feed or return line:
Last night I got under the car for the first time, and noticed everything is coated in fresh oil. I traced it up the oil pan on the front, and up the return line to the turbo. Although it appears to be originating from the return line, I suspect it is actually coming from somewhere on the pressure line side. It is very hard to see anything on the top side of the turbo, so this I need to dig into.
Update - The turbo was shot and needed replaced. It had been oil starved, shaft warped and blued, seals were bad.
Torn shift linkage bushing? on transmission:
Update - They didn't use the washer on the shift stabilizer rod bushing. I rebuilt the whole shifter assembly with new OEM hardware.
Turbo compressor touching radiator:
Update - Switched to half rad setup.
Here's what I have in the works so far:
- Upgrading Hondata to S300 V3, updating ECU capacitors
- Trans fluid change with Acura MTF
- Reducing boost to 12psi max until I get a feel for it
- Purchased e85 tester and "e85 only" sticker for the gas door
- Fixing oil leak on turbo feed line
Possible upgrades for the future:
- Upgrade axles
- LSD
- Boost by gear
- Considering window tint and blacking out the lights and reflectors on the car. Not sure how it would look on a white car tho might just leave the stock look.
Thanks for reading! Will update as I diagnose or fix issues, will get more pics and add any more upgrades I decide to do.
Engine:
- GSR Block
- Wiseco Pistons
- Eagle Rods
- Stage 5 RPM Ported B16 Head w/S2 valves and retainers
- GSR Cams
- Cable LS Trans
- Stock Axles
- Comp Stage 5 Sprung Clutch
- Moroso 4qt Oil Pan
- Walbro 340, 255LPH Pump
- FIC 1000cc Injectors
- 6AN Fuel Lines
- Hondata S300 V1 Tuned on e85 at 17psi
- AEM Wideband and Gauges
- Garrett T3/T04e 57 trim
- Hallman MBC
- Blox IM with 90mm TB
- MG Fab Stainless Turbo Manifold
- Tial Wastegate
- 3” Downpipe and Full 3” Exhaust w/2 Magnaflow Mufflers
- Godspeed 20" x 11" x 3" FMIC
- HKS BOV
- Fluidyne Radiator
- Dual Vented VC with Catch Can & Breather
- Unknown Lowering Springs
- KYB Struts
- Skunk 2 Front UCA’s
- Skunk 2 Rear LCA’s and Upper Camber Kit
- Unknown front brakes w/2-Piston Calipers
- Rear Disk Conversion
- Stainless Brake Hoses
- Innovative? Traction Bar
- 949 Racing 6UL Wheels, 15X7 +35
- Hankook Front, Direzza Rear Tires
- VIS CF Hood
- Battery Relocated to Rear Hatch
Here are the initial issues-
Front end clacking noise under deceleration:
Update - ended up being a broken differential.
Misfiring, not starting in cold, running rough, wouldn't rev over 3000rpm:
Update - The S300 v1 was dead. Had to replace with S300 v3 and retune.
Transmission/clutch/differential noise:
I noticed the last couple times I started it, if I release the clutch pedal in neutral, there is a lot of noise that comes from the transmission once it starts spinning. It is somewhere between a rattle and gear noise. Also when driving, especially in first and a little in second, there is some pretty major gear noise/whining under acceleration. Sounding almost like straight cut gears. However, the transmission shifts in and out of all gears reasonably well and operates like it should. Again, hoping that the fresh trans fluid will help or at least let me know if there is a major problem.
Update - The differential and tranny were both pretty shot. This noise was a combination of the diff and input bearing.
Oil leak from turbo feed or return line:
Last night I got under the car for the first time, and noticed everything is coated in fresh oil. I traced it up the oil pan on the front, and up the return line to the turbo. Although it appears to be originating from the return line, I suspect it is actually coming from somewhere on the pressure line side. It is very hard to see anything on the top side of the turbo, so this I need to dig into.
Update - The turbo was shot and needed replaced. It had been oil starved, shaft warped and blued, seals were bad.
Torn shift linkage bushing? on transmission:
Update - They didn't use the washer on the shift stabilizer rod bushing. I rebuilt the whole shifter assembly with new OEM hardware.
Turbo compressor touching radiator:
Update - Switched to half rad setup.
Here's what I have in the works so far:
- Upgrading Hondata to S300 V3, updating ECU capacitors
- Trans fluid change with Acura MTF
- Reducing boost to 12psi max until I get a feel for it
- Purchased e85 tester and "e85 only" sticker for the gas door
- Fixing oil leak on turbo feed line
Possible upgrades for the future:
- Upgrade axles
- LSD
- Boost by gear
- Considering window tint and blacking out the lights and reflectors on the car. Not sure how it would look on a white car tho might just leave the stock look.
Thanks for reading! Will update as I diagnose or fix issues, will get more pics and add any more upgrades I decide to do.
Last edited by 2x0; 07-26-2018 at 11:46 AM.
#2
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
very nice looks good. and not so many big issues. cant wait for it all to be done.
sending ecu straight to hondata ? I need to upgrade mines too once I park car this week and store it to work on it
sending ecu straight to hondata ? I need to upgrade mines too once I park car this week and store it to work on it
#3
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
It was $430 for the update package being that my V1 was toast, but I figure the one place you don't want to skimp out is engine management.
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
welcome by the way. well mine is working fine so I hope only 280 for me as page says lol and very true
this is my 91 ef im working on
this is my 91 ef im working on
#5
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
That looks awesome! Can't wait to get mine runnin good.
Looks like you had to raise the hood up for clearance? I was surprised that my hood closes fine, but then I noticed that there is only about 3" of clearance from my oil pan to the ground
Looks like you had to raise the hood up for clearance? I was surprised that my hood closes fine, but then I noticed that there is only about 3" of clearance from my oil pan to the ground
#7
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Its good to see Gunny's old crx getting some love from a new owner. I remember his build from MnHonda's, we turboed our crx's at the same time maybe 6-7 years ago. Looks like it hasnt changed at all from that time! I always wished he got a larger FMIC to fit the crx grill better, other then that the car looks very clean! Good luck with the build, hopefully you can make it to TopEnd to race it this upcoming season.
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#8
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Its good to see Gunny's old crx getting some love from a new owner. I remember his build from MnHonda's, we turboed our crx's at the same time maybe 6-7 years ago. Looks like it hasnt changed at all from that time! I always wished he got a larger FMIC to fit the crx grill better, other then that the car looks very clean! Good luck with the build, hopefully you can make it to TopEnd to race it this upcoming season.
It's weird because for all of my past projects, I've lived in different states but always had some fellow tuners to cruise around with. In MN everyone just likes their trucks and snowmobiles...
#9
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Hey there, I wondered when someone who recognized this car would turn up on the forums. Yeah I tried looking for his build thread on MnHonda's when I was considering the purchase, but it looks like that site is down now. Is there another forum where more of our regional enthusiasts get together?
It's weird because for all of my past projects, I've lived in different states but always had some fellow tuners to cruise around with. In MN everyone just likes their trucks and snowmobiles...
It's weird because for all of my past projects, I've lived in different states but always had some fellow tuners to cruise around with. In MN everyone just likes their trucks and snowmobiles...
People in MN/ND just garage their cars during the winter for the most part. Come spring you will see plenty of nice cars.
#10
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Thread Starter
Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
No news yet on mine but my ecu should be getting reworked by Hondata at this very moment. I also received my Acura MTF today ordered from K series parts. Hoping on Saturday I have the time to drain the tranny and see whats up, plug in the new ecu if I have it back yet, and fix the oil leak. If all goes well, which it seldom does, I may be out on the road next week while enjoying the 40-degree weather
#11
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Thread Starter
Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Received my ECU back today with the brand new Hondata S300 V3 installed! Took a total of two days from when I shipped it, pretty awesome! Also considering you get an entirely new S300 for much less than retail price, came with a new USB cable, some decals and everything.
Can't wait to get it hooked up this weekend
Can't wait to get it hooked up this weekend
#12
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Tonight I changed the tranny fluid. Old fluid had some fine metal glitter in it but looked pretty normal. Also may have fixed oil leak, I was able to get about 1/4 turn on one of the return flange bolts, we'll see if that fixes it.
Pics also showing the broken shift linkage bushing. I figure I'll worry about this when I start having trouble shifting...
Now I just need to plug in the ecu and upload a tune!
Pics also showing the broken shift linkage bushing. I figure I'll worry about this when I start having trouble shifting...
Now I just need to plug in the ecu and upload a tune!
#13
EFB055
Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Transmission/clutch/differential noise:
I noticed the last couple times I started it, if I release the clutch pedal in neutral, there is a lot of noise that comes from the transmission once it starts spinning. It is somewhere between a rattle and gear noise. Also when driving, especially in first and a little in second, there is some pretty major gear noise/whining under acceleration. Sounding almost like straight cut gears. However, the transmission shifts in and out of all gears reasonably well and operates like it should. Again, hoping that the fresh trans fluid will help or at least let me know if there is a major problem.
I noticed the last couple times I started it, if I release the clutch pedal in neutral, there is a lot of noise that comes from the transmission once it starts spinning. It is somewhere between a rattle and gear noise. Also when driving, especially in first and a little in second, there is some pretty major gear noise/whining under acceleration. Sounding almost like straight cut gears. However, the transmission shifts in and out of all gears reasonably well and operates like it should. Again, hoping that the fresh trans fluid will help or at least let me know if there is a major problem.
Keep in mind some aftermarket clutch types do make a similar noise to this though and it's normal.
#15
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
#16
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
badass I hope it work on an iphone too. mind sending me the info where u sent it to on a pm. I need to send mines Monday out to upgrade too
#17
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
https://www.hondata.com/downloads/s3...grade_form.pdf
Last night I was able to plug it in and upload my tune, everything was good and green light was on. Car started but did not run well due to the cold temps, so I still need to make some adjustments on the tune.
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
so I already have a boost controller and boost by gear so my option needed will be the 280 one or the 330 one for this
Reliability Upgrade – Install 8 high quality replacement capacitors to help protect and extend the life of your OBD1 ECU
Reliability Upgrade – Install 8 high quality replacement capacitors to help protect and extend the life of your OBD1 ECU
#20
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Yup. I went ahead with the reliability upgrade since my ECU is from 1994, and I really don't want to deal with any more issues in that department...
#23
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Time for a quick update where I'm at with the car.
Over the weekend I was determined to work out the tuning issues and get the car running great. However, I found that it seemed my entire fuel map was too lean by around 40%, which couldn't possibly be right.
First thing I need to double check is that my calibrations weren't corrupted by the old faulty S300 when I downloaded them. So I am going to create a new base tune, compare the maps and see if it runs better on that.
More than likely, I am thinking there is a mechanical issue with the fuel system. I am going to cover everything, replacing the filter, possibly FPR, cleaning injectors and do a pressure test. I can hear the pump chugging away so I am doubting it's the problem, but will check it out if pressure is an issue.
If all else fails and it turns out my tune is bad, then I will need a re-tune which sucks.
More to come this weekend.
Over the weekend I was determined to work out the tuning issues and get the car running great. However, I found that it seemed my entire fuel map was too lean by around 40%, which couldn't possibly be right.
First thing I need to double check is that my calibrations weren't corrupted by the old faulty S300 when I downloaded them. So I am going to create a new base tune, compare the maps and see if it runs better on that.
More than likely, I am thinking there is a mechanical issue with the fuel system. I am going to cover everything, replacing the filter, possibly FPR, cleaning injectors and do a pressure test. I can hear the pump chugging away so I am doubting it's the problem, but will check it out if pressure is an issue.
If all else fails and it turns out my tune is bad, then I will need a re-tune which sucks.
More to come this weekend.
Last edited by 2x0; 07-26-2018 at 11:47 AM.
#24
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Re: 1991 CRX Turbo B18 project/build thread
Today did not turn out as I had hoped. I installed the new fuel filter, then attempted to hook up the fuel pressure tester kit I loaned from Autozone. Only to find that none of the adapters would hook up to my Benen fuel rail. Wtf.
It looks like my rail has 3/8npt ports and 1/4npt reducer on one end which is where I wanted to pull from. How could a universal tester not have 1/4npt?! Anyway, I took it back, and ordered myself a cheap one I found online that comes with 1/4npt adapters. So now it'll be next weekend before I can pressure test.
The filter did not solve my issue, nor did running a new base tune. So more than likely I am still looking at a mechanical issue vs a tuning issue. I also noted that when idling on all cyls, it pulls 18 inches of vacuum. So I doubt a vac leak is the problem. I'm leaning towards the FPR.
I noticed after the car was sitting for a while there was a hissing sound from the fuel filter and a little gas had leaked from the banjo bolt. Always have hated banjo bolts. Used 2 new washers but still leaking. Guess I need to clean all the mating surfaces and reassemble.
The only upside today was the 60 degree weather, and sun shine so I was able to snap a few pics. Til next week...
It looks like my rail has 3/8npt ports and 1/4npt reducer on one end which is where I wanted to pull from. How could a universal tester not have 1/4npt?! Anyway, I took it back, and ordered myself a cheap one I found online that comes with 1/4npt adapters. So now it'll be next weekend before I can pressure test.
The filter did not solve my issue, nor did running a new base tune. So more than likely I am still looking at a mechanical issue vs a tuning issue. I also noted that when idling on all cyls, it pulls 18 inches of vacuum. So I doubt a vac leak is the problem. I'm leaning towards the FPR.
I noticed after the car was sitting for a while there was a hissing sound from the fuel filter and a little gas had leaked from the banjo bolt. Always have hated banjo bolts. Used 2 new washers but still leaking. Guess I need to clean all the mating surfaces and reassemble.
The only upside today was the 60 degree weather, and sun shine so I was able to snap a few pics. Til next week...