Few Misc. Questions
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Honda-Tech Member
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 3,840
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From: portland, oregon, multhnomah
Few Misc. Questions
I just have a few misc. questions. Just looking for answers on some or all. I will be making a road trip to Greenbay WI from Portland OR and was just wondering a few things before i leave. Which won't be for 18 months or so, so i have ALOT of time to finish. And i also plan on keeping this car until the day my pubes turn white, so i want to change out everything.
1)What does a full rebuild of an engine consist of?
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
3)What full coilover suspension kits are there for our cars? ie:
I'm looking for something that will ride better then coilovers and KYB GR2, but at the same time be able to handle abuse.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
8)Is there a place i can buy HID kits for JDM CB7 one piece headlights?
9)My lights (ie. dash light, headlights, tail lights) have been dimming alot recently, is this a sign of a bad grounding wire or a dead battery/ alternator?
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
11) Does anyone still make the Carbon fiber trunk for the 92-93 accord sedans? If so does someone have a link?
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
Thanks guys for the help, i know i have more but this post is going on forever.
1)What does a full rebuild of an engine consist of?
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
3)What full coilover suspension kits are there for our cars? ie:
I'm looking for something that will ride better then coilovers and KYB GR2, but at the same time be able to handle abuse.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
8)Is there a place i can buy HID kits for JDM CB7 one piece headlights?
9)My lights (ie. dash light, headlights, tail lights) have been dimming alot recently, is this a sign of a bad grounding wire or a dead battery/ alternator?
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
11) Does anyone still make the Carbon fiber trunk for the 92-93 accord sedans? If so does someone have a link?
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
Thanks guys for the help, i know i have more but this post is going on forever.
Honda-Tech Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,349
Likes: 1
From: North of Boston, MA, USA
Re: Few Misc. Questions (Fook_me_honda)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Fook_me_honda »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">1)What does a full rebuild of an engine consist of?
replacing all the parts.
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
it's not that hard, if you are mechanically inclined and have a helms manual handy go for it.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
could be as simple as a tire out of balance.
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
yes it will be harsher. comfort vs. performance is your choice.
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
exhaust valves turn white. this is normal.
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
if you're made of money sure. IMO if it ain't broke don't fix it.
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
what exactly are you taking apart? a timing belt does not require engine disassembly.
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
not under normal driving conditions.
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
a little redline water wetter never hurts. if you're worried about overheating get an aftermarket water temp gauge and keep an eye on it. if the antifreeze is old change it.
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
that's enough.
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
no. run some Stabil through the tank before you store the car so the gas doesn't go bad. DO NOT DRAIN THE ENGINE OIL! But before you take the car back out of storage do an oil change.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
some answers above. -B
replacing all the parts.
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
it's not that hard, if you are mechanically inclined and have a helms manual handy go for it.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
could be as simple as a tire out of balance.
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
yes it will be harsher. comfort vs. performance is your choice.
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
exhaust valves turn white. this is normal.
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
if you're made of money sure. IMO if it ain't broke don't fix it.
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
what exactly are you taking apart? a timing belt does not require engine disassembly.
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
not under normal driving conditions.
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
a little redline water wetter never hurts. if you're worried about overheating get an aftermarket water temp gauge and keep an eye on it. if the antifreeze is old change it.
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
that's enough.
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
no. run some Stabil through the tank before you store the car so the gas doesn't go bad. DO NOT DRAIN THE ENGINE OIL! But before you take the car back out of storage do an oil change.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
some answers above. -B
Honda-Tech Member
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 231
Likes: 0
From: Filthadelphia City of Brothers and Love, PA, USA
Re: Few Misc. Questions (Fook_me_honda)
1)What does a full rebuild of an engine consist of?
A: To do it correctly or do a quick crap job? There is a big difference. To do it correcly, remove the entire engine and trans. Mount engine of an engine stand. Carefully disassemble whole engine inspecting all major parts like the block, crank, heads for noticeable damage. Send the heads, block, crank and pistons out to a high quality machine shop. Have them hone the cylinder bores, and plane the block if out of tollerances. Have them do a complete valve job to the heads. Have the crank bearing surfaces cleaned up. Have the shop check the connecting rods and pistons for wear and replace any that are worn, OR if they have to bore the block cylinders, replace all of the pistons with the new correct sized ones. Buy a new cam, and new lifters. Buy new water pump, all new belts and a complete gasket kit. Buy new cam bearings and have the machine shop install them and buy new crank bearings. Buy all new piston rings once you know the size to buy. Buy a new oil pump while your at it, and all tune up parts. Clean everything that did not go to the machine shop, and toss out all parts to be replaced. Place the block on a machine stand and wash with soap and water and air dry with compressed air. Paint the block if you want to. Install the lower crank bearings, and carefylly lower the crank into position. Place a small piece of plastigauge on the crank and install the lower bearings and torque to spec's. Remove the lower bearings and check the plastigauge to make sure the bearing play is within tollerances. If not, but over sized bearings and repeat above process until tollerances are met. Once the crank is in place pour a little engine oil over each bearing, next each piston in turn will have its rings installed and gapped according to spec's. Coat each cylinder with a light coat of motor oil. Place a bearing on the rod end, and protective caps on the rod bolts and install each piston in its original location. Install the lower bearing into the bearing cap and install. Torque to specs'. Pour some engine oil over the rod bearings at the crank. Once all pistons are installed, install the oil pump and oil pan using new gaskets and seals. Turn the engine over on the stand and install the heads using new head gaskets. Install the new water pump and timing belt and set the crank to cam timing. Manually adjust the valves to specs. Install all of the motor accessories like the oil filter, distributor etc. Install the engine and transmission into the car. Complete reassembly. Pour fresh motor oil over the valve and cam assemblies and replace the valve cover. Replace all fluids and start the engine. Check all pressures and look for leaks. If you find none your set, just drive easy for the first 500 miles to break everything in. This is a VERY basic example, but should give you the idea of how a correct job is done.
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
A: It is not a job for amatures. You have to have the correct tools to do the job. While your in there replace the water pump too. If its your first time I would defintely have a helper who has done several timing belts there to help and give guidance.
3)What full coilover suspension kits are there for our cars?
A: Too many, this is a waste of your money unless you instend to race the car on a circuit track.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
A: If you have doubts ask the mechanic you took it to to show you how they know its the tie rod. Sounds like they are guessing if they say tie rod or steering rack. It could be a toe in condition, it could be a bad tie rod end. This info is too vague.
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
A: These are another waste of time unless you plan to circuit race the car and need to slightly better handling. Stick with OEM.
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
A: Headers or heads? Whitish or off wite valves are fine. Its black, gray or went ones that are a problem. Whom ever "someone" is doesn't know crap, so steer clear of them and their advice.
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
A: Why? Leave well enough alone.
8)Is there a place i can buy HID kits for JDM CB7 one piece headlights?
A: Why? Another serious waste of money to make your car look stupid.
9)My lights (ie. dash light, headlights, tail lights) have been dimming alot recently, is this a sign of a bad grounding wire or a dead battery/ alternator?
A: Could be a bad ground, but more likely a dying battery or an alternator thats not charging correctly. I'd say its most likely to me your battery is crapping out and your electrical system is depending on the alternator to keep the systems running. If the batter is a few years old go buy a good replacement before you cook the alternator by over working it.
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
A: Why is your engine apart? All gaskets should be replaced regarding any components you've removed so far. Never reuse gaskets your asking for trouble. Its your all the way torn down, go see #1.
11) Does anyone still make the Carbon fiber trunk for the 92-93 accord sedans? If so does someone have a link?
A: Why? Your wasting your money on this trash......
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
A: NO! Unless your competing for some sort of prize at a customized car show or event, they are a total and complete waste of money.
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
A: If the car is driven now and on hot days it has no issues, there is no reason to think it would over heat on a longer trip. Just make sure your collant leel is full and your oil is clean and full and have at it.
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
A: Just make sure your anti-freeze collant is full and your windshield wasaher fluid is topped off.
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
A: Drain NOTHING. Just park the car. If your worried about it sitting, start it once every two weeks to get things flowing. Don't fall for the idiotic stories about old oil and stale gas you hear. Gas is gas and it will not harm a thing unless your sitting for years, not months, and if thats the case, a bottle of Sta-Bil will keep the gas fresh.
A: To do it correctly or do a quick crap job? There is a big difference. To do it correcly, remove the entire engine and trans. Mount engine of an engine stand. Carefully disassemble whole engine inspecting all major parts like the block, crank, heads for noticeable damage. Send the heads, block, crank and pistons out to a high quality machine shop. Have them hone the cylinder bores, and plane the block if out of tollerances. Have them do a complete valve job to the heads. Have the crank bearing surfaces cleaned up. Have the shop check the connecting rods and pistons for wear and replace any that are worn, OR if they have to bore the block cylinders, replace all of the pistons with the new correct sized ones. Buy a new cam, and new lifters. Buy new water pump, all new belts and a complete gasket kit. Buy new cam bearings and have the machine shop install them and buy new crank bearings. Buy all new piston rings once you know the size to buy. Buy a new oil pump while your at it, and all tune up parts. Clean everything that did not go to the machine shop, and toss out all parts to be replaced. Place the block on a machine stand and wash with soap and water and air dry with compressed air. Paint the block if you want to. Install the lower crank bearings, and carefylly lower the crank into position. Place a small piece of plastigauge on the crank and install the lower bearings and torque to spec's. Remove the lower bearings and check the plastigauge to make sure the bearing play is within tollerances. If not, but over sized bearings and repeat above process until tollerances are met. Once the crank is in place pour a little engine oil over each bearing, next each piston in turn will have its rings installed and gapped according to spec's. Coat each cylinder with a light coat of motor oil. Place a bearing on the rod end, and protective caps on the rod bolts and install each piston in its original location. Install the lower bearing into the bearing cap and install. Torque to specs'. Pour some engine oil over the rod bearings at the crank. Once all pistons are installed, install the oil pump and oil pan using new gaskets and seals. Turn the engine over on the stand and install the heads using new head gaskets. Install the new water pump and timing belt and set the crank to cam timing. Manually adjust the valves to specs. Install all of the motor accessories like the oil filter, distributor etc. Install the engine and transmission into the car. Complete reassembly. Pour fresh motor oil over the valve and cam assemblies and replace the valve cover. Replace all fluids and start the engine. Check all pressures and look for leaks. If you find none your set, just drive easy for the first 500 miles to break everything in. This is a VERY basic example, but should give you the idea of how a correct job is done.
2)Will an amatuer like me be able to attempt a timing belt change? Or how hard is it excatly?
A: It is not a job for amatures. You have to have the correct tools to do the job. While your in there replace the water pump too. If its your first time I would defintely have a helper who has done several timing belts there to help and give guidance.
3)What full coilover suspension kits are there for our cars?
A: Too many, this is a waste of your money unless you instend to race the car on a circuit track.
4)My car is shaking at speeds of 60+ mph, a mechanic said that it was my left tie rod or steering rack, but everything seems to check out fine. Should i replace the whole thing anyways?
A: If you have doubts ask the mechanic you took it to to show you how they know its the tie rod. Sounds like they are guessing if they say tie rod or steering rack. It could be a toe in condition, it could be a bad tie rod end. This info is too vague.
5)Will replacing my bushings with polyutherane create a harsher ride? should i just stick to OEM?
A: These are another waste of time unless you plan to circuit race the car and need to slightly better handling. Stick with OEM.
6)Took off my headers a few weeks ago and my valves were completely white, someone told me this was not a good sign, is that true and should i replace them?
A: Headers or heads? Whitish or off wite valves are fine. Its black, gray or went ones that are a problem. Whom ever "someone" is doesn't know crap, so steer clear of them and their advice.
7)Even though my starter isn't dead should i replace it anyways?
A: Why? Leave well enough alone.
8)Is there a place i can buy HID kits for JDM CB7 one piece headlights?
A: Why? Another serious waste of money to make your car look stupid.
9)My lights (ie. dash light, headlights, tail lights) have been dimming alot recently, is this a sign of a bad grounding wire or a dead battery/ alternator?
A: Could be a bad ground, but more likely a dying battery or an alternator thats not charging correctly. I'd say its most likely to me your battery is crapping out and your electrical system is depending on the alternator to keep the systems running. If the batter is a few years old go buy a good replacement before you cook the alternator by over working it.
10)Is there anything i should replace while i have my engine taken apart? Piston rings? head gasket? etc?
A: Why is your engine apart? All gaskets should be replaced regarding any components you've removed so far. Never reuse gaskets your asking for trouble. Its your all the way torn down, go see #1.
11) Does anyone still make the Carbon fiber trunk for the 92-93 accord sedans? If so does someone have a link?
A: Why? Your wasting your money on this trash......
12)Will upgrading to stainless steel brake lines really make that much of a difference?
A: NO! Unless your competing for some sort of prize at a customized car show or event, they are a total and complete waste of money.
13)I will be driving non-stop, should i worry about overheating? I have an aftermarket koyo radiator and flex lite fan. Is there something i should look into to make sure my car doesn't blow up?
A: If the car is driven now and on hot days it has no issues, there is no reason to think it would over heat on a longer trip. Just make sure your collant leel is full and your oil is clean and full and have at it.
14)What fluids should i flush and change out before going? I have already changed the tranny fluid, and oil, and coolant. What else should i be looking into?
A: Just make sure your anti-freeze collant is full and your windshield wasaher fluid is topped off.
15) I will be leaving the car mostly parked in my garage for this period of time, should i drain the gas tank? and if there is gasoline in the car will it do any damage for long extended periods of time? also should i drain the engine of oil? or will it be fine? anything i should look at?
A: Drain NOTHING. Just park the car. If your worried about it sitting, start it once every two weeks to get things flowing. Don't fall for the idiotic stories about old oil and stale gas you hear. Gas is gas and it will not harm a thing unless your sitting for years, not months, and if thats the case, a bottle of Sta-Bil will keep the gas fresh.
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