Hey all-
Looking for good advice on a sick 2002 EP3 with fairly stock K20A3.
I just installed some BC stage 2 cams supported by Skunk2 valve springs and a Toda auto-tensioner. The engine already has a CAI and Hondata reflash on the ECU.
I've spent way too many hours now trying to get it running smoothly - adjusted the timing half a dozen times, new spark plugs, stock tensioner etc. but it won't run smooth without alot of gas and even then it's throwing the dreaded flashing check engine light.
I was told by a number of folks that the reflash would be sufficient to handle the new cams but now I'm wondering if I need to upgrade to KPro and get the thing tuned before it will run OR is something else wrong??
I've double checked all part #'s and valve lash and still can't get anywhere.
Any experienced advice would be appreciated.
If pro tuning is suggested does anyone have any good suggestions in the Detroit area?
Thanks

 

you need kpro to get it running correctly. what cel is it throwing?

 

First off don't turn your car on again until you get kpro and your car is on a dyno ready to be tuned. You NEED K-PRO. Whoever told you the reflash would be fine is a moron. In fact, kick him in the ***** for wasting so much of your time trying to get the car running right.

 

K-Pro=happy ep3

 

This goes for any car.... if you change the cams, you need a tune.

 

Thanks for the input guys - figured that was the case but good to have the outside confirmation.
DoooD-
the cel is only lighting (flashing) when the engine is running and then disappears so there's no code.

 

the cel is flashing because its either getting knock or ghost knock because of the cams/ valve springs. I got a flashing cel when I had skunk2 cams/springs/retainers.

Kpro to the rescue!

if you havent done so already make the switch to 5w-30, as the 5w-20 is to thin and can do damage to the cams.

 

Solid advice on the oil switch.
Thanks

 

Spot on. In fact, every time your CEL flashes that means your engine is knocking... Reflash advances timing which is not a good idea with aftermarket internals.