Hey, guys. First of all, let me apologize before-hand for the most-likely-stupid stuff im gonna be saying here. Im new to the site, and basically pretty new to the whole tuner scene, seeing as im only turning 15 in September. Ive got a hand-me-down '00 Accord EX coupe, with a V6. Its completely stock, and i guess i inherit it when i get my license. I really dont know much about cars yet, and im just learning stuff about the engine from my dad and stuff. Ive got plans for the car when i get it, which will probably start with little performance mods like intake and exhaust. Hopefully ill get it to a good performance level, and might start working on the exterior and interior and basically any appearance changes. Maybe you guys can kind of take me under your wing(s) and help me learn about cars, and maybe make some plans for it and give me suggestions. I probably need to start learning my engines, too. All i know is that i have a VTEC 3.0L V6. Do you guys have any advice for me as to how to learn about this kind of stuff? Thanks a lot

 

Almost forgot, ive got an automatic transmission that i REALLY want to convert to a manual. Any idea of about how much this would cost me?

 

welcome

read this forum...lots of useful information. just do a search on anything engine related and you'll most likely find it. another good place to start is

http://www.howstuffworks.com

it will show you how basic engines work, transmissions, turbos, etc... with nifty animations!

to learn about your car, and to do any extensive modding, you will have to buy a manual....haynes, helms, and chilton are the most common. but one and start reading!

before you plan on doing anything to your car, figure out what you want to do with it. your exhaust will need to be a certain size depending on if you go forced induction or naturally aspirated. you can go turbo or subercharged....figure out what YOU want and start from there. by the way, none of this is cheap so i hope you have a job

hope some of this helps! remember this: http://www.google.com is your friend!

 

Welcome, welcome, welcome! I am not new turning a wrench, but I am but a babe on this site and to Honda in general... havin' fun tearing apart an 89 Accord and figuring out why it needs 42 million vacuum lines, LOL. Before I began typing, I spent a LOT of time here reading every post I could, even those that did not apply to me, and I encourage you to do the same. The people here are friendly and helpful, and the only fool is the one who's ride is on the flatbed going home because his pride didn't let him ask before he began crankin bolts... so don't be afraid to ask, and ignore any snide comments about your experience... some of us didn't have a mentor and had to learn on our own, too.

That being said, there are three, absolutely necessary things you MUST have before beginning on any vehicle:

1. A plan. Know what you intend the outcome to be before you start, so you can research your parts to ensure compatibility factors are in order. Nothing more frustrating than a mod that does not work with a previous.

2. A manual. A helms is the best, and electronic versions are a great way to supplement the actual book, IMO.

3. Quality tools. At 15, I understand money is not something you have in abundance, but the 110 piece mechanics special for 40 bucks at the local parts store is simply not going to cut it. They are fine for oil and plug changes, but under the hood and suspension is different. Cheap wrenches and sockets round heads, bust knuckles, and can turn a fun hobby into a wrench throwing, kick the tires while cursing endeavor. Not fun. You don't need Snap On/MAC/Matco, etc... there are some good offshoots you should research to see what fits right in your hands and feels comfortable, such as Blackhawk (still pricy, IMO) or Craftsman. Take your time and find the tools that fit your grip and are ergonomic enough to use all day without them pesky hand/shoulder cramps.

Most of all, have fun, and learn all you can!! Good luck with everything and never be afraid to ask!!! There is a LOT of knowledge floating around this site!!

 

Welcome to the site! Just make sure you do a search on any questions you might have as many topics have already been covered previously. Any additional questions I'm sure the guys here would be more than happy to help you with.

 

Chances are your question has been asked before...many times...so like the other posts say...use the search button. Also...step back and take a look at your car...is it worth the money it would take to do what you would like with it? Alot of people get the wrong car for the job. Try as you might...your accord prolly isnt goin to beat a twin turbo supra...but it is a good platform to start learning on. There are alot of people on this forum that have alot of experience...then there are the people that have none what soever but like to get in their 2 cents. Just take your advice wisely. Also never judge a persons knowledge by the number of posts they have. All thats left is to say good luck and i'll be happy to answer any questions to the best of my knowledge.