I would first like to state that I have done much research and the FAQ in this forum does not answer my detailed questions. Hopefully the answers in this topic will replace that FAQ I've read.

Please refer to the following chart so we all are on the same page...



Gearbox:- Integra LS (b18b)
Tire:- 205/50 x 15
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Top Gear gives 21.911 MPH/1000 RPM and a top speed of 175.285 MPH at 8000 RPM

Engine speeds in top gear:-
Top Speed in 1 gear = 38.747 MPH
And changes into 2 gear at 4706 RPM dropping 3294 RPM
Top Speed in 2 gear = 65.870 MPH
And changes into 3 gear at 5373 RPM dropping 2627 RPM
Top Speed in 3 gear = 98.083 MPH
And changes into 4 gear at 6056 RPM dropping 1944 RPM
Top Speed in 4 gear = 129.559 MPH
And changes into 5 gear at 5913 RPM dropping 2087 RPM
Top Speed in 5 gear = 175.285 MPH
################################################## ########################################
Gearbox:- Integra GSR (b18c1)
Tire:- 205/50 x 15
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top Gear gives 19.273 MPH/1000 RPM and a top speed of 154.183 MPH at 8000 RPM

Engine speeds in top gear:-
Top Speed in 1 gear = 37.567 MPH
And changes into 2 gear at 4706 RPM dropping 3294 RPM
Top Speed in 2 gear = 63.864 MPH
And changes into 3 gear at 5726 RPM dropping 2274 RPM
Top Speed in 3 gear = 89.222 MPH
And changes into 4 gear at 6082 RPM dropping 1918 RPM
Top Speed in 4 gear = 117.352 MPH
And changes into 5 gear at 6089 RPM dropping 1911 RPM
Top Speed in 5 gear = 154.183 MPH

As the same as most of you, I am interested in upgrading to a GSR transmission on my 97' RS and need help with verification and compatibility of the transmissions I am looking at. My questions are:

1. How do I verify the integrity of a transmission without opening it up? What would you do?

2. Shifting by hand with shift linkage will only determine the integrity of what components of the tranny?

3. Will any hydro ITR, CTR, GSR transmission bolt up without frustration or hassle?

4. Since the GSR and LS transmissions have the same gear ratios for first and second gears, will there be a huge difference in acceleration like everyone says? The only other difference is final drive ratio which is not that much different. Please explain.

5. How do you inspect the threading of the VSS sensor and Reverse switch? Will OBD2a sensors work in OBD1? Will OBD2a sensors work in OBD2b?

6. Will shift linkage from LS fit into GSR trans without modification?

7. Is there any way to convert a cable clutch to hydro easily?

8. Can I carry a trans by myself and how fragile is the case while transporting? Anyone know stock weight of a GSR trans?

9. Before installing, should I replace any bearings besides the throw out bearing?

By asking these questions, I am simply trying to cover all angles and leave good reference for others. Thank you in advance.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
3. Will any hydro ITR, CTR, GSR transmission bolt up without frustration or hassle?

Yep!

4. Since the GSR and LS transmissions have the same gear ratios for first and second gears, will there be a huge difference in acceleration like everyone says? The only other difference is final drive ratio which is not that much different. Please explain.

There is a small but noticable difference in first and second...but the next gears are where you really feel the differences going from a b18b with an LS tranny to one with a GSR tranny. I'd die if I got stuck with my old LS tranny again...

6. Will shift linkage from LS fit into GSR trans without modification?

Yes!

8. Can I carry a trans by myself and how fragile is the case while transporting? Anyone know stock weight of a GSR trans?

My GSR tranny weighs about 80lb with no fluids. Very easy to carry, manage, even under the car.</TD></TR></TABLE>

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Thank you, you answered a lot. Still looking for more insight.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">7. Is there any way to convert a cable clutch to hydro easily?</TD></TR></TABLE>

Well, it's not the clutch that is cable or hydro, it's the method of actuation. The function is the same, only the exteriors of the trannies are designed to connect to different actuation mechanisms and slightly different mounting arrangements.

There are companies that make the necessary components to make either tranny compatible with either actuation method.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">9. Before installing, should I replace any bearings besides the throw out bearing?</TD></TR></TABLE>

The pilot bearing in the center of the flywheel is never a bad suspect for replacement. Also make sure that the axle seals are in good order.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Kendall &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
The pilot bearing in the center of the flywheel is never a bad suspect for replacement. Also make sure that the axle seals are in good order.</TD></TR></TABLE>

Are there any DIY's for this or can you at least show me on Honda's parts diagram what I am looking for? The axle seals should be self explanatory, correct?

 

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1. Open it up or drive it in the car. If you are serious about the tranny, do it.

2. Not a whole lot if the tranny is not in the car and you can't drive it. Pretty much verifying that the stacks are assembled still and the shift forks work. Not a lot man.

5. Remove the VSS sensor and look at the threads. Or if you are referring to the one on the diff.....drive the car and watch the speedo. If you can't drive it, see #1.

I think all the other questions were answered.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">1. How do I verify the integrity of a transmission without opening it up? What would you do?</TD></TR></TABLE>
I would open it up. With air tools, I can disassemble a transmission in about 10 minutes.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">2. Shifting by hand with shift linkage will only determine the integrity of what components of the tranny?</TD></TR></TABLE>
Shift change holder, and to some extent the condition of the synchro sleeves. It really doesn't tell you much about the condition without a visual inspection.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">3. Will any hydro ITR, CTR, GSR transmission bolt up without frustration or hassle?</TD></TR></TABLE>
Yes.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">4. Since the GSR and LS transmissions have the same gear ratios for first and second gears, will there be a huge difference in acceleration like everyone says? The only other difference is final drive ratio which is not that much different. Please explain.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Yes. No explanation needed. The numbers are justification enough.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">5. How do you inspect the threading of the VSS sensor and Reverse switch? Will OBD2a sensors work in OBD1? Will OBD2a sensors work in OBD2b?</TD></TR></TABLE>
Run a pilot bolt through the threads in the casing and then verify the threads on the back-up light switch with a M14x1.5 nut or with a thread pitch gauge.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">6. Will shift linkage from LS fit into GSR trans without modification?</TD></TR></TABLE>
From the same generation, yes. Across generations, I don't know.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">7. Is there any way to convert a cable clutch to hydro easily?</TD></TR></TABLE>
Hasport makes a kit...I think.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">8. Can I carry a trans by myself and how fragile is the case while transporting? Anyone know stock weight of a GSR trans?</TD></TR></TABLE>
It weighs about 80lb's. Any man (and some women) with a half full ball sack should be able to pick up a transmission.

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by lmike6453 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">9. Before installing, should I replace any bearings besides the throw out bearing?</TD></TR></TABLE>
Yes. Replace the input shaft bearing in the clutch housing, then the differential bearings if you have the money, and third the ball bearing on the top of the countershaft.

 

Wow great info. Thanks guys. Only problem is all the deals I come accross, the trans is not in the vehicle. Obviously I have to open it up but I have no clue what to look for and what should indicate whether something is cracked or broken.
Any pictures with labels for exactly what to do when inspecting the internals?

 

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You can start with appropriate pages in any of the service manuals, as well as the obvious (e.g. broken bearing cages, bent or worn shift forks, noisy bearings, etc.).