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The Honda Civic EF, produced between 1988 and 1991, has become a popular platform for tuners looking to build a high-performance vehicle. With its lightweight chassis and reliable engine, the EF Civic can easily be modified to exceed 200 horsepower. In this article, we will explore turbo kits, fuel system upgrades, and ECU tuning to help you achieve that goal.
Turbo Kits for the EF Civic
Turbocharging is one of the most effective ways to increase horsepower in your EF Civic. There are several turbo kits available on the market that cater specifically to this model. Here are some popular options:
- Greddy Turbo Kit
- Revhard Turbo Kit
- Full-Race Turbo Kit
- HKS Turbo Kit
Each of these kits comes with its own set of components, including a turbocharger, manifold, intercooler, and all necessary piping. When selecting a turbo kit, consider the following factors:
- Power goals
- Budget
- Installation complexity
- Supporting modifications required
Choosing the Right Turbocharger
The choice of turbocharger is critical to achieving your desired horsepower. Larger turbos can produce more power but may result in increased lag. Smaller turbos spool quicker but may limit peak power. Here are some popular turbochargers for the EF Civic:
- Garrett GT28
- Holset HX35
- Precision 6262
- GTX3076R
Fuel System Upgrades
To support the increased airflow from a turbocharger, upgrading the fuel system is essential. This ensures that your engine receives the proper amount of fuel to match the added boost pressure. Here are the key components to consider:
- Fuel Injectors
- Fuel Pump
- Fuel Pressure Regulator
Upgrading Fuel Injectors
Higher-flow fuel injectors are necessary to meet the demands of a turbocharged engine. Stock injectors may not provide enough fuel, leading to lean conditions and potential engine damage. Common choices for the EF Civic include:
- RC Engineering 550cc Injectors
- DeatschWerks 650cc Injectors
- Injector Dynamics 1000cc Injectors
Upgrading the Fuel Pump
A high-performance fuel pump is vital for maintaining fuel pressure under boost. A stock fuel pump may not be able to keep up with the increased demand. Popular options include:
- Walbro 255lph Fuel Pump
- AEM 340lph Fuel Pump
- DeatschWerks DW200 Fuel Pump
ECU Tuning
Once you have installed your turbo kit and upgraded your fuel system, the next step is to tune your ECU. Proper tuning is crucial for maximizing performance and ensuring engine longevity. Here are some tuning options:
- Standalone ECU
- Chipped OEM ECU
- Tuning Software
Standalone ECU
A standalone ECU provides the most control over your engine’s parameters. Options like the AEM Infinity or Haltech Elite allow for precise tuning of fuel maps, ignition timing, and boost control. However, they can be more complex to install and tune.
Chipped OEM ECU
For those on a budget, a chipped OEM ECU can be a good compromise. Companies like Hondata and Neptune offer chips that can be flashed onto your existing ECU, allowing for basic tuning capabilities without the need for a complete standalone system.
Tuning Software
Using tuning software can help you adjust fuel maps and ignition timing yourself. Programs like Chrome or CROME Pro allow for real-time adjustments, but require a good understanding of engine dynamics to use effectively.
Conclusion
Building a 200+ horsepower EF Civic is an exciting project that requires careful planning and execution. By selecting the right turbo kit, upgrading your fuel system, and tuning your ECU, you can create a powerful and reliable vehicle that stands out on the road. Always remember to monitor your engine’s performance and make adjustments as needed to ensure longevity and reliability.