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The Honda S2000 AP2 is a beloved sports car known for its high-revving engine and exceptional handling. One of the most effective ways to increase horsepower is by upgrading the piston and rod kit. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing the Supertech Piston and Rod Kit on your S2000 AP2, aiming for a significant boost of over 50 wheel horsepower (WHP).
Tools and Materials Needed
- Supertech Piston and Rod Kit
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Engine hoist
- Oil and coolant
- Gasket set
- Timing belt tools
- Cleaning supplies (brake cleaner, rags)
- Safety glasses and gloves
Preparation
Before starting the installation, ensure you have a clean workspace and all necessary tools and materials at hand. This will make the process smoother and more efficient.
1. Disconnect the Battery
Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical shorts while working on the engine.
2. Remove Engine Covers
Remove any engine covers and accessories that may obstruct access to the engine block. This includes the intake manifold and throttle body.
3. Drain Fluids
Drain the engine oil and coolant to prevent spills during the installation. Make sure to dispose of these fluids properly.
Removing the Engine
To install the Supertech Piston and Rod Kit, you will need to remove the engine from the vehicle. Follow these steps carefully.
1. Remove the Intake and Exhaust Manifolds
Disconnect and remove the intake and exhaust manifolds. Label any hoses and wires to ensure proper reinstallation.
2. Disconnect Wiring Harness
Carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the engine. Take note of where each connector goes for easier reassembly.
3. Unbolt the Engine from the Transmission
Unbolt the engine from the transmission. Ensure that you have support for the engine as you proceed to the next step.
4. Use Engine Hoist
Attach the engine hoist to the engine and carefully lift it out of the engine bay. Place it on a sturdy surface for disassembly.
Disassembling the Engine
With the engine out, it’s time to disassemble it for the installation of the new piston and rod kit.
1. Remove the Oil Pan
Unbolt and remove the oil pan to access the bottom end of the engine. Be cautious of any remaining oil.
2. Remove the Connecting Rods
Carefully unbolt the connecting rods from the crankshaft. Keep track of the order and orientation of each component.
3. Remove the Pistons
Push the pistons out of the cylinders, taking care not to damage the cylinder walls. Inspect the cylinder bore for any damage.
Installing the Supertech Piston and Rod Kit
Now that the engine is disassembled, it’s time to install the Supertech Piston and Rod Kit.
1. Prepare New Components
Before installation, ensure that the new pistons and rods are clean and free of debris. Follow any specific instructions provided by Supertech.
2. Install New Pistons
Insert the new pistons into the cylinders, ensuring they are oriented correctly. Use assembly lube on the piston rings for easier installation.
3. Attach New Connecting Rods
Attach the new connecting rods to the crankshaft, making sure to torque them to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is crucial for engine longevity.
4. Reassemble the Engine
Reinstall the oil pan, ensuring a proper seal with a new gasket. Reattach the intake and exhaust manifolds, wiring harness, and any other components removed earlier.
Reinstalling the Engine
With the engine fully assembled, it’s time to place it back into the vehicle.
1. Use Engine Hoist Again
Carefully position the engine hoist over the engine bay and lower the engine back into place. Ensure it aligns with the transmission.
2. Bolt the Engine to the Transmission
Once the engine is in place, bolt it back to the transmission securely. Double-check all connections.
3. Reconnect Wiring Harness
Reconnect the wiring harness and ensure all connectors are secured and properly seated.
4. Reinstall Intake and Exhaust Manifolds
Reinstall the intake and exhaust manifolds, making sure to use new gaskets where necessary to prevent leaks.
Final Steps
After reinstalling the engine, there are a few final steps to complete before starting it up.
1. Refill Fluids
Refill the engine oil and coolant to the appropriate levels. Check for any leaks before starting the engine.
2. Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Ensure all electrical connections are secure.
3. Start the Engine
Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises and check for leaks.
4. Test Drive
After confirming everything is working properly, take the car for a test drive. Monitor the performance and ensure that the desired horsepower increase is achieved.
Conclusion
Installing the Supertech Piston and Rod Kit on your S2000 AP2 can significantly enhance its performance, providing an increase of over 50 WHP. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure a successful installation and enjoy the benefits of your upgraded engine.