K-series FAQ’s

Below is a brief description and links to the parts needed to perform a K-series swap. The K-series swap can be cheap if you do it right the first time! Don’t end up buying parts you do not need. We completed one of the first EG swaps over 5 years ago. We deal with everything K-series daily and know how to save you money but still get you the best parts for the swap. We sell direct and are ready to take your call.

We can create a custom parts list and pricing based on your needs please EMAIL US with what you have and we can price out the rest. We offer competitive pricing on complete packages and are ready to work you up a complete package price. Why not get everything from one place!

What is I-VTEC?

The “intelligent” I-VTEC system uses Variable Timing Control (VTC) to adjust “camshaft phasing.” By varying oil pressure, VTC can continuously vary intake timing relative to the engine’s exhaust timing. The result of I-VTEC is improved response and enhanced performance at low engine speeds and efficiency across a broad power band. This has been coined Hondas gift to tuners. From the factory VTC has not been optimized for pure performance. The K series motors with the most power will be optimizing the VTC system.

What is the Immobilizer?

Honda has installed a new immobilizer (type 3) in their 02+ model cars. The immobilizer system has 4 parts: The Key, Immobilizer system indicator, Immobilizer control unit, and ECM. All of these must be in place for the car to crank. The key is coded with a transponder id code. The immobilizer control unit is around the ignition switch and it uses an electromagnetic induction to power the transponder in the key. The key then sends its ID code to the control unit. Once received, it is matched against the code in the receivers’ memory. If the code matches, the immobilizer will send a coded signal to the ECM allowing the car to crank. If it does not match it will not send a code and the car will not crank.

What ECU will I have to use with my K series swap?

Honda has installed its latest version of the immobilizer into its newer generations which limits us on how to bypass this system. Luckily, Honda of Japan gets an ECU that does not have the Type 3 immobilizer installed. Thus you can install a Type R ECU into your chassis to allow it to crank with the necessary wiring changes. The other method requires the use of a Hondata K-pro,  AEM EMS or the HR immobilizer removal unit. The K-pro and EMS have the ability to disable the immobilizer from within. In addition to allowing you the ability to disable the immobilizer you will be able to adjust timing, fuel and cam/crank angles. If you plan on going fast with you K motor than the K-pro should be your first purchase. For more information regarding the HR immobilizer removal box click HERE. For more information on the K-pro click HERE.

What header will I need to use for this swap?

There are many header options available on the market and our engine mounts work with all of them. We recommend the 2 headers on our website for there availability and cost. The main thing to look for is ground clearance and how it aligns with the tunnel. These 2 issues are addressed with our headers. For more information about available headers, please click HERE.

I am not sure what to do with the wiring. How does your conversion harness work?

We start by using all new OEM connectors and creating a new sub-harness that interfaces with your factory dash harness and the OEM K series engine harness. We then add O2 sensor wire and a new Data Link Connector, if your chassis does not have one, for retrieving fault codes. Our harness will allow you to maintain full function of your factory gauge cluster and comes with a lifetime warranty from any manufactures defects. For more information on the Hybrid Racing harnesses, please click HERE.

What if I get confused while installing the conversion harness or don’t have wiring experience?

If at any point you have questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to contact any of the Hybrid Racing staff. What makes us different from other companies is that we provide 100% customer service. If you have a problem not only with the conversion harness but with any part of your K Series swap you can call or email us and get an answer from someone with experience. Our technical staff has been dealing with K series and K swaps since 2003.

What engine harness do I need to use for my K series swap?

You will be able to use the JDM and USDM K20A, A2 and A3 engine harness with the Hybrid Racing Conversion Harness.If you have an 05-06 engine harness we recommend re-pinning it to the 02-04 spec and using an 02-04 Kpro. You can always contact us with wiring questions HERE.

What is the charging harness and how do I modify it?

The charging harness (starter sub-wire harness) is a separate wiring harness that connects the fuse box and battery directly to the alternator and starter.Click HERE for more information.

What radiator can I use?

Hybrid Racing offers a direct bolt in radiator, fan, and radiator bracket that requires no modification to the chassis. The bolt in radiator has ports for the coolant switch and the thermo unit. You can also use the stock Civic radiator by relocating the lower tabs on the radiator support. For more information about radiators, please click HERE.

Why do I need the Coolant Switch and Thermo Unit?

The coolant switch (fan switch) controls the operation of the radiator fan. When installed properly the ECU will activate the fan when it reaches a set temperature. The thermo unit is the necessary sensor that controls the coolant temperature gauge in the factory gauge cluster. For more information on the coolant switch click HERE and for more information about the thermo unit click HERE.

What is the radiator hose insert and do I need it if I am running the Hybrid Racing Radiator?

The radiator hose insert is an adapter piece that goes inline in the radiator hose. You install the coolant switch and the thermo unit into this so that both sensors function properly. You do not need this part if you are running the Hybrid Racing Radiator. For more information on the radiator hose insert, please click HERE.

How will I shift the car?

We offer a complete bolt in shifter box solution. It requires no cutting and is hands down the best solution for your Kswap. For more information on the shift box, please click HERE.

What axles do I use when swapping a K series motor into a Civic or Integra chassis?

Hybrid Racing offers axles for your K series swap. These axles are designed with a chrome molly center and a billet inner c.v. The outer C.V. is superior to Honda’s dual arc design and incorporates a single arc design. For more information on available axles, please click HERE.

Do DSS Hybrid Racing Axles come with a warranty?

The new level 0 have no warranty against breakage.
The level 2.9, 3.9, and 5.9 have 1 year warranty against breakage.
The Warranty covers broken or worn part for the term, however boots are not covered. Fore more information on axles, please click HERE.

Can I make my own axles?

We do not recommend building your own axles. Each DSS Hybrid Racing axle has a specific length to ensure that there are no binding or breaking issues. To build your own axles you would need the correct length center bars and to this date there are no center bars that meet the correct lengths. The cost of building your axles including labor will most likely exceed the cost of a set of stage 0′s. Go ahead and purchase the correct part to ensure you do not have any problems.

Do Hybrid Racing mounts come with a warranty?

All mounts come with a limited lifetime warranty from manufacturer defects. For information on available mounts, please click HERE.

Can I use the stock clutch line?

You cannot use the factory line because of its length and position. Hybrid Racing offers a bolt in conversion clutch line. The lines are made of stainless steel surrounded in a rubber sleeve for superior strength and response. To purchase a Hybrid Racing Clutch Line, please click HERE.

Can you keep Air Conditioning?

You will be able to keep AC with custom lines and condenser mounting. Hybrid Racing now offers a direct bolt in Air Conditioning system for the DC, EG and EG chassis. To get more information on the AC kit, click HERE.

Can I keep Power Steering?

You can keep PS with the Hybrid racing kit. It works with the DC, EG and EG chassis! To purchase or see pictures of the kit, click HERE.

I know I need a new fuel system. What do I need?

You will need an aftermarket fuel rail, aftermarket fuel lines and a fuel pressure regulator. Hybrid Racing offers a complete bolt together fuel system kit that includes all of the necessary parts, as well as all of the necessary adapter fittings. A larger fuel pump is optional. To see the available kits, click HERE.

The Civic has a return fuel system & the RSX has a return-less system. What do I do about the fuel system?

The RSX motor has a return less fuel system and the EG/DC/EK chassis have a return fuel system. The RSX does not have a regulator on the fuel rail like the older style B, H, and D series motors. Depending on how you route the fuel lines you can keep the factory fuel rail. For more information about available fuel system products, click HERE.

Are your mounts a full race version? Can I drive my car on the street?

The bushings are optimized for a street/ strip car. To purchase a set of mounts, click HERE.

Can I pass emissions test with a K swap and is it legal on the street?

Check your local laws to determine the legality of the swap. You will also need to check with your referee to ensure that you will be able to pass any emission testing.

Are there any hood clearance issues with the K series motor?

If running a Type S engine the hood on your EG/DC/EK will fit with no modifications. If running a K24 engine or decked engine you will need to modify the webbing under the hood to provide adequate clearance for the valve cover and drive belt.

Are there any ground clearance or other clearance issues with the K series motor?

The main factor in ground clearance is ride height. If your car is lowered a significant amount you will need to pay more attention to pot holes and speed bumps. Depending on how low your chassis is you can have 3-4.5 inches of ground clearance.

Below is a brief description and links to the parts needed to perform a K-series swap. The K-series swap can be cheap if you do it right the first time! Don’t end up buying parts you do not need. We completed one of the first EG swaps over 5 years ago. We deal with everything K-series daily and know how to save you money but still get you the best parts for the swap!

We can create a custom parts list and pricing based on your needs please Contact us with what you have and we can price out the rest. We offer competitive pricing on complete packages and are ready to work you up a complete package price. Why not get everything from one place!?