Project DC2 Integra K20 Install Part 2

Last month (Dec. '09) I covered Part 1 of the K-swap that explained all the necessary parts needed for the swap. If you missed that issue but would like to reference that article, just log on to www.modified.com and look in the tech section-it will be posted there.

This month I'm going to go through the actual installation of the K20A into the DC2 chassis. What you won't see is a step-by-step guide; instead, I'll go through some of the key points in the swap to provide you with much-needed tips and pointers so your swap can go smoothly and you won't make the same mistakes I did.

The K-swap is very involved and will require some good mechanical skills and knowledge. If you have access to a hoist, it will be a bonus. A diverse set of tools will be key. You won't be able to pull this off with just a toolbox full of wrenches.

Before you touch anything on the car, make sure you install or change all the necessary parts on the K20 so when it's ready to go you can just drop it in. We installed a Competition Clutch Stage 2 clutch and lightweight flywheel, and also bolted up the Hybrid Racing fuel rail (right).
Before you touch anything on the car, make sure you install or change all the necessary pa
Changing the belts is a good idea with the engine out because there's very little clearance in the engine bay.
Changing the belts is a good idea with the engine out because there's very little clearanc

Be prepared to spend anywhere from two days (if you've done the swap before) or up to a week (if this is your first K-swap and/or if you run into problems). As I mentioned, it's a very involved swap; almost everything will be changed out because you're mounting a motor that's essentially flipped 180 degrees compared to the B-series. Take your time and you'll be rewarded with a properly installed K20A.

Project Dc2 Integra K20 Install Part 2 Dropped Engine

Removing the B18 is standard procedure. Disconnect all the wires, tubes and lines running to the engine; remove the driveshafts and exhaust; and then remove the motor mounts. As you can see, we dropped the engine from below. You can pull it from above with an engine hoist if you don't have access to a lift.

Removing the B18 is standard procedure. Disconnect all the wires, tubes and lines running

After you're finished with the project, make sure to give your buddies a pat on the back or some tasty beverages for all their help. In my case, I had four friends helping out: thanks to Sasha Anis for lending me space in his shop, Dave Pratte and Marco for all the mechanical help, and Andrew "Moose" DelaCour for spending a full day crammed underneath the dash of the Integra doing the wiring.

We're done with the hard part and the light is at the end of the tunnel. All that's keeping us from ripping some serious VTEC is an exhaust and a tune, which you'll be able to read all about next month.

You'll have to remove the passenger-side chassis engine mount. This is where having air tools comes in handy. We used an air chisel to separate the spot welds holding the mount in place.
You'll have to remove the passenger-side chassis engine mount. This is where having air to
This is what the framerail looks like after the removal of the mount. We blasted it with some paint to keep it from rusting, then installed the Hybrid Racing mounting plate.
This is what the framerail looks like after the removal of the mount. We blasted it with s

If you'll be keeping the power steering, now is a good time to install the fitting and line (this is also a Hybrid Racing product).
If you'll be keeping the power steering, now is a good time to install the fitting and lin
The wiring will require you to get deep under the dash, so removing your seats will help quite a bit.
The wiring will require you to get deep under the dash, so removing your seats will help q
Hybrid Racing provides detailed instructions for its conversion harness. Take your time and ensure you've made all the proper connections and splices.
Hybrid Racing provides detailed instructions for its conversion harness. Take your time an