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The car has now lived in the shops between Car Tunes, Crown Acura and Superior Auto Body for the past 10 months. More lessons have been learned. Specifically with tech, seats, and suspension.
The AVIC8100 is installed with the total overhaul of stereo, Pioneer is working on an OBDII wire specifically for our cars.
Dash pictures, the amber lights are actually red. The only amber lights are the low heat, high heat is red.
The repaint job is the second paint job after the 360 camera install. They scratched the paint in several areas, of course no one fessed up to the damage so waste of money
Repainted the hood and trunk, including the underside the same paint as the outside, very attractive look. They covered the VIN sticker on the hood without me asking, very nice.
I have two sets of LED lighting under the car. One is bright white for alarm/door. The other is in the grille, inside floor and under the car alongside the white LED's. Each set of lights are controlled separately, so I can just have the interior or grille or all on... Yes, it's a toy and unrelated to the rebuild...
Going over the whole ordeal... There's more lessons to be learned...
1. Stereo shops are not sensitive to the small details of cars. All of them, even the very high end, never do as good as a job as you'd like. Save your detail work and inside car work until after the stereo work is complete.
2. 360 cameras - Not as good as stock systems that are custom made for the cars. After 3 stereo shops have tried to make it like stock, there's still flaws related to the software itself.
3. Backup camera screens built into the rearview - If you have extraordinary bass, the mirror is too heavy for the ball joints and the mirror starts drooping from the joints until it's facing down. I had Acura epoxy the crap out of the mirror. It is no longer movable but at least it doesn't droop from excessive bass vibration.
4. Suspension - Check into shaving down the bushings prior to install. They squeak if you change all the thin stock ones with twice as thick linkage and bushings.
5. Brakes - check the calipers prior to putting your stock rims on, a real pain to redo brakes due to caliper size. Wasted two brake jobs and calipers that didn't fit stock.
6. Radio buttons on the steering wheel - If your radio buttons on your steering wheel for changing channels work intermittently, it's actually the brass grounding ring around the steering wheel column. Just replace that one 5 dollar part, don't waste money replacing the buttons as they are not the issue.
7. LED lights in the dash - LED light manufacturers aren't specific on the quality of lights. Spend MORE on those lights and get good ones. We spent months replacing burned out LED's and off colored lights.
8. Air conditioned seats - It's a no go. After wasting padding on two attempts to try this, it can't be done effectively with a stock look. This was a $8,000 mistake and turned out to be a total waste of effort. The seat cushion padding fits with clips on the stock leather. There is no way to get around this unless you custom leather the seat and don't use the clip points.
The one thing that I did not see under that hood was the CT-Engineering supercharger?
Did that acquisition fall through?
After I thought about it, the need for gauges, the moving of the battery area, and the possible compromise of the engine, along with the transmission, I decided not to.
The one thing that made this car my favorite was the reliability. I know I've tinkered with it some to make it a little bothersome. I think doing more engine work beyond the intake/exhaust could cause more harm than good. Since I'm barely a novice on car timing, it was something I didn't want to try to take on, even with Acura installation.
The speed for me wasn't what I wanted out of this car, I have much faster cars that a supercharger would be insignificant in comparison.
I ended up going with the Acura tech's idea and got DC headers since they bolted on and didn't change the pitch too much. I was also surprised how cheap they were in comparison with what CT quoted me, literally 10X the price.
1. Anyone replace their rims with the new 18 inch TLX rims? I'm worried about ride quality. The grey inset ones bolt on exactly (actually all Acura rims pretty much bolt on interchangeably).
2. Replacing OEM Catalytic converter with Magnaflow. Will there be any noise difference? Will it remain quiet or give fault codes? (all O2 and exhaust have been replaced)
3. Door panels. Does anyone have a source or know anyone who has NEW inside door panels? Mine look fine but it's the ONLY part I can't seem to get my hands on. Everything in the door has been replaced except the panel. All new motors, wires, cable, door check, hinge, buttons, locks, inside armrest, etc...
3. Door panels. Does anyone have a source or know anyone who has NEW inside door panels? Mine look fine but it's the ONLY part I can't seem to get my hands on. Everything in the door has been replaced except the panel. All new motors, wires, cable, door check, hinge, buttons, locks, inside armrest, etc...
Lance, I googled Acura:
#83533-S3M-A702A; Front door lining; right side, black
#83583-S3M-A702A; Front door lining; left side, black
However, just because they are listed may not mean they are readily available and may have been discontinued. Sometimes these webstores don't update their parts lists in a timely manner.
It's wonderful to see the level of effort and dedication you put into this car. To see the amount of satisfaction the cl gives you considering the stable of cars you own and have owned is paramount.
Why did you ask this in Lance's thread? This would be weird even for Facebook. Search the forum for what other people have already done and posted up for you. Then make a separate thread with any questions you still have.
Like to slightly lower my 2003 CL-S type. Seen the stance of Lances Acura. A cheap way that does not effect handling, camber it tow.
Thanks for any help guys!
Why did you ask this in Lance's thread? This would be weird even for Facebook. Search the forum for what other people have already done and posted up for you. Then make a separate thread with any questions you still have.
Because they are noobs and this is one of only threads in 2g CL with any activity. Forum is dead and mods don't even come here anymore.
My door panels are in pristine condition, not even 1 scratch on either. I'll let them go for 5 grand, might need them later to meet racing class rules. Who knew a plastic panel was so important to safety heh.
Last edited by brian6speed; 03-06-2016 at 03:39 PM.
Like to slightly lower my 2003 CL-S type. Seen the stance of Lances Acura. A cheap way that does not effect handling, camber it tow.
Thanks for any help guys!
I used ingall and eibach, I don't think it was to pricey but it was the install that was a challenge.
It's wonderful to see the level of effort and dedication you put into this car. To see the amount of satisfaction the cl gives you considering the stable of cars you own and have owned is paramount.
Thanks. It is still my favorite. My girlfriend loves it the most as well. Now we fight over who drives it.
Because they are noobs and this is one of only threads in 2g CL with any activity. Forum is dead and mods don't even come here anymore.
My door panels are in pristine condition, not even 1 scratch on either. I'll let them go for 5 grand, might need them later to meet racing class rules. Who knew a plastic panel was so important to safety heh.
Did you end up selling them? I had a company restore the black part. Everything else was attainable.
Lance! Thanks for all the information! And thanks to all the guys who responded & dig the ride! I was a service manager for BMW and the parts manager for Honda before I went to grad school & law school. I had the pleasure of owning over 46 cars I repaired & resold during my college years!
While working on a Carbon Fiber Ducati in the mid 90's for Carl Fogerty, my boss would have me drive his Acura NSX to his house or garage. I never forgot the feeing of that distinctive gear box. Cut to a week ago when I found a 2003 CL 6 Speed S-type, one owner gem I purchased. It gave me & still does give me the feeing of driving that NSX for the first time...
It's a rarity to take such enormous pleasure just driving to work or the gym. So I don't think it's out of bounds to take delight in rebuilding a beautiful car to make it your own. Congrats Lance & all the guys who still dig turning a wrench or looking to squeeze a little extra horsepower out of that engine. I know this sounds a little touchy feely but its great to know you're out there. Also, that 3.2 engine has a good life span comparable to the old Lexus LS400's. Here in Nashville, we have a CL with 648k on it. No mods.
Hope you're keeping warm in South Florida!
Miss BCC! Keep warm y'all!
Thanks for the warmest compliments. I'm impressed by the amount of cars you've had, very long list.
Taking it to the track, not looking to blaze lap times, just speed safely and test the limits of the car. It's not an nsx, but it's a great car. I've got a 14 Lamborghini and while it's fun only on the track, everything is 500x more expensive when it breaks (everything breaks).
However, just because they are listed may not mean they are readily available and may have been discontinued. Sometimes these webstores don't update their parts lists in a timely manner.
they were all discontinued unfortunately, the good news is that tech has come a long way in restoration methods.
they were all discontinued unfortunately, the good news is that tech has come a long way in restoration methods.
since the original post regarding the non availability of new oem 2g cl door trim panels. i have had occasion to examine several (9) cl door trim panels at 5 local pick and pulls here in N/E Maryland. of the nine i examined, three, two black, and one gray, appear cosmetically, to be in "as new" condition, very clean, no warping, no physical damage of any kind, etc. most others were either accidentally or intentionally damaged. the local pick and pull sells either door panel for $20.00 each. i would be interested to know how much it cost you to have yours restored as procuring very nice donor car replacements may be a cheaper alternative. in general, these trim panels are robust, and here in the northeast, not impacted by the extreme heat experienced by those of you in the southeast and far west. procuring a suitable door trim panel here does not appear to be an obstacle. however, shipping cost may be. please let me know how much it cost to have yours restored.
since the original post regarding the non availability of new oem 2g cl door trim panels. i have had occasion to examine several (9) cl door trim panels at 5 local pick and pulls here in N/E Maryland. of the nine i examined, three, two black, and one gray, appear cosmetically, to be in "as new" condition, very clean, no warping, no physical damage of any kind, etc. most others were either accidentally or intentionally damaged. the local pick and pull sells either door panel for $20.00 each. i would be interested to know how much it cost you to have yours restored as procuring very nice donor car replacements may be a cheaper alternative. in general, these trim panels are robust, and here in the northeast, not impacted by the extreme heat experienced by those of you in the southeast and far west. procuring a suitable door trim panel here does not appear to be an obstacle. however, shipping cost may be. please let me know how much it cost to have yours restored.
The black part to restore locally was about 500/door. The parts I could replace were about 2k/door split between Acuraparts.com and dealer. Looks good I think
Unfortunate indeed. I see you are back on the forums for a visit. If possible and when time permits, post some updated pictures of your finished car!
Yessir. Car it's complete and enjoying it, I haven't been on any website much since traveling the past year, opened another business that had pulled my focus.
Bought a replacement exotic, it blew up so bought another, been messing with that car lately and the 300zxtt project consumes allot of time.
Yessir. Car it's complete and enjoying it, I haven't been on any website much since traveling the past year, opened another business that had pulled my focus.
Good to hear! Sounds like you have been busy and a positive cash flow is always a good thing.
IIRC, you were about to replace your transmission for the third time round about this time last year? Did you end up getting that new one from the dealer or ultimately opt for a rebuild? Never the less, it's evident that you are getting the reliability you sought now that you are taking it to the road course for a little play.
I had the dealer purchase one from Honda and did the Accord transmission. Cost was about the same because I couldn't return the one from the transmission place for a core.
^Excellent choice going with the Accord auto transmission.
A solid/proven option to replace the weak original CL gearbox.
thanks to the great advice on this website and feedback
the invaluable write ups documentation made it easy for the dealership to follow with flawless results
The car is still around. It was finished but it's constantly needing little tweaks, underneath color lighting and cameras due to bad installation by audio shop.
Replacing Eibach with Koni on the shocks. Will see if there's a difference
I have just recently discovered this thread, now that I am getting ready to overhaul my 2001 3.2 CL Type-S with 300,000+ miles. Mechanically, car is great shape but it needs to be repainted (clear coat has started peeling off), needs new driver seat cushion (still good but with leather cracks - likely repairable) - and a rubber seal that goes under the trunk lid. I think it needs a new "reading light" bulb on the passenger side too.
One thing I could not find anywhere is the "silver" plastic that goes around the shifter. It got scratched up over the years... Where can I find the replacement? Or should I just plan on having it repainted?
Under the hood, everything is up-to-date. I saw a post above that Superior Auto Body in Pinellas Park, FL does great work so I will call them for an estimate. My CL is black (Black Pearl) with gold kit emblems and red calipers (red calipers and rotors are brand new), original rims (I had them plastidipped in space grey which hides imperfections maybe add larger flakes to the paint, maybe go with a new paint color entirely...thinking either solid grey or racing green with flakes.
It should be a fun project but it won't start until September-October since I have other things I need to get done until then. In the meantime, I am compiling a list of things for the project and estimates.
The CL is a bullet-proof car and I don't intend to sell it. I have two other cars (08 Mercedes S65 AMG and 11 Shelby GT500) and I drive them equally often. They are all great cars but CL is the Rocketship. I love the supercharged V12 and V8 but I also love the amazing V6 and the firm ride in the CL. I drove it in such adverse conditions over the years (snow, flash flooding, rain, you name it) and the CL is among the best production cars ever made. It just never quits. In Germany they call them "unkaputtbar" (unbreakable) and that's basically what they are.
Lance, thank you for sharing the details - it is a great inspiration before embarking on an overhaul project.
Last edited by Acura32CLSRocketShip; 06-23-2019 at 08:23 PM.
Reason: add more details
If you're local I have literally an entire shed of boxes of parts. From headlights to interior pieces to random stuff. You're welcome to it. It's all pretty decent or new.
Ask for Ron at Superior/Carstar. He knows me very well, about 40 cars throughout the years including some nice restorations and Right out of body shop Acura dealer redone the fog lights, 2 year old paint Still in body ship but front end was totally repainted
exotics.
02-15-2016, 11:19 PM
Great work!
