kingofthestreets

So, I'm new here, but been a member of CRSX for a long time. Just had the idea of toying with an RDX, so... Has anyone seriously considered a manual conversion? Flame away!

Aman

I think it would be cool! If possible...

I think a hell of a lot of custom work would be needed... What transmission would you use? Something compatible with SH-AWD, but can also be hooked up to the RDX's 4-cylinder...

kingofthestreets

A CR-V 5-speed most likely. I heard that a normal K-series tranny won't bolt up to a k23 cause it's a freak. True? False? Any info would be super awesome!

mucter

I was told by the Acura dealer that the transmission in the RDX is from a V6, i.e. The RL. It's unlikely that you'll be able to use anything from a 4 cylinder with it. So I think you'd actually have the best luck trying to use the new 6mt out of the SHAWD TL. Expensive.

kingofthestreets

I've got a few things in mind. Say it could be done with an L4 tranny... I have a few ideas running through my head. Thoughts if you found a tranny that bolted up?

kingofthestreets

I'm seeing views, but no posts? Thoughts anyone?

CreoUCLA

With enough money anything is possible... But my question is why? You're probably going to spend a lot, especially on one-off parts since a MT was never an option.

I'm all for modding, but the RDX is at the end of its life cycle (before a major redesign) and we just barely got an aftermarket TMIC on the market. It doesn't strike me as a worthwhile endeavor, but it's your $...

kingofthestreets

I have a way around it... I'd like to pioneer this once I get the funds... But if it could be done, for a reasonable price, would you do it? And if so, what ratios and stuff would you use?

CreoUCLA

For me? No and for the following reasons;

1. Powertrain warranty.
2. I don't mod things that aren't easily reversible.
3. No cost/benefit for resale
4. My girlfriend (primary driver) doesn't drive MT.

kingofthestreets

For the hell of it, if you wanted to make the RDX more fun. Yes?
On a side note, teach that woman to drive stick! haha

CreoUCLA

Have you driven in L.A. traffic? But my answer would still be "no," because the RDX is already sporty enough for us, and we only have a compact SUV for the extra space for the kiddo and to make Costco runs easier.

kingofthestreets

Ever driven in Atlanta traffic? haha I guess I just have a weird thing for the RDX and I don't like automatic...

DRR98

My thoughts are what is the roi? Lets say it cost $5k, what do you get for your money as compared to other mods costing the same?

Seems the only benefit is you can say you have the only mt RDX in the world.

Who cares. Will it improve performance?

Want improved performance?

Go LSx TT RDX, with Cyclone or Typhoon drive train.

It would still be the only one in the world, and make ~ 600 whp.

At least you'd get some bang for your buck.

kingofthestreets

Now where is the fun in using a v8? Everyone swaps LSx's these days...

DRR98

...Really?

In an RDX, show me one.

The fun would be in that you got performance gains vs none w/mt swap.

kingofthestreets

It's not that hard. Would be better with a different engine/better turbo.

JCRDX11

Why don't you be a pioneer and find if the AEM FIC would work on our cars.
This will make your RDX more fun to drive and a big benefit for all of us as well!

kingofthestreets

I've been doing a lot of research on a standalone ECU, I doubt it would work, because the SH-AWD system is controlled by that and the VSA ECU. My idea is, get the stock controls on a piggyback, and hook it up to a standalone. Logically, I can see it makes sense, but I'm not a programmer, so I have no idea if that'd work.

kingofthestreets

If anyone can clear this up for me it'd be great. SH-AWD is controlled by the ECU, which controls the rear differential and... Something in the transmission?

kingofthestreets

Bump for any info...

BigHatch

prob shift points and stuff like that. Hondata raises the redline in Sport mode 200RPM

kingofthestreets

If that is the case, using an adapted CR-V 5-speed should still allow it to have SH-AWD correct?

BigHatch

Not sure. The CRV has a different kind of AWD system.

kingofthestreets

It has real-time AWD. Which is basically an uncomputerized version of SH-AWD. SH-AWD is controlled by the ecu and makes changes via electromagnetic clutches in the differential to change the torque split. I don't think the real-time AWD even changes the torque split at all, but then again. Not a scholar on the subject. It's not too hard changing the rear differential, just need to figure out how to change the F/R torque split, and the torque split between the front wheels.

Mr Marco

Without even google‘n this BS^, you would get rid of the SH-AWD system? What?

1. Why you would want to spend thousands of Dollars on a manual conversion for this top heavy SUV is beyond comprehension.
2. The RDX & CRV AWD operating systems and drivetrains are not compatible.

SAVE YOUR MONEY

kingofthestreets

Right now, this is a for-shits-and-giggles-can-it-be-done thread. If you don't have any real input, don't post.

Mr Marco

If you can't take the criticism, I recommend that you not put statements like this in your first post:

kingofthestreets

Just say it's a bad idea, no need to say what I said it total bullshit.

CreoUCLA

The overwhelming issue with this thread is that there is no one on here that has attempted a MT conversion on an RDX (since it was never outfitted with a manual to begin with). Asking questions like, "this should work, right?" is going to end up as pure conjecture and speculation.

While Mr Marco and I think this would not be a worthwhile exercise from a cost-benefit standpoint, it's your $$$. The RDX barely has an ECU reflash option, no turbo upgrades, and finally an aftermarket TMIC upgrade after 6 years... The demand hasn't been strong for these, and would be near nonexistent for a MT swap.

If this is really something you want to attempt, you're going to have to be the one to try it and report back what you find...

kingofthestreets

The purpose of this thread is to gather any information that would be helpful in the process. I've got a pretty good idea of how it can be done, and with a little fabrication, it's possible. The real issue is electronics, which is a huge problem. I really wish there was a way to run k-pro with an RDX.

CreoUCLA

+1

kingofthestreets

I also wish there was a piggyback that could control SH-AWD and then you could run whatever standalone you wanted. That, would be great.

kingofthestreets

I'm guessing this is all the input I'm gonna get then?

bluecarbonfiber

why not do a better TQ converter? it will help in many areas.. i know in the TSX community Feels makes a race TQ converter that helps with the transfer rate and those who have spent well over 4grand for it say its comparible to a stick with the bonus of being an auto.. its less head ache then doing manual and you still get to use the paddle shifters =)

mucter

I might have to look into that if FP ever comes out.

BigHatch

Hmmm... that could be a nice upgrade...depending on how much it changes the feel. pricey though if it were simmilar. Would make the paddles a whole lot nicer.

mucter

What about this one: http://www.importperformancetrans.co...ter.-1732.html

I put a call into them to find out if it'll work with our cars. Should hear back shortly.

mucter

Ok talked to their service guy over at IPT.

He said it won't change the way the car shifts at all. What it will change is how the car will launch, and how quickly it takes off when you put your foot down from a roll (WAY more responsive). He also said it's virtually unbreakable... I gave the example of AWD boosted torque launches from a dig at the track.... he said, "you'll break your tranny or drive line before you'll be able to break this converter."

The catch is, you'd have to send in your stock one to have it modified. Their core service won't work for us because they don't have them for our car. But they're expert enough on how to rebuild them with good parts, he didn't even hesitate when I asked if it could be done.

So.... this is definitely an option for those that want to bullet proof that part of the tranny down the road. Much more affordable than that Feels setup too.

Now if we just had FlashPro... lol.

mucter

To read about this in an RSX, check out this link: forums. club rsx .com/showthread.php?t=401785 (sorry for the broken link but I guess club rsx is a naughty word on azine, stupid drama)

CreoUCLA

...and a turbo upgrade.