donchicago48

I'm in the midst of making various modifications and repairs to my '99 TL w/o NAV. As the original owner, I've driven my TL 201K generally happy miles. The 4-speed AT needed a rebuild at about 120 K miles. The engine is on it's third timing belt, second alternator, and is beginning to use a bit more oil than I'd like. The car's body is in good condition for its age. I've replaced the original shocks/springs with KYB AGX shocks and Eibach Springs. I'm also replacing the upper and lower front control arms, steering knuckles, front hubs/wheel bearings and previously bought a set of replica '02 TL-S 17" wheels w/ Michelin 215/50 tires. While the front end is apart, I decided to upgrade the original front Calipers to '05-'10 RL KB1 calipers, Fastbrakes adapter brackets, with RB 12'8" rotors and EBC Redstuff pads.

It all started when my fuel tank began leaking and I embarked on replacing the tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, and repairing the EVAP Emission Control System. I also have a pair of new stock mufflers that I bought a while back but never installed. The original mufflers are corroding in Chicago area winters as are all the exhaust flanges and hardware. After removing the exhaust so I could drop the rear subframe, I decided to replace the stock exhaust system with Manzo 6-2-1 Headers, a new Catalytic Converter, Bosch O2 Sensors, and a TrueBendz 2.5" SS tubing kit with Magnaflow mufflers.

After 16 years and 200K miles, the performance of the stock J32a1 engine isn't as thrilling as it once was. I've learned quite a bit of useful information here at Acurazine and am considering an engine swap to boost performance while I'm working on this project. I've read a few other threads covering this swap and have a number of questions that weren't covered in much detail.

donchicago48

I found http://www.ebay.com/itm/Honda-Odyssey-Engine-J35A3-3-5L-Vtec-V6-OEM-Replacement-SOHC-24-Valve-Motor-JDM-/171873289823?hash=item280472465f&vxp=mtr. While looking at the photos, I observed that the engine wiring harness is cut, along with most other hoses, etc. In the actual engine photos, it appears all belt-driven accessories are intact. There is a video of a full 6 cylinder compression test on the actual engine for sale. I'm not sure which year the engine is, but will contact seller tomorrow to discuss details before deciding whether to buy this engine or find another one.

donchicago48

After further review, it appears that a 2001 J35A3 or a 2002 and up J35A4 engine rated at 240 HP would be more desirable than the earlier 210 HP version.

donchicago48

One question that comes to mind is whether the Odyssey or MDX engine will clear the hood on the 99 2G TL. As I understand it, some J35A models have a spacer between the upper and lower IM to lengthen the intake runners. That might make the engine too tall for the hood to close.

thisaznboi88

iTrader: (7)

take off the spacer and it should clear. The spacer eats up 2inches.

donchicago48

Does anyone know which J35A engines have a 2-stage intake manifold? If the engine I get has this desirable feature, and I stick with the J32A1 ECU and wiring harness, I'll have to rig a means of controlling the 2-stage IM based on engine speed, load or air flow. I'd guess engine speed would be the most available and straightforward signal to monitor.

donchicago48

I can answer this question now that I just found this thread

donchicago48

Here are links for some items mentioned in this thread:
99-03 Acura TL Dual Exhaust Tubing - 2.5 Inch Stainless
Magnaflow 2.5" Stainless Straight-Through Muffler

donchicago48

Am I correct in assuming the manifold spacer is added to heavier vehicles to move torque peak to lower engine speeds?