So, the hubs & i are already proud 3g TL owners (1 modded & 1 stock) and have decided to take on building an RSX (yessss, finally!).

Now, the question is, anything in particular to keep my eye out for? (i.e.- certain year, any known issues, etc?). I know lots about the TLs, and his specialty has been honda builds in the past... builds/modifications can be very subjective i know but i just want to make sure that i get the most bang for the buck since this RSX venture is going into new territory for me lol

Thanks!!

 

Go for an 05 or 06 S model.

 

Changes from 04 to 05 models (Type S and base)Revised suspension tuning for increased handling precision and a smoother ride
Ride height reduced by 7 mm (0.3 in)
Optimized damper and spring settings
Firmer stabilizer bars (front and rear for Type-S, front for RSX)
Bushings at suspension installation points were optimized
Inversely wound front coil springs
Refined steering system for enhanced feel and quicker response
Swifter steering ratio
Stiffer steering column
Pump flow increased by seven percent
Kickback reduction valve
Optimized braking system for enhanced stopping power and feel
Pedal stroke decreased
Master cylinder diameter increased
Brake pedal toe rigidity increased
Larger diameter 17-inch sport design alloy wheels and 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires
Body rigidity increased 15 percent in front and 21 percent in the rear through the application of reinforcements at key areas
Vehicle noise and vibrations reduced
Engine damper added to front subframe to reduce engine rocking and vibration transmitted from the engine to the cabin
Insulation material added at key points on doors and roof to reduce road noise
Side-mirror gaps sealed and weather strip added
New front and rear bumper designs
Redesigned headlight and taillight assemblies
Restyled signature 5-sided Acura grille
Redesigned side sill garnish
Four new exterior colors: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic, Blaze Orange Metallic
Freshened interior design
Deeply bolstered front seats with thicker cushions
New chrome and titanium-look accents
Meter faces changed from metallic to white
2005 & 2006 RSX Type-S additional enhancements:
The engine intake and exhaust modifications that boost the power of the Type-S models to 210 hp (157 kW) at 7800 rpm, compared to 200 hp (150 kW) at 7400 rpm on the previous model.
The '06 Type S model has the same bhp as the '05 model. SAE HP measurement ratings changed from '05 to '06.
Higher performance camshafts sourced from the Type-R engine
Air intake duct enlarged for increased air flow
Larger diameter exhaust pipes to increase exhaust flow
Catalytic converter optimized to reduce exhaust back pressure
Larger diameter front strut tower bar
Bushings replaced by bearings on strut mount
Deck lid spoiler
6-speed transmission optimized with a lower final gear ratio for quicker acceleration and carbon synchronizers replacing brass on 5th and 6th gears for a smoother shift feel
Gear Ratios for the 2005 & 2006 revision
Gear Ratios 1st Gear - 3.267 2nd Gear - 2.130 3rd Gear - 1.517 4th Gear - 1.147 5th Gear - 0.921 6th Gear - 0.738 Reverse - 3.583 Final Drive - 4.765

 

Things to look for:
Crunchy 2nd & 3rd gear
Rust around sunroof
Kpro is much cheaper for 02-04 Type-S, 05-06 requires an 02-04 ECU
torn engine mounts, particularly the front
OPDS (passenger airbag sensor) failure
05-06 may have leaky taillight seals

On mine-
120k miles:
primary O2 sensor failure

150k miles:
radiator had cracks and had to be replaced
brake calipers were not retracting completely at around 150k miles and had to be rebuilt/replaced
water pump leaking and was replaced
tie rod ends worn out and replaced

Still going at 194k.

 

I have rust spots around the sunroof, and everytime I drive in the rain my carpets get wet which I've heard is because of leaky taillights seals. Mine only has 74000km

 

keep an eye out for any untasteful mods

 

Just wondering...what is the best year for the Type S? I've read 2002-2004.

Anyone put a type-S engine/exhaust into a base RSX? I've got a 2002 base in great condition, but want the performance engine...debating whether better to sell the base and buy a type-s or upgrade the base?

Any success with non-Honda engines?