Budget K-Swap Build for My '97 EK

[Robert]

Project Goal: Budget K-Swap Build for My '97 EK – Planning Phase

Hey everyone,

I’m starting to put together a long-term plan for my 1997 Honda Civic EK, and I’ve decided to aim for a budget-friendly K-swap as my starter build. I don’t have a set timeline yet, but this is something I want to work toward steadily. My goal is to keep it affordable, reliable, and plug-and-play friendly — with room to upgrade down the road (whether that’s NA tuning or boost).

Here’s the plan I’ve put together so far:

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Engine & Transmission

• Engine: K24A4 or K24A8 (CR-V/Accord) – great torque, low cost
• Transmission: K20A2 or K20Z1 (RSX Type-S) – better gearing than stock K24 trans
• Clutch/Flywheel: Stock K-series or lightened upgrade
• Optional: K20 oil pump swap if I go higher RPM later

Mounts, Axles, Shifter

• Mount Kit: Hasport EKK2 (for K20 trans) or Innovative for budget
• Axles: K-swap specific axles (Hasport, Insane Shafts, etc.)
• Shifter Setup: Hybrid Racing or K-Tuned shifter box + cables

Wiring & ECU

• Harness: Plug-and-play from Rywire or K-Tuned
• ECU: 02–04 RSX Type-S ECU (Hondata KPro ready)
• Tuning: KPro v4 for full control, or KTuner for a cheaper start

Miscellaneous Parts

• K-swap throttle cable
• Custom intake and exhaust header for EK chassis
• Fuel line adapter kit
• Radiator hoses + cooling solution
• Speed sensor adapter (if using newer trans)

Estimated Budget:
Rough range: $3,800–$5,500 depending on parts sourced and tuning path.

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Future Upgrades I’m Thinking About:

• K20 head swap or K20Z3 full build
• Turbo kit once the base swap is dialed in
• ITBs if I stay NA
• LSD and brake upgrades once power increases

I’ll keep this thread updated as I gather parts or make decisions. If anyone’s done a similar swap or has advice for sourcing parts on a budget — I’m all ears. Would love to get feedback from others who started with a basic K24 build and upgraded over time.

Thanks for reading,

 

1997 RHD EK-3 Civic Ferio

[Robert]

K24 Engine & Transmission Comparison – Best Options for Swap Builds

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K24 Engine Comparison

• K24A2 (06–08 Acura TSX)
  - 205 hp / 164 lb-ft
  - True i-VTEC (intake + exhaust cams)
  - Best all-motor factory K24
  - Great high-RPM potential
• K24A2 (04–05 TSX)
  - 200 hp / 166 lb-ft
  - Slightly milder cams vs. 06–08
• K24Z7 (12–15 Civic Si)
  - 201 hp / 170 lb-ft
  - R40 head with i-VTEC (intake only)
  - Good stock power but limited aftermarket head support
• K24A4 / K24A8 (Accord, CR-V, Element)
  - 160–166 hp / 161–162 lb-ft
  - Budget-friendly
  - Best torque-per-dollar
  - Great for K20 head swap or boost

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K-Series Transmission Comparison

• K20Z1 (05–06 RSX Type-S)
  - Close-ratio gears + factory LSD
  - Ideal for NA or track builds
  - Best all-around performance trans
• K20A2 (02–04 RSX Type-S)
  - Close-ratio gears, no LSD (can add one)
  - Great for NA street builds
• K20Z3 (06–11 Civic Si)
  - Close-ratio + factory LSD
  - Uses digital VSS (requires converter in older chassis)
• K24A2 (TSX)
  - Taller gears, good for turbo/street
  - No LSD
• K20A3 (Base RSX, 02–06)
  - Budget option
  - Long gears, no LSD, weaker overall
• Accord / CR-V / Element (K24A4/A8)
  - Very tall gears
  - Good for turbo (helps with traction)
  - Not ideal for NA builds