Rep Power: 0

Currenty have a 98 ex AT coupe, all stock. I would like a little more power and better handling , just not sure where to start.
What I had in mind: cold air intake
exhaust /w removal of CC no emmision tests here
strut bars
possably lowering an inch or so

Not sure about an engine swap, I would prefer to keep the AT.
Is an under-drive pully really worth it or noticeable?
I had a buddy of mine tell me I could do a brake mod, from an acura to my honda to get all discs. Can it be done? If so what all would I need and how?


I know if I want to keep the remote locks if I change HU's I have to keep the stock one in the dash somewhere, but what about the oem cd player? Is there a replacement pocket I can get?

I'm sure I will think of more questions later, but as I said this is just a start.


Thanks for the input.

 
Rep Power: 245

My thoughts on your thoughts...

CAI - You would only sense an improvement of 5HP at most at high rpms.

Removing the Cat - Better to go with a high flow cat but it doesn't make a big difference especially if you're not swapping out the entire exhaust. Also, it would violate federal laws to remove it and really, why be a polluter?

Handling: Strut bars will not add noticable improved handling on a daily driver but a 1" drop will. Try wider high performance tires. I run 205/50-15s. Instant better handling and easy to do.

An engine swap is a major undertaking unless you have someone else do it. Personally, your biggest gain would be to ditch the AT. You can do a conversion but the smart way to do it is to sell your AT car and buy one with a stick. Usually the AT cars sell for more than one with a stck so you might actually make money!

I don't recommend an underdrive pulley. The difference is minimal and most aftermarket crank pulleys do not have harmonic dampeners so you'll be increasing the chances of premature bearing failure.

Brake conversion: I thought the EX already had rear disc brakes (maybe it's just the 99-00)? If not, the most common swap is swap in the rear trailing arms from a 99-00 Civic Si. You'll get some improvement in stopping power but most do it for looks!