FAQ - Del Sol General Info and Questions
Plastic_Fork
10-22-2004, 10:17 PM
Here you will find answers to the most commonly asked questions about del Sol's. Whether it be about performance, maintenance, or aesthetic improvement. Will we tell you what body kit is the best? NO. Will you come out knowing more than when you started? Hopefully. We as a group strive to provide the most accurate up to date information we can provide. As it goes, you know the saying about opinions. Your taste is ultimately what matters in the modification of your car. If you want a fast car or a show car, make your own decision. We are not here to be mommy and daddy for you. Make use of the search feature of the board. You will be shocked to find out that you are not the first to ever ask a question. If you don’t like someone’s answer to your question keep it to yourself, don’t start a flame war. The moderators always win those (they have a banning button).
This is an internet web forum. Everyone is here due to choice, if you don’t like it don’t log on. It's that easy. If you don’t like someone, you can put them on your ignore list. No one cares who is being mean to you.
On to the excitement!
Information Taken from Team Del Sol
http://www.teamdelsol.com/
========================
Known as the Honda CRX del Sol, it was in international production for 8 years from 1992 to 1998. The Civic del Sol, as it was called in North America, was available for 6 years from 1993 to 1997.
The US models are: S, Si, and VTEC being the top of the line model. Note that both Si and VTEC models had a VTEC engine. However, the Si had a single overhead cam (SOHC), while the VTEC line had dual overhead cams (DOHC) and more horsepower.
The Japanese models are: VXi, VGi, and SiR being the top of the line model.
In Europe they made the ESi and the VTi, being the top of the line model.
Del Sol specs - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Specs/)
Del Sol Colors - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Colors/)
Del Sol Engine Info - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Engines/)
STANDARD ON ALL MODELS
The del Sol was always a "hard top convertible" with a lightweight targa top you can put easily take off and put in the trunk. The trunk comes with a liftable roof holder, so you can get under it easily to get stuff out of the trunk. Also standard were dual airbags (93's only had a single drivers-side airbag), four-wheel double wishbone suspension, front stabilizer bar, power side windows, power rear window, an adjustable steering column, tachometer, digital clock, and rear window defroster.
The Si model has additional standard goodies such as an AM/FM stereo cassette, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, power-assisted rack and pinion steering, 14-inch alloy wheels, dual power mirrors, power door locks (95-97) and cruise control.
The VTEC offers these standard exclusive features: an anti-lock braking system (ABS); larger front stabilizer bar as well as a rear stabilizer bar (exclusive to the VTEC), and larger performance oriented tires.
How many del Sols were sold in the US?
1993 - 25,748
1994 - 21,075
1995 - 14,021
1996 - 8,489
1997 - 5,603
Total - 74,936
Many thanks to Big B (Brian Price) for getting us this information.
Information Taken from Automotive Tech
(Del Sol forum - Home of Team Del Sol)
http://www.automotivetech.org/
===========================
Del Sol Model Information '93-'97 for the USDM market.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following information will tell you what was standard equipment for each years models.
This Information was gathered from Factory Honda Model Year Brochures.
1993 Civic Del Sol - Standard Features/Equipment:
S:
Includes standard: Removable roof panel, dual manual remote control mirrors (painted body color), auxillary lights, full wheel covers (13 x 5J), driver's side air bag (SRS), impact-absorbing body-colored bumpers, 3-point seat belts, power side windows with auto "down", power rear window, tachometer, resetable trip odometer, adjustable steering column, center armrest with storage compartment and beverage holder, audio system cover, reclining seat backs, center locking rear storage compartments, digital quartz clock, coin box, remote fuel filler door release with lock, trunk/cargo area light, 2-speed intermittent wipers, trunk open warning light, rear window "down" warning light, rear window defroster with timer, in-trunk roof storage system, high-mount brake light, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, all-season radial tires (P175/70/R13 82S), 1.5 litre 102 horsepower SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI), 5-speed manual transmission (standard) or optional 4-speed automatic with electronically controlled lockup torque converter.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Captiva Blue (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
Adds: Dual remote-control power mirrors, cruise control, power-assisted steering, front 21mm stabilizer bar, color-keyed center seat stripe, dual warning horns, low-profile 14" all-season radial tires (P185/60/R14 82H), alloy wheels (14 x 5 1/2 JJ), 4-wheel disc brakes, 1.6 litre 125 horsepower SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) with Variable Valve Timing (VTEC), front chin spoiler***. Also a special model was made this year to introduce the del Sol in Samba Green only with optional alloy wheel painted same color as car along with special striping (800 models made nationwide according to a magazine article).
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Samba Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Captiva Blue (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1994 Civic Del Sol - Added as standard features:
S:
Dual front air bags - with this came a change to the dash with a smaller glove box.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Captiva Blue (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
AM/FM high power stereo with cassette (4 X 20 Watt).
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Samba Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Captiva Blue (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
VTEC:
1.6 litre 160 Horsepower DOHC VTEC engine (manual transmission only) B16A3/B16A2 OBDI, front stabilizer bar (24mm), rear stabilizer bar (15mm), all season tires (P195/60/R14 85V), ABS (Canada models only), upper ("performance bar") and lower front strut braces, bigger front brakes (10.3 on VTEC vs 9.4 inches on Si), larger brake master cylinder and brake booster.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1995 Del Sol - Added as standard features (extended model year run, September 1995 - January 1996):
S:
Cylinder protector for lock cylinders, adjustable center console vent (driver's side only), remote fuel door and trunk openers with lock on gas door only, low fuel warning light, no longer classified as a Civic del Sol (the "Civic" decal on the rear left panel was removed), and upgraded the roof seals to stop roof leaks at the front corners.
Exterior colors: Paradise Blue Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Milano Red.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
Power door locks.
Exterior colors: Paradise Blue Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Milano Red, Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
VTEC:
ABS added as standard feature.
Exterior colors: Paradise Isle Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1996 Del Sol - Added as standard features (short model year run, February 1996 - September 1996):
S:
Loss of auxillary lights, redesigned front bumper (changed the length to 157.7" from 157.3"), front stabilizer bar (21mm), changed to OBDII for engine management, 1.6 litre engine added, 106 HP up from 102 HP before, change in color on dash bezel from black to a dark gray, button at the end of e-brake handle now finished with a chrome tip, headlight-on reminder.
Exterior colors: Vogue Silver Metallic, Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Si:
Front stabilizer bar (22mm), rear stabilizer bar (13mm), 1.6 litre engine now 127 HP up from 125 HP, lost the matching body color stripe on the seat, also new material used for the seat cover.
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
VTEC:
Lowered RPM red line to 8,000rpm from 8,200rpm, changed air intake hose (rubber part to air box) to the same one used on the Si (smaller size), OBDII B16A2 block used.
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
1997 Del Sol - Added as standard features (last year made):
S:
None
Exterior colors: Vogue Silver Metallic, Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Si:
None
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
VTEC:
None
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Accessories/Options:
Rear wing, AM/FM high power stereo with cassette player, AM/FM high power stereo with CD player, air conditioning, 4-speaker system, premium speaker system.
Some Dealers added Options:
Pin stripes, leather seats, optional alloy wheels available both in 13" and 14" sizes, power antenna, tweeter kit, floor mats (zig-zag: gray or color matched, rainbow: two types), special seat belt harness for child seat, front nose mask ("car bra" - two styles: one for '93 - '95's and one for '96 & '97's), mud guards, anti-theft deterrent system, seat covers, CD changer, exhaust finisher (tip), leather wrap for the steering wheel.
(Note some of these options may have been available from the factory assembly line, it didn't state which ones, just stated that they were options for the car.)
*** Note on the 'front chin spoiler' that is listed as a standard equipment on the '93 Si model (list in the factory Honda brochure for '93 Civic del Sol). I personally have never seem one standard or a listed part number for the del Sol ('SR2' which is part of the part number for the Sol's), just the Civic factory lip added from the '93-'95 Civic (part number 71110-SR3-000) that people have added to their cars. Could it be that Honda America was going to add the Civic Lip as standard equipment to the del Sol? - Geo
I'd like to thank everyone here for all their help on the information to put this together. Comments are welcome and any necessary changes that need to be made to present the correct information.
Geo
President
Team Sol of Washington (http://www.teamdelsolwa.com/)
Del Sol FAQ on Automotive Tech:
-------------------------------
PAINT CODES
___________
• Cypress Green • G82P
• Captiva Blue Pearl • B62P
• Milano Red • R81
• Granada Black • NH503P
• Frost White • NH538
• Isle Green • G71P
• Paradise Blue/Green • BG33P
• Samba Green • GY15P
• Vogue Silver • NH550M
Frequently Asked Questions
__________________________
Before you work on your car by Manny:
Manuals are made and provided with products for a reason. Yes sometimes the instructions are vague. This is where your automotive knowledge kicks in so you can figure it out. Some people know more about mechanics whereas others' expertise is electrical.
Here are a few things you can do to increase your general autmotive knowledge:
1. Read the owners's manual front to back at least twice. If you don't have one, borrow one, or buy one from helm.inc. You will learn about your car, maintenance schedules, fluid capicities, and more.
2. I highly recommend having at LEAST a Haynes manual for 92-95 Civic & del Sol. They're $9 at Discount Auto Parts last time I checked. Read through it front to back at least twice as well. I like the Haynes because they go through the steps so that the basic home mechanic can understand. Also, they provide good information about how major systems of the car work. It also has wiring diagrams for the Civic and delSol.
Again, maintenance schedules, fluid capacities, torque specifications, troubleshooting guide, ECM codes. After that you should get a Factory Service Manual. That has partnumbers and everything!
3. Go to the automotive section of www.howstuffworks.com and go through basically every article in the "under the hood" section. Key ones are:
-An engine camshaft
-How Anti-Lock Brakes work
-How automatic trannies work
-How automotive ignition systems work
-How brakes work
-How camshafts work
-How car computers work
-How car engines work
-How clutches work
-How differentials work
-How disc brakes work
-How drum brakes work
-How fuel injection systems work
-How gears work
-How horsepower works
-How manual trannies work
-How power brakes work
-How wire, fuses, and connectors work
-Inline Four-Cylinder Engine
After those you can branch out to the other secctions in Auto stuff.
4. Subscribe to Sport Compact Car. In my opinion, this magazine has helped me learn sooo much. The technobable column and how-to's especially.
I REALLY need to make a database of all my issues so that I can reference specific articles.
5. Some websites that you can check out to learn more about Honda's are:
Honda Life
http://www.hondalife.com *Articles are great (we need more!!)
Honda Performance
http://www.honda-perf.org *Hybrid especially
The Temple of VTEC
http://www.vtec.net
6. Some Honda books you should get:
Honda & Acura Performance Handbook
Honda/Acura Performance
High Peformance Honda Builder's Handbook vol 1 & 2
Civic Duty
Honda Dream
Honda Civic Guide
*These are available through your bookstore or here:
http://www.creverything.com/cr-books-1.html
So, hit the books and happy learning.
*_*
Tips
____
1. I want to clean my engine, but its hot and dirty. What can I use?
This is the easiest thing EVER to do. You just need a few items: Simple Green (regular or automotive) Full Strength (do not dilute). A garden hose + water. Rag and a stiff brush (small and large) Here's the deal:
1) Warm up the car, let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the fan kicks on. Turn it off.Disconnect the battery Just so the grease can warm up a bit.
2) Cover your distributor and battery with a plastic bag and hold that secure with a rubber band. (just as a precaution, I do not use one)
3) Give the engine bay, hood, wherever a light spraying with water.
4) Spray, douse, cover whatever you want to call it the engine bay in a liberal coating of Simple Green. Let it sit for a few minutes. Begin wiping with a wet rag, scrub sort of good. Until youre happy; applying simple green as needed for the stubborn stuff. Scrub scrub away. Use the small and large brushes for hard to reach places.
5) Clean everything you can see. If its got dirt wipe it, brush it spray it until you see paint.
6) Ok you're done. Are you sufficiently happy that its clean? Good. Remove the plastic bags. Now close the hood and start the car, once again, let it run. Let it get warm. Leave it running, let it dry. Yes you will see steam coming out from underneath. Don't sweat it. Its Ok.
7) Wipe off the battery and distibutor with the wet rag. Just get it clean. Now detail the engine. An engine dresser will work great. You can even find a belt dresser at an auto parts store.
8)Tada you're done. WOW look at it bling. Your hard work has paid off. Now, keep it clean.
Now that the physical motor is clean, how about the internal parts
I'm too lazy to type this out. There is one great and wonderful product out there. Sea Foam; a marine engine cleaner. Here is all you need to know:
Sea Foam site (http://www.seafoamsales.com/motorTuneUpTechGas.htm)
How-to Use it (http://w3.one.net/~roz/cars/z28/seafoam.html)
2. I dont want an exhaust that sounds like a fart cannon, which one should I get?
Get one made for the del Sol, or 92-95 EG6 HB (some work needed to fit) and go here http://www.listentomyexhaust.com/
for some sounds of exhausts.
3. My engine makes a noise, what could it be?
My engine makes noise from the time I start it until I shut it off. What kind of noise? What are you doing when it begins and what makes it stop? Be specific, vague questions like that make for a fun time.
4. What sparks plugs can I use and what is a heat range?
NGK are the best plugs for your Honda period. They're OEM do you really think Honda doesn't know what it's doing? Here is a quick info shot on spark plugs:
For your S model:
ZFR5F-11 OEM normal heat range
ZFR6F-11 OEM one range cooler
For your Si:
ZFR5J-11 OEM Normal heat range
ZFR6J-11 OEM one range cooler
For your VTEC:
PFR6L-13 OEM Normal heat range
PFR7L-13 OEM One range cooler
What is the firing order for a Honda D or B series motor and what is the sequence for the distributor?
http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8firing.bmp
5. Where can I buy a shop manual for my car?
Get a Helms manual. Sure they're expensive but who do you think Honda gets them from?
Call (800) 782-4356, visit www.helminc.com, or email feedback@helminc.com.
Cost $62 For Shop Manual
$39- $44 for Electrical Troubleshooting Manual ( ETM )
$22- $27 For Owners Manual
$37 for body repair manual
6. How do I make my car fast?
How fast do you want to go? How much money are you willing to spend? Are you looking for a certain amount of power? Once again, help us help you. As Microsoft said “Where do you want to go today?”
7.Why don’t I have any torque?
Welcome to owning a Honda. The saying is true, well sort of. There is NO replacement for displacement. That is more than true when it comes to torque. But a blower/turbo can quickly remedy that. If you want to know more, see the above question.
8. My engine idles erratically, what can I do?
Glad you asked, mainly because someone else did the typing for me. Id like to thanks Adam a.k.a. pills. Here is Adam's article like I said earlier you can find a lot just SEARCHING. And once again, Hondaswap to the rescue.
9. I can’t find del Sol parts online. Help me!
That is a problem we have run into time and time again. The del Sol gets no respect from companies. As a general rule: If it will fit a 92-95 model EG Civic or a 94-01 model DC Integra (minus Type R); it will fit the motor/chassis of the del Sol. Be sure to match engines when looking for engine parts. If you’re not sure, ASK. It doesn’t hurt.
10. What engine do I have?
A four cylinder? U.S. Models only. Please ask for foreign models
Year/Model/Engine
_________________
93-95 S • D15B7 • 1.5L SOHC 16-valve (OBDI)
93-95 Si • D16Z6 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDI)
94-95 VTEC • B16A3/B16A2 • 1.6L DOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDI)
96-97 S • D16Y7 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve (OBDII)
96-97 Si • D16Y8 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDII)
96-97 VTEC • B16A2 • 1.6 DOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDII)
11. Where can I find general information on my engine, transmission, throttle body and other items?
http://www.google.com - It's called search and learn. No really. For a great site with a ton of resources visit
http://www.hondaswap.com/reference/index.php - you can find out information on your engine specs, gear ratios, and other exciting things.
12. What size wheels fit my car?
First off know your STOCK size before upgrading.
S: 175/70/13
SI: 185/60/14
VTEC: 195/60/14
Your lug pattern is the Honda standard 4 x 100.
13. What size tires can I fit on my new wheels and know how fast I am really traveling?
Well the Miata guys gave us something for once besides a hard time.
http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html
Take into account that this is for fresh tires. Tread wear will throw off the value. As always its best to drive at a reasonable speed with traffic in mind.
For the lazy kids who don't know how to search or use www.google.com:
RECOMMENDED TIRE SIZES FOR THE DEL SOL
NOTE: All actual speeds based on a speedo reading of 60 MPH on STOCK wheels/tires. IE, when the speedo reads 60 on the new wheels/tires you'll be going the listed 'actual speed' below.
STOCK:
13" wheels: 175/70-13
14" wheels: 185/60-14
AFTERMARKET
15" wheels:
195/50-15: .13% larger, actual speed is 60.08
205/50-15: 1.83% larger, actual speed is 61.10
16" wheels:
205/45-16: 1.83% larger, actual speed is 61.58
205/40-16: .86% smaller, actual speed is 59.48
17" wheels:
205/40-17: 3.44% larger, actual speed is 62.06
205/35-17: .01% smaller, actual speed is 59.99
18" wheels:
215/35-18: 5.32% larger, actual speed is 63.19
215/30-18: 1.85% larger, actual speed is 61.11
And finally... other tire sizes are possible, but not recommended. I take no responsibility for the stupidity of others.
14. I want to know more about suspension. Where do I go?
You're in luck. We happen to have some guru’s on this (www.automotivetech.org) board. Just venture out into the Suspension forum and learn all you can. Read the articles, I guarantee you will not be let down. If something is difficult for you to understand/grasp, it can always be broken down.
15. I want to put some gauges in my car. Where can I mount them?
Anywhere you want really. All it takes is a little work and some ingenuity. Without it though, you do have a few options.
blownsol@aol.com had some custom 3-guage A-pillar replacement pods made. They’re great quality and OEM color/texture. But if you don’t want one of those, you can use the dual pod for a 92-95 civic. Or you can custom mold single pods to the pillar.
16. Ok you just said EDM and JDM, what does that mean?
EDM means European Domestic Market and JDM means Japanese Domestic Market. USDM means United States Domestic Market. It basically tells you where the manufacturer intended for the car to go. Its obvious, if you don’t understand where they were meant to go don’t ask, please!
17. So what different things happened with the EDM and JDM del Sols that we were ripped off with?
Wow the list is quite large. Some of the major things:
JDM: one-piece headlights. Door handle map lights. H4 beam Auxillary lights. Transtop (semi-automated targa storage in the trunk). Visors of course. License plate fillers. RHD. Automatic climate control system. Headlight washers.
EDM: Two piece headlights (glass) EDM Aero Kit (lip, sides, rear…btw its discontinued) H4 glass Aux lights. Rear mist light. Visors again. Heated seats. Headlight washers. Map lights. Adjustable headlights (up and down). And the 1998 Special Edition Motegi and Daytona model del Sols.
Motegi: here (http://images.fotki.com/v1/photos/1/14825/57195/montegi2-vi.jpg) and here (http://images.fotki.com/v1/photos/1/14825/57195/montegi1-vi.jpg).
Daytona: here (http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8seats-vi.jpg), here (http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8cockpit-vi.jpg), and here (http://www.brandonlynch.com/galleries/gallery5/images/silvermohrs92.jpg).
*note the body kit was not stock for the Daytona*
18. I hear water/sloshing noises when I turn, what can I do?
Turn your car into a shammy cloth? No thats not it, here is a detailed fix for that http://www.elneckio.com/stuff/crx/s...lpipeclean.html. Or you can do as one Soler said (he's a Brit, watch out) Just take off your side skirts and near the rear fender is a plug. Just knock it out. One on each sides, but thats a british thing and I won't go there.
19. All my stuff in the trunk is wet, did I leave the trunk up in a thunderstorm?
Nope. Once again, pure Honda genious. I wonder how much they have made on this. It never became a recall. Here's a fix for it:
http://www.elneckio.com/stuff/crx/n...s/newclips.html
20. What spoiler lip will fit on my car?
Unless you can come across and EDM OEM lip none will fit perfectly. The 92-95 Ex/Si coupe/hatch lip bolt on with a little work. The OEM Si lip from EK's bolt up with a little work. Aftermarket lips bolt up with sometimes major work. Someone here installed a Tsunami lip and cut about an inch out of the center of it to make it fit right, but it looks great. Just remember anything can be made to work with right know-how or money.
The author of this FAQ would like to thank those that contributed by collecting information over the years and making it available. Special thanks to Team Sol International and Club Sol International for your vast plethora of information. Would you say I have a plethora? Yes, El Guapo.
This is an internet web forum. Everyone is here due to choice, if you don’t like it don’t log on. It's that easy. If you don’t like someone, you can put them on your ignore list. No one cares who is being mean to you.
On to the excitement!
Information Taken from Team Del Sol
http://www.teamdelsol.com/
========================
Known as the Honda CRX del Sol, it was in international production for 8 years from 1992 to 1998. The Civic del Sol, as it was called in North America, was available for 6 years from 1993 to 1997.
The US models are: S, Si, and VTEC being the top of the line model. Note that both Si and VTEC models had a VTEC engine. However, the Si had a single overhead cam (SOHC), while the VTEC line had dual overhead cams (DOHC) and more horsepower.
The Japanese models are: VXi, VGi, and SiR being the top of the line model.
In Europe they made the ESi and the VTi, being the top of the line model.
Del Sol specs - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Specs/)
Del Sol Colors - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Colors/)
Del Sol Engine Info - Team Del Sol (http://www.teamdelsol.com/technical/faq/Engines/)
STANDARD ON ALL MODELS
The del Sol was always a "hard top convertible" with a lightweight targa top you can put easily take off and put in the trunk. The trunk comes with a liftable roof holder, so you can get under it easily to get stuff out of the trunk. Also standard were dual airbags (93's only had a single drivers-side airbag), four-wheel double wishbone suspension, front stabilizer bar, power side windows, power rear window, an adjustable steering column, tachometer, digital clock, and rear window defroster.
The Si model has additional standard goodies such as an AM/FM stereo cassette, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, power-assisted rack and pinion steering, 14-inch alloy wheels, dual power mirrors, power door locks (95-97) and cruise control.
The VTEC offers these standard exclusive features: an anti-lock braking system (ABS); larger front stabilizer bar as well as a rear stabilizer bar (exclusive to the VTEC), and larger performance oriented tires.
How many del Sols were sold in the US?
1993 - 25,748
1994 - 21,075
1995 - 14,021
1996 - 8,489
1997 - 5,603
Total - 74,936
Many thanks to Big B (Brian Price) for getting us this information.
Information Taken from Automotive Tech
(Del Sol forum - Home of Team Del Sol)
http://www.automotivetech.org/
===========================
Del Sol Model Information '93-'97 for the USDM market.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following information will tell you what was standard equipment for each years models.
This Information was gathered from Factory Honda Model Year Brochures.
1993 Civic Del Sol - Standard Features/Equipment:
S:
Includes standard: Removable roof panel, dual manual remote control mirrors (painted body color), auxillary lights, full wheel covers (13 x 5J), driver's side air bag (SRS), impact-absorbing body-colored bumpers, 3-point seat belts, power side windows with auto "down", power rear window, tachometer, resetable trip odometer, adjustable steering column, center armrest with storage compartment and beverage holder, audio system cover, reclining seat backs, center locking rear storage compartments, digital quartz clock, coin box, remote fuel filler door release with lock, trunk/cargo area light, 2-speed intermittent wipers, trunk open warning light, rear window "down" warning light, rear window defroster with timer, in-trunk roof storage system, high-mount brake light, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, all-season radial tires (P175/70/R13 82S), 1.5 litre 102 horsepower SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI), 5-speed manual transmission (standard) or optional 4-speed automatic with electronically controlled lockup torque converter.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Captiva Blue (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
Adds: Dual remote-control power mirrors, cruise control, power-assisted steering, front 21mm stabilizer bar, color-keyed center seat stripe, dual warning horns, low-profile 14" all-season radial tires (P185/60/R14 82H), alloy wheels (14 x 5 1/2 JJ), 4-wheel disc brakes, 1.6 litre 125 horsepower SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) with Variable Valve Timing (VTEC), front chin spoiler***. Also a special model was made this year to introduce the del Sol in Samba Green only with optional alloy wheel painted same color as car along with special striping (800 models made nationwide according to a magazine article).
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Samba Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Captiva Blue (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1994 Civic Del Sol - Added as standard features:
S:
Dual front air bags - with this came a change to the dash with a smaller glove box.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Captiva Blue (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
AM/FM high power stereo with cassette (4 X 20 Watt).
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Samba Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Captiva Blue (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
VTEC:
1.6 litre 160 Horsepower DOHC VTEC engine (manual transmission only) B16A3/B16A2 OBDI, front stabilizer bar (24mm), rear stabilizer bar (15mm), all season tires (P195/60/R14 85V), ABS (Canada models only), upper ("performance bar") and lower front strut braces, bigger front brakes (10.3 on VTEC vs 9.4 inches on Si), larger brake master cylinder and brake booster.
Exterior colors: Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1995 Del Sol - Added as standard features (extended model year run, September 1995 - January 1996):
S:
Cylinder protector for lock cylinders, adjustable center console vent (driver's side only), remote fuel door and trunk openers with lock on gas door only, low fuel warning light, no longer classified as a Civic del Sol (the "Civic" decal on the rear left panel was removed), and upgraded the roof seals to stop roof leaks at the front corners.
Exterior colors: Paradise Blue Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Milano Red.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
Si:
Power door locks.
Exterior colors: Paradise Blue Green (Pearl), Granda Black (Pearl), Milano Red, Frost White.
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
VTEC:
ABS added as standard feature.
Exterior colors: Paradise Isle Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black with upper gray panels.
1996 Del Sol - Added as standard features (short model year run, February 1996 - September 1996):
S:
Loss of auxillary lights, redesigned front bumper (changed the length to 157.7" from 157.3"), front stabilizer bar (21mm), changed to OBDII for engine management, 1.6 litre engine added, 106 HP up from 102 HP before, change in color on dash bezel from black to a dark gray, button at the end of e-brake handle now finished with a chrome tip, headlight-on reminder.
Exterior colors: Vogue Silver Metallic, Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Si:
Front stabilizer bar (22mm), rear stabilizer bar (13mm), 1.6 litre engine now 127 HP up from 125 HP, lost the matching body color stripe on the seat, also new material used for the seat cover.
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
VTEC:
Lowered RPM red line to 8,000rpm from 8,200rpm, changed air intake hose (rubber part to air box) to the same one used on the Si (smaller size), OBDII B16A2 block used.
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
1997 Del Sol - Added as standard features (last year made):
S:
None
Exterior colors: Vogue Silver Metallic, Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Si:
None
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Frost White, Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
VTEC:
None
Exterior colors: Cypress Green (Pearl), Milano Red, Granda Black (Pearl).
Interior colors: All black panels with gray panels only on roof panel and front window trim.
Accessories/Options:
Rear wing, AM/FM high power stereo with cassette player, AM/FM high power stereo with CD player, air conditioning, 4-speaker system, premium speaker system.
Some Dealers added Options:
Pin stripes, leather seats, optional alloy wheels available both in 13" and 14" sizes, power antenna, tweeter kit, floor mats (zig-zag: gray or color matched, rainbow: two types), special seat belt harness for child seat, front nose mask ("car bra" - two styles: one for '93 - '95's and one for '96 & '97's), mud guards, anti-theft deterrent system, seat covers, CD changer, exhaust finisher (tip), leather wrap for the steering wheel.
(Note some of these options may have been available from the factory assembly line, it didn't state which ones, just stated that they were options for the car.)
*** Note on the 'front chin spoiler' that is listed as a standard equipment on the '93 Si model (list in the factory Honda brochure for '93 Civic del Sol). I personally have never seem one standard or a listed part number for the del Sol ('SR2' which is part of the part number for the Sol's), just the Civic factory lip added from the '93-'95 Civic (part number 71110-SR3-000) that people have added to their cars. Could it be that Honda America was going to add the Civic Lip as standard equipment to the del Sol? - Geo
I'd like to thank everyone here for all their help on the information to put this together. Comments are welcome and any necessary changes that need to be made to present the correct information.
Geo
President
Team Sol of Washington (http://www.teamdelsolwa.com/)
Del Sol FAQ on Automotive Tech:
-------------------------------
PAINT CODES
___________
• Cypress Green • G82P
• Captiva Blue Pearl • B62P
• Milano Red • R81
• Granada Black • NH503P
• Frost White • NH538
• Isle Green • G71P
• Paradise Blue/Green • BG33P
• Samba Green • GY15P
• Vogue Silver • NH550M
Frequently Asked Questions
__________________________
Before you work on your car by Manny:
Manuals are made and provided with products for a reason. Yes sometimes the instructions are vague. This is where your automotive knowledge kicks in so you can figure it out. Some people know more about mechanics whereas others' expertise is electrical.
Here are a few things you can do to increase your general autmotive knowledge:
1. Read the owners's manual front to back at least twice. If you don't have one, borrow one, or buy one from helm.inc. You will learn about your car, maintenance schedules, fluid capicities, and more.
2. I highly recommend having at LEAST a Haynes manual for 92-95 Civic & del Sol. They're $9 at Discount Auto Parts last time I checked. Read through it front to back at least twice as well. I like the Haynes because they go through the steps so that the basic home mechanic can understand. Also, they provide good information about how major systems of the car work. It also has wiring diagrams for the Civic and delSol.
Again, maintenance schedules, fluid capacities, torque specifications, troubleshooting guide, ECM codes. After that you should get a Factory Service Manual. That has partnumbers and everything!
3. Go to the automotive section of www.howstuffworks.com and go through basically every article in the "under the hood" section. Key ones are:
-An engine camshaft
-How Anti-Lock Brakes work
-How automatic trannies work
-How automotive ignition systems work
-How brakes work
-How camshafts work
-How car computers work
-How car engines work
-How clutches work
-How differentials work
-How disc brakes work
-How drum brakes work
-How fuel injection systems work
-How gears work
-How horsepower works
-How manual trannies work
-How power brakes work
-How wire, fuses, and connectors work
-Inline Four-Cylinder Engine
After those you can branch out to the other secctions in Auto stuff.
4. Subscribe to Sport Compact Car. In my opinion, this magazine has helped me learn sooo much. The technobable column and how-to's especially.
I REALLY need to make a database of all my issues so that I can reference specific articles.
5. Some websites that you can check out to learn more about Honda's are:
Honda Life
http://www.hondalife.com *Articles are great (we need more!!)
Honda Performance
http://www.honda-perf.org *Hybrid especially
The Temple of VTEC
http://www.vtec.net
6. Some Honda books you should get:
Honda & Acura Performance Handbook
Honda/Acura Performance
High Peformance Honda Builder's Handbook vol 1 & 2
Civic Duty
Honda Dream
Honda Civic Guide
*These are available through your bookstore or here:
http://www.creverything.com/cr-books-1.html
So, hit the books and happy learning.
*_*
Tips
____
1. I want to clean my engine, but its hot and dirty. What can I use?
This is the easiest thing EVER to do. You just need a few items: Simple Green (regular or automotive) Full Strength (do not dilute). A garden hose + water. Rag and a stiff brush (small and large) Here's the deal:
1) Warm up the car, let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the fan kicks on. Turn it off.Disconnect the battery Just so the grease can warm up a bit.
2) Cover your distributor and battery with a plastic bag and hold that secure with a rubber band. (just as a precaution, I do not use one)
3) Give the engine bay, hood, wherever a light spraying with water.
4) Spray, douse, cover whatever you want to call it the engine bay in a liberal coating of Simple Green. Let it sit for a few minutes. Begin wiping with a wet rag, scrub sort of good. Until youre happy; applying simple green as needed for the stubborn stuff. Scrub scrub away. Use the small and large brushes for hard to reach places.
5) Clean everything you can see. If its got dirt wipe it, brush it spray it until you see paint.
6) Ok you're done. Are you sufficiently happy that its clean? Good. Remove the plastic bags. Now close the hood and start the car, once again, let it run. Let it get warm. Leave it running, let it dry. Yes you will see steam coming out from underneath. Don't sweat it. Its Ok.
7) Wipe off the battery and distibutor with the wet rag. Just get it clean. Now detail the engine. An engine dresser will work great. You can even find a belt dresser at an auto parts store.
8)Tada you're done. WOW look at it bling. Your hard work has paid off. Now, keep it clean.
Now that the physical motor is clean, how about the internal parts
I'm too lazy to type this out. There is one great and wonderful product out there. Sea Foam; a marine engine cleaner. Here is all you need to know:
Sea Foam site (http://www.seafoamsales.com/motorTuneUpTechGas.htm)
How-to Use it (http://w3.one.net/~roz/cars/z28/seafoam.html)
2. I dont want an exhaust that sounds like a fart cannon, which one should I get?
Get one made for the del Sol, or 92-95 EG6 HB (some work needed to fit) and go here http://www.listentomyexhaust.com/
for some sounds of exhausts.
3. My engine makes a noise, what could it be?
My engine makes noise from the time I start it until I shut it off. What kind of noise? What are you doing when it begins and what makes it stop? Be specific, vague questions like that make for a fun time.
4. What sparks plugs can I use and what is a heat range?
NGK are the best plugs for your Honda period. They're OEM do you really think Honda doesn't know what it's doing? Here is a quick info shot on spark plugs:
For your S model:
ZFR5F-11 OEM normal heat range
ZFR6F-11 OEM one range cooler
For your Si:
ZFR5J-11 OEM Normal heat range
ZFR6J-11 OEM one range cooler
For your VTEC:
PFR6L-13 OEM Normal heat range
PFR7L-13 OEM One range cooler
What is the firing order for a Honda D or B series motor and what is the sequence for the distributor?
http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8firing.bmp
5. Where can I buy a shop manual for my car?
Get a Helms manual. Sure they're expensive but who do you think Honda gets them from?
Call (800) 782-4356, visit www.helminc.com, or email feedback@helminc.com.
Cost $62 For Shop Manual
$39- $44 for Electrical Troubleshooting Manual ( ETM )
$22- $27 For Owners Manual
$37 for body repair manual
6. How do I make my car fast?
How fast do you want to go? How much money are you willing to spend? Are you looking for a certain amount of power? Once again, help us help you. As Microsoft said “Where do you want to go today?”
7.Why don’t I have any torque?
Welcome to owning a Honda. The saying is true, well sort of. There is NO replacement for displacement. That is more than true when it comes to torque. But a blower/turbo can quickly remedy that. If you want to know more, see the above question.
8. My engine idles erratically, what can I do?
Glad you asked, mainly because someone else did the typing for me. Id like to thanks Adam a.k.a. pills. Here is Adam's article like I said earlier you can find a lot just SEARCHING. And once again, Hondaswap to the rescue.
9. I can’t find del Sol parts online. Help me!
That is a problem we have run into time and time again. The del Sol gets no respect from companies. As a general rule: If it will fit a 92-95 model EG Civic or a 94-01 model DC Integra (minus Type R); it will fit the motor/chassis of the del Sol. Be sure to match engines when looking for engine parts. If you’re not sure, ASK. It doesn’t hurt.
10. What engine do I have?
A four cylinder? U.S. Models only. Please ask for foreign models
Year/Model/Engine
_________________
93-95 S • D15B7 • 1.5L SOHC 16-valve (OBDI)
93-95 Si • D16Z6 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDI)
94-95 VTEC • B16A3/B16A2 • 1.6L DOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDI)
96-97 S • D16Y7 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve (OBDII)
96-97 Si • D16Y8 • 1.6L SOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDII)
96-97 VTEC • B16A2 • 1.6 DOHC 16-valve VTEC (OBDII)
11. Where can I find general information on my engine, transmission, throttle body and other items?
http://www.google.com - It's called search and learn. No really. For a great site with a ton of resources visit
http://www.hondaswap.com/reference/index.php - you can find out information on your engine specs, gear ratios, and other exciting things.
12. What size wheels fit my car?
First off know your STOCK size before upgrading.
S: 175/70/13
SI: 185/60/14
VTEC: 195/60/14
Your lug pattern is the Honda standard 4 x 100.
13. What size tires can I fit on my new wheels and know how fast I am really traveling?
Well the Miata guys gave us something for once besides a hard time.
http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html
Take into account that this is for fresh tires. Tread wear will throw off the value. As always its best to drive at a reasonable speed with traffic in mind.
For the lazy kids who don't know how to search or use www.google.com:
RECOMMENDED TIRE SIZES FOR THE DEL SOL
NOTE: All actual speeds based on a speedo reading of 60 MPH on STOCK wheels/tires. IE, when the speedo reads 60 on the new wheels/tires you'll be going the listed 'actual speed' below.
STOCK:
13" wheels: 175/70-13
14" wheels: 185/60-14
AFTERMARKET
15" wheels:
195/50-15: .13% larger, actual speed is 60.08
205/50-15: 1.83% larger, actual speed is 61.10
16" wheels:
205/45-16: 1.83% larger, actual speed is 61.58
205/40-16: .86% smaller, actual speed is 59.48
17" wheels:
205/40-17: 3.44% larger, actual speed is 62.06
205/35-17: .01% smaller, actual speed is 59.99
18" wheels:
215/35-18: 5.32% larger, actual speed is 63.19
215/30-18: 1.85% larger, actual speed is 61.11
And finally... other tire sizes are possible, but not recommended. I take no responsibility for the stupidity of others.
14. I want to know more about suspension. Where do I go?
You're in luck. We happen to have some guru’s on this (www.automotivetech.org) board. Just venture out into the Suspension forum and learn all you can. Read the articles, I guarantee you will not be let down. If something is difficult for you to understand/grasp, it can always be broken down.
15. I want to put some gauges in my car. Where can I mount them?
Anywhere you want really. All it takes is a little work and some ingenuity. Without it though, you do have a few options.
blownsol@aol.com had some custom 3-guage A-pillar replacement pods made. They’re great quality and OEM color/texture. But if you don’t want one of those, you can use the dual pod for a 92-95 civic. Or you can custom mold single pods to the pillar.
16. Ok you just said EDM and JDM, what does that mean?
EDM means European Domestic Market and JDM means Japanese Domestic Market. USDM means United States Domestic Market. It basically tells you where the manufacturer intended for the car to go. Its obvious, if you don’t understand where they were meant to go don’t ask, please!
17. So what different things happened with the EDM and JDM del Sols that we were ripped off with?
Wow the list is quite large. Some of the major things:
JDM: one-piece headlights. Door handle map lights. H4 beam Auxillary lights. Transtop (semi-automated targa storage in the trunk). Visors of course. License plate fillers. RHD. Automatic climate control system. Headlight washers.
EDM: Two piece headlights (glass) EDM Aero Kit (lip, sides, rear…btw its discontinued) H4 glass Aux lights. Rear mist light. Visors again. Heated seats. Headlight washers. Map lights. Adjustable headlights (up and down). And the 1998 Special Edition Motegi and Daytona model del Sols.
Motegi: here (http://images.fotki.com/v1/photos/1/14825/57195/montegi2-vi.jpg) and here (http://images.fotki.com/v1/photos/1/14825/57195/montegi1-vi.jpg).
Daytona: here (http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8seats-vi.jpg), here (http://www.hondavision.com/photopost/data/509/8cockpit-vi.jpg), and here (http://www.brandonlynch.com/galleries/gallery5/images/silvermohrs92.jpg).
*note the body kit was not stock for the Daytona*
18. I hear water/sloshing noises when I turn, what can I do?
Turn your car into a shammy cloth? No thats not it, here is a detailed fix for that http://www.elneckio.com/stuff/crx/s...lpipeclean.html. Or you can do as one Soler said (he's a Brit, watch out) Just take off your side skirts and near the rear fender is a plug. Just knock it out. One on each sides, but thats a british thing and I won't go there.
19. All my stuff in the trunk is wet, did I leave the trunk up in a thunderstorm?
Nope. Once again, pure Honda genious. I wonder how much they have made on this. It never became a recall. Here's a fix for it:
http://www.elneckio.com/stuff/crx/n...s/newclips.html
20. What spoiler lip will fit on my car?
Unless you can come across and EDM OEM lip none will fit perfectly. The 92-95 Ex/Si coupe/hatch lip bolt on with a little work. The OEM Si lip from EK's bolt up with a little work. Aftermarket lips bolt up with sometimes major work. Someone here installed a Tsunami lip and cut about an inch out of the center of it to make it fit right, but it looks great. Just remember anything can be made to work with right know-how or money.
The author of this FAQ would like to thank those that contributed by collecting information over the years and making it available. Special thanks to Team Sol International and Club Sol International for your vast plethora of information. Would you say I have a plethora? Yes, El Guapo.
frknight
12-29-2008, 05:19 PM
It has just rained for a couple of days, now my Del Sol 's floor is soaked. Where are the obvious places to look for lesksge? Also I am able to hear liquid sloshing around so I tried clicking the links in the faqs section and I was unable to bring up s psge. I was told the psge no longer exists. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks
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