DIY: DC Front Upper Strut Bar Install
 

Ok I know this isn't rocket science nor is it intended to impress anyone because it won't; but if you have a DC base model Integra you were probably wondering if and how can you install an upper strut bar. If you were like me, you weren't sure what bar would fit and if any modification was needed.

The following are instructions on the install. The strut bar is from a GS-R and it is being installed on a 94 RS coupe.

You will need the following hardware

M8 x 20mm bolts (Grade 8.8 or higher) = qty 4
M8 nuts with nylon lock thread = qty 4
M8 washers = qty 8

First remove the 4 (2 on each side) rubber grommets near the shock towers:

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/4180/img0007ly2.th.jpg

Then jack the car up on one side enough so that you have easy access to the 2 holes
as show in this picture.

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/8...0010uv8.th.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/3...0009up6.th.jpg

Once the car is safely raised on the one side, position the strut bar so that the holes are lined up with the strut tower holes. Now install the washer on the bolt and insert the bolt and washer into hole. Keep your hand pressing the bolt through the whole and with your other hand insert the top washer and lightly screw the nut on.

The bolt from the bottom view should look like this.

http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/7...0011fv4.th.jpg

To tighten the bolt assembly, hold the head with a wrench and tighten the nut with a socket. Do this for both bolts and repeat on remaining side.

http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/4...0012fv4.th.jpg

If you have a welder it wouldn't be a bad idea to tack the bolt into place from the bottom. I believe GS-Rs have the studs welded in. Here is the final product.

http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/7...0015fj8.th.jpg

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/8...0019qt9.th.jpg

Did I notice a difference? Yes, the turn in feels more responsive. Don't expect a huge difference. Once winter turns to spring and I can put my summer tires on I'm sure I can give a better evaluation.

good stuff.......
BTW, clean your engine bay;)

Ya, Honda didn't use splash shields so all the salt and sand does a number in the winter. I will be able to eat off of it in the summer!:yeah:

lets not forget that you will need a gsr strut bar so someone buy mine!:D

great write-up! just an added note, you can use stainless steel bolts, for those paranoid about rust.

sweeeett gonna try it after i buy one!

is this the same procedure and bolt size for the type r strut bar
and where will i be able to get the bolts?

Exact same procedure, the Type R strut bar goes in the same location as the GSR strut bar shown above

You can get the bolts at home depot or home hardware.

nice DIY!!