| Street Legal Parts Guide
When talking about aftermarket products for the street, it's a question of some importance: Is it legal? This month we put together a product guide detailing some of the best "street" products we could find in the import aftermarket. Initially, we wanted to make it a CARB-legal guide, but to tell you the truth there aren't a whole lot of CARB-approved products on the street. Therefore, the guide details products that are touted as street worthy-that is, they will not affect your engine's emissions in an adverse way.
Basically, for an aftermarket part to be considered absolutely street legal, it must either be a direct O.E. replacement or it must be tested extensively by California's Air Resource Board (CARB) at a significant monetary cost to the company seeking approval. Some of the products listed here have in fact made it through the requisite red tape and received their CARB approval (O.E.) number. The rest can either be considered O.E. replacements or they are mild enough in their effects they will not cause drastic changes to your engine's emissions.
Please note this is not a be-all end-all solution to your street legal concerns; it is merely a guide to be used in planning your method of attack. Before you make a purchase, please use your head and consult with the product manufacturer before you take the plunge. Happy hunting.
Note on electronics:
Because of their adjustable nature, aftermarket electronics like piggyback computers cannot be considered truly "street legal" in the strictest sense of the term. However, this isn't to say cars running these electronics will not pass emissions tests. These electronics can be invaluable tools when configuring your engine for optimum performance, whethe it be for performance or emissions compliance.
Note on cams:
Technically, there are no CARB-approved camshafts on the market. The cams we present here are touted as hot street cams, but neither carry genuine CARB approval, although Skunk2 claims certification is pending for its Stage 1 cam package. If you're worried about affecting your car's emissions, contact your chosen cam manufacturer directly and consult a technical representative.
Note on exhausts:
Despite what the CHP and EPA might want to tell you, cat-back aftermarket exhausts cannot affect your engine's emissions and therefore do not need CARB approval to make them street legal. What you really need to be concerned about on the street is exhaust noise. Some companies like GReddy go the extra mile to ensure their exhaust dB ratings match up with law enforcement's criteria. If you're in doubt about your chosen system, contact the manufacturer and ask if it's been designed and tested to meet noise regulations.
AEM
50 state legal
AEM induction systems feature CNC mandrel-bent 6061 aluminum intake pipes that are individually tuned in both length and diameter to maximize power in each application. Every intake is powdercoated and uses TIG-welded fittings and brackets. AEM utilizes a new, lightweight urethane, four-layer cotton-gauze filter with a redesigned air horn for filtration. All AEM air induction systems are CARB exempt or pending exemption (50 state legal).
Contact AEM at (310) 484-2322 or go to www.aempower.com.
Edlebrock
50 state legal
Edelbrock now offers two Performer X intake manifolds depending on your needs. Part number 4756 is for naturally aspirated applications, while part number 4757 for forced induction is 50-state emission legal and includes a secondary set of injector bosses for additional fuel requirements in turbo or race applications. The larger-than-stock plenum volume and 9-in. runner length are tuned for additional power at high rpm, providing excellent power gains throughout the 3,000-7,500 rpm range. Available for 1996-00 Civics equipped with SOHC VTEC engines.
Contact Edelbrock at (310) 781-2222 or visit www.edelbrock.com.
Comptech
50 state legal
Comptech's Ice Box cold air intake systems are designed for maximum induction efficiency on most popular Honda and Acura applications. The IceBox places the air intake at a remote location near the car's front turn signal, where it can breathe colder air from outside the engine compartment. This colder, denser air helps the engine generate more horsepower and torque while boosting overall performance.
Contact Comptech USA at (916) 933-1080 or visit www.comptechusa.com.
skunk2
50 state legal
Skunk2's intake manifold is engineered to substantially increase flow characteristics over the restrictive stock unit, especially in the mid- to high-rpm range. This makes it ideal for both naturally aspirated and forced induction applications. The manifold, utilizes factory sensors, and will not affect emissions. Applications include Civic, Prelude, CRX and Integra.
For more details, contact Skunk2 at (909) 808-9888 or log on to www.skunk2.com.
Injen
50 state legal
Injen offers a range of various induction kits and cold-air extensions for a wide range of import applications. All feature 6061 aluminum construction with TIG-welded brackets , CNC milled flanges and Injen's proprietary urethane filter with built in velocity stack. All systems are CARB approved or pending approval.
Contact Injen at (909) 839-0706 or visit www.injen.com.
AEM
50 state legal
AEM's Plug & Play Engine Management System (EMS) is a user-programmable system that plugs directly into a vehicle's factory ECU harness with no additional wiring. Windows(tm)-based software makes the task of copying, viewing and manipulating data as simple as a click of the mouse. User-defined templates are easily configurable and enable tuners to establish "quick keys" to any pertinent information during the tuning process. The EMS's software allows tuners to program virtually any combination of engine control, power adders and auxiliary devices, and accurately deliver proper amounts of fuel and correct ignition timing for any boost level or operating condition.
Contact AEM at (310) 484-2322 or visit www.aempower.com.
Jackson
50 state legal
Jackson Racing offers high-performance fuel components for applications needing a greater supply of fuel than the stock system provides. Jackson Racing's Hi-Output Fuel Pump has been specified to deliver the correct amount of fuel. Manufactured by an OEM vendor, this pump is a direct in-tank replacement. The company also offers a fuel pressure regulator that mounts directly to the factory fuel rail. Made from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum, the regulator is adjustable from20psi and up.
Contact Jackson Racing at (805) 681-3410 or log on to www.jacksonracing.com
Apex'I
A'PEX's V-AFC features a user-definable, eight-point adjustable fuel curve that can be set in 500 RPM increments. The range of fuel adjustment is plus or minus 50 percent at each of the user-defined setting points. The Fuel Adjustment function considers wide/narrow throttle and low/high camshaft settings, from which four different fuel maps are created (wide-low, wide-high, narrow-low, narrow-high). The integrated VTEC controller adjusts the point at which the engine switches from the low to high cam during acceleration, as well as when the engine switches from the high to low cam during deceleration.
Contact A'PEX Integration at (714) 685-5700 or visit www.apexi-usa.com.
AEM
50 state legal
AEM High Volume Fuel Rails are CNC machined from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum and feature a 1/2-inch fuel bore. Each rail includes an additional port for the installation of nitrous or an external fuel pressure gauge. The ends of are tapped to accept either -6 or -8 line and a custom fitting allows for the use of the stock fuel hose. AEM also offers a performance fuel filter constructed from 6061 aluminum with double O-ring seals for added leak protection.
Contact AEM at (310) 484-2322 or visit www.aempower.com.
DC Sports
50 state legal
DC Sports' Direct Air Charger (DAC) intake system features 3-inch mandrel-bent aircraft-quality aluminum tube construction and CNC-machined couplers that ensure a perfect fit with the throttle body. All necessary fittings for the temperature sensor and breather lines are included, and a rolled bead at the end of the intake is employed to make sure the filter doesn't slip off. Each DAC comes with a vehicle-specific mounting bracket to keep the unit securely in place.
Contact DC Sports at (909) 734-2030 or go online to www.dcsports.com.
AEM
50 state legal
AEM Tru-Power(tm) Pulleys increase horsepower by decreasing the parasitic effects that factory accessory pulleys have on a vehicle's engine. Lightweight 6061 T-6 billet aluminum construction reduces rotating weight and increases efficiency. All pulleys have a tooth profile that is guaranteed to match Original Equipment (O.E.) specifications, eliminating the chances of premature belt wear. Each Tru-Power(tm) pulley kit includes comprehensive instructions, performance belts and AEM decals.
Contact AEM at (310) 484-2322 or go to www.aempower.com.
Skunk2
50 state legal
Skunk2 cam profiles are designed using the latest computerized modeling techniques to maximize power output. Each S2 cam is machined from blanks produced using the latest in chill casting technology, supplied by the same foundries used by Toyota and Honda. Skunk2's stage 1 cams are designed to retain a stock-like idle. Upgraded springs are recommended, which the company also supplies. Available for Honda D16Z, H22 and B-Series engines.
Contact Skunk2 Racing at (909) 808-9888 or go to www.skunk2.com.
Holley
50 state legal
Holley EFI fuel rails are CNC machined and feature a 9/16-inch diameter inner bore, have a built in port for a gauge or NOS fuel source outlet, and have -8AN fittings.
Two styles are available. One is for use with O.E. injectors, while the other is optimized for use with Holley injectors.
Contact Holley at (800) 2HOLLEY or go online to www.holley.com.
Vortech
50 state legal
Vortech fuel rails are machined from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum. They come in a complete kit for a direct bolt-on treatment to either stock or modified vehicles. Rails are machined for -6 O-ring fittings, and the kit includes the necessary AN fittings and brackets. Red, blue, purple anodized or polished finishes are available. Additionally, Honda/Acura applications also available with a fuel pressure optimizer.
Contact Vortech Engineering at (805) 247-0226 or go to www.vortechsuperchargers.com.
Russell Performance
50 state legal
Made with stainless steel braided hose and anodized aluminum hose ends, Russel fuel line kits are designed to connect to the O.E. fuel filter to the fuel rail for maximum reliability and a professional-quality installation. All Russell hose ends, like those included in these kits, are precision machined to ensure precise thread engagement and a tight seal. All lines are marked for easy, trouble-free installation. Kits are available for 1996-2000 Civic DX, LX, and EX, 1992-95 Honda Civic EX, 1999-2000 Civic Si, and all 1994-2001 Acura Integras.
Contact Russell Performance at (310) 781-2222 or go online to www.russellperformance.com
DC Sports
50 state legal
DC Sports headers are available in a variety of styles for Honda and Acura vehicles. Ceramic-coated mild steel and T304 stainless finishes are available. Additionally, headers feature near equal length primaries and mandrel-bent tubing for optimum flow, as well as CNC-machined flanges for a tight seal.
Contact DC Sports at (909) 734-2030 or go online to www.dcsports.com.
Comptech
50 state legal
Stainless steel headers from Comptech are designed for maximum midrange power for an overall increase in performance. They feature MIG or TIG welded joints and CNC machined flanges for a perfect fit, as well as an attractive finish for lasting good looks. Applications are available for most Honda vehicles, including Civic, Integra and S2000.
Contact Comptech at (916) 933-1080 or visit www.comptechusa.com.
Edelbrock
For street/strip B-seriesVTEC engines only, Edelbrock's new cams are ground from chilled iron billets which are then nitrided for durability and a long sevice life. Combined with Edelbrock's intake manifold, throttle body and headers, this cam can offer a significant wheel horsepower increase over the factory rating in the high rpm range. This cam requires upgraded valve springs, which Edelbrock also offers in kit form.
Contact Edelbrock at (310) 781-2222 or visit www.edelbrock.com.
Greddy
50 state legal
GReddy headers are made from stainless steel mandrel bent pipes and investment casted flanges. Main power improvements are made by the design and placement of the collectors to even out the exhaust pulses. Large primary runners promote exhaust gas acceleration. A perfect match to GReddy cat-back exhaust systems.
Contact GReddy at (949) 588-8300 or online at www.greddy.com.
Edelbrock
50 state legal
Edelbrock has a stainless steel header for Honda applications. It features mandrel-bent tubes and laser-cut flanges. One- and two-piece headers are available, and each is designed as a direct replacement.
Contact Edelbrock at (310) 781-2222 or go to www.edelbrock.com.
Random Technology
50 state legal
Random Technology's high-flow catalytic converters are engineered to enable you to retain a necessary component in your vehicle's emissions control system without making any sacrifices in power delivery. The company claims in many cases installation of a Random high-flow cat actually frees more horsepower than using straight pipes alone. A plethora of import applications are available, including import and domestic.
Contact Random Technology at (770) 554-4242 or visit www.randomtechnology.com.
Apex'i
50 state legal
A'PEX's Dunk 115 Series Mufflers were designed to satisfy the demands of U.S. car enthusiasts with full 60mm piping and a straight-through canister design. The smooth-flowing piping is treated with high-temperature titanium particle coating. The offset 200 mm SUS 304 stainless steel canister is designed to provide ample ground clearance. The 115 mm tip is also constructed of polished SUS 304 stainless steel.
Contact A'PEX Integration at (714) 685-5700 or go to www.apexi-usa.com.
Comptech
50 state legal
Comptech carries a wide range of exhaust systems for Honda and Acura vehicles. Features include mandrel-bent stainless steel construction and CNC machined flanges. Each system is engineered to reduce backpressure and free up power, as well as producing a throaty exhaust note. Applications include Integra, Civic, S2000, NSX, RSX and more.
Contact Comptech at (916) 933-1080 or go to www.comptechusa.com.
Skunk2
50 state legal
Skunk2 Racing Mega Power exhaust systems are constructed from T304 stainless and feature the popular Japanese N1 styling. Each set of pipes is mandrel bent with adequately sized tubing for maximum flow and is finished off with a low restriction muffler and single polished 102mm tip. Systems are available in standard or fully polished finishes, and each comes with all hardware and gaskets, as well as a removable silencer.
Contact Skunk2 at (909) 808-9888 or go to www.skunk2.com.
DC Sports
50 state legal
DC Sports' cat-back exhausts are designed using mandrel-bent tubing and a straight-through design for maximum flow. A straight-through muffler and resonator packed with stainless steel wool and fiberglass ensure a throaty sound that meets federal noise emissions requirements. Complete stainless steel construction ensures long life and good looks.
Contact DC Sports at (909) 734-2030 or go to www.dcsports.com.
Holley
50 state legal
Airmass Warlock cat-back systems are engineered for maximum power and a mellow performance sound that will not degrade with time. The Warlock is constructed of durable 2-inch mandrel-bent, 16-gauge aluminized tubing for smooth exhaust transition to the Warlock muffler, a high flow, triple pass tube design to reduce backpressure for extremely high exhaust velocity and a quality sound. These systems use stock hangers for a simple bolt-on installation.
Contact Holley at (800) 2-HOLLEY or go to www.holley.com.
DC Sports
50 state legal
GReddy's EVO exhaust system features mandrel-bent stainless steel construction, large diameters for maximum flow, and a new offset tip which helps to improve road clearance on lowered vehicles. The muffler's design helps make it unobtrusive with excellent sound suppression. The GReddy logo is embossed on both the tip and can for a stylish look.
Contact GReddy at (949)
Fluidyne
50 state legal
Fluidyne radiators feature CAB-brazed (no epoxy) core construction, polished aluminum tanks and durable high efficiency air fins for maximum cooling capability across the full range of city, highway and road course driving. These are application-specific, direct fit high performance units.
Contact Fluidyne at (800) FLUIDYNE or visit www.fluidyne.com.
Jackson Racing
50 state legal
While most would consider an oil cooler kit an added insurance policy for their engine, it actually can help improve performance. Jackson Racing's oil cooler kit increases oil capacity and cools the oil that flows through your engine. The kit includes a remote oil filter mount for easier access. For those who drive in cold weather, Jackson also offers a shroud that snaps on over the oil cooler to maintain minimum required oil temperatures.
Contact Jackson Racing (805) 681-3410 or log on to www.jacksonracing.com.
Comptech
50 state legal
Comptech's ECU for Integra lowers the VTEC changeover point, raises the rev limiter.and optimizes the engine's timing curve for performance driving. Not recommended for forced induction applications.
Contact Comptech at (916) 933-1080 or go to www.comptechusa.com.
MSD
50 state legal
MSD's 8.5mm Super Conductor wire features a resistance of only 50 ohms per foot, meaning optimum spark energy reaches your spark plug gaps. Even with this low resistance, the wires are still engineered to suppress electromagnetic interference (EMI) like a high resistance factory wire. The wires' outer sleeve is a combination of silicone and synthetic materials to give the wire supreme resistance against heat, chemicals and abrasion. They are available for a variety of sport compact applications in either red or black.
Contact MSD Ignition at (915) 857-5200 or visit www.msdignition.com.
MSD
50 state legal
MSD's Blaster SS coil features a compact design that is capable of producing a high voltage current of 300 milliamps, with a maximum output up to 40,000 volts when combined with an MSD 6 Series Ignition. Its secondary windings are wound on a segmented bobbin to improve the distribution of the high voltage, as well as to reduce the chance of voltage breakdown between the windings. The Blaster SS can be used with stock or CD ignitions and is supplied with vibration mounts.
Contact MSD Ignition at (915) 857-5200 or visit www.msdignition.com.
MSD
50 state legal
The capacitive discharge design of MSD's SCI Ignition Control unit delivers full power sparks throughout your small-displacement engine's entire rpm range.It is designed to deliver hot multiple sparks for a full 20 degrees of crankshaft rotation, ensuring complete combustion of your engine's air/fuel mixture. This produces quick starts, smooth idle, great throttle response and increased power.
Contact MSD Ignition at (915) 857-5200 or go to www.msdignition.com.
Nology
50 state legal
Nology Silverstone spark plugs feature a silver center electrode the company claims increases spark carrying capacity and power by up to 137 percent over platinum or iridium plugs.
Contact Nology at (800) 4NOLOGY or www.nology.com
Jackson racing
50 state legal
Jackson Racing supercharger kits represent some of the most reliable aftermarket forced induction available. Each kit is based on a positive displacement Eaton blower that makes power from off-idle to max rpm without any spooling or lagging. All Jackson Racing supercharger kits come with all needed parts, including the blower, belts, fuel enrichment provisions and hardware. Fully street legal applications are available for Honda Civic CX, DX, EX and Si, CRX, CR-V and Prelude, Acura Integra LS, GS, GS-R and Type R, Mazda Miata and Ford Focus.
Contact Jackson Racing at (805) 681-3410 or log on to www.jacksonracing.com.
Edelbrock
50 state legal
According to the company, Edelbrock's new Performer EFI wet nitrous systems for sport compacts offer up to150 hp at the wheels. They are designed to work with the stock ECU for a simple installation. Each system includes a 10-lb. nitrous bottle (shipped empty), nitrous solenoid, steel braided hose, nitrous filter, jet selection, and all fittings, switches, brackets and hardware. Applications include 2002 RSX, 2001-02 Civic and 2002 WRX.
Contact Edelbrock at (310) 781-2222 or go to www.edelbrock.com.
Comptech
50 state legal
Increase the power and performance on your Accord V6 with a Roots-style blower from Comptech. With a 45 hp increase at the wheels, the Comptech Supercharger (CARB pending) will bring your 1998-2002 V6 to life. The kit includes a custom aluminum manifold and drive unit with fuel pressure regulator, fuel pump, Icebox intake, high flow air filter, battery tray, battery tie down, radiator overflow tank, and all required hardware for perfect fit and finish. Comptech USA, (916) 933-1080, www.comptechusa.com
NOS
50 state legal
The NOS complete nitrous kit allows complete adjustability of power levels with the change of a jet. Kits are available in wet or dry setups, allowing for power boosts of up to 150 hp, depending on your needs. They include all lines and fittings, hardware, solenoids and bottle and are available for Honda, Acura, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Mazda and Subaru.
Contact Holley at (800) 2HOLLEY or go online to www.holley.com.
Vortech
50 state legal
Vortech supercharger systems deliver maximum value for your performance dollar. Each system is 100-percent complete, right down to the wire ties. Systems include a compressor matched, CAD designed and machined Vortech centrifugal supercharger with SQ technology for "Super Quiet" operation, a calibrated fuel system for proper fuel management, a high performance ignition system with boost timing retard for proper timing curve, custom computer tuning, a high-flow air intake system with a K&N air filter and all necessary lines, clamps and hardware. Most systems are currently CARB approved or pending approval.
Contact Vortech at (805) 247-0226 or visit www.vortechsuperchargers.com.
Stillen
50 state legal
After lengthy research and development, Stillen has finally unveiled its supercharger system for the Nissan 350Z. Based on the reliable Eaton Roots-type positive displacement blower, this system is designed to give the 350Z an absolute edge in power. The blower itself mounts directly on top of the 3.5-liter engine, and the company claims it's more reliable than other side-mount centrifugal superchargers. Since installation requires replacement or modification of the factory hood, Stillen's in-house design studio has developed both a bolt-on hood scoop and complete hood replacement to support the kit.
For more information, contact Stillen at (800) 711-0310 or go to www.stillen.com.
Greddy
50 state legal
GReddy turbo kits exclusively use GReddy-spec Mitsubishi turbochargers. Each kit is designed and tested extensively to match the correct sized turbo to its specific application. Kits come with everything you need for a comprehensive installation, including a cast manifold, Greddy/Mitsubishi turbo, air intake, all necessary piping, hoses, and hardware and fuel enrichment provisions, including larger injectors and fuel control units.
Contact GReddy at (949)588-8300 or visit www.greddy.com.
Edelbrock
50 state legal
Edelbrock's Performer X turbo kit is one of the most complete kits you can buy. It includes a pre-assembled Garrett T28 ball-bearing turbo, cast exhaust manifold and exhaust elbow, Spearco intercooler, Tial blow-off valve, a new intake manifold and four additional injectors, fuel control unit, ceramic coated piping and pre-assembled Russel oil, water and fuel lines. All necessary gaskets, flanges and adaptors are also supplied, as well as an Autometer boost gauge and an A-pillar mounting pod. Available for 1996-2000 Civics equipped with the SOHC D16 engine.
Contact Edelbrock at (310) 781-2222 or visit www.edelbrock.com.