I just picked up my darling: an (almost) totally stock '00 AP1 and I want to keep her in tip-top shape. I'm wondering what I should do as PM to keep her pristine. The TCT has already been replaced and I got the oil changed. From what I've been reading the problem areas are the TCT, differential and soft top. The top is in decent shape (even has a glass window), though I think the seal is worn because there's excessive wind noise from the windscreen (shims?). The transmission is also just a bit notchy when cold. So: differential fluid and transmission fluid? Anything else I should worry about? The accessory belts are still good. plugs were just changed. Clutch was recently replaced. Maybe flush the coolant, clutch and brake fluid as well? Wax the paint?

Also of note:
What do you think of the whole winter beater vs winter tires? I have an Accord that's closing in on 300k that would be a decent winter beater, but in the name of lower insurance, minimalism and parking complications I'm considering selling it and getting a set of winter rubbers. OTOH I'd feel completely awful if I wrecked or ruined my s2k with winter driving. How do you avoid the itch in the winter for those that do put the s2k away?

 

Congrats on getting your S. What color? Mileage? Any pics.
If you live in an area where salt is used on the roads it would be best to park it for the winter for the reasons you cited. For those of us that do it is like getting a new car every spring.
Levi

 

She's black with 120k on the clock.
No pics yet, sorry :/

 

Welcome!

I have an extra car but still choose to drive my S every chance I get - rain, snow, everything. In fact I'll be posting some snow day fun on youtube (SparkyS2K) in the near future.

I use crap tires in the winter and RE-71Rs anytime the temperature is favorable. My plan, if I could ever wear out these crap tires, would be to get some good winter tires.

You really should master counter-steering before taking it even in the rain, though. Carry a microfiber towel in case your top drips when you get in / out of the car. Be ready for the back end to let go when you apply throttle, and start out easy with the gas on corners.

Do a good bleed of your clutch fluid to fix the notchy cold feel.

Welcome again and good luck!

 

What's a safe way to practice this? Obviously not public roads. Do I hear track day?

 

What state do you live in? North of the Mason Dixon line, I'd say keep a winter car and park the S.

 

Get involved with a local local autocross group. It costs a small fraction as much as track days, and will get you better prepared for the track. If you are near Portland, OR, I can point you to a few.

 

Complete fluid change is my recommendation. Engine oil, gearbox, and differential. Spec oils only but don't ask "what's the best engine oil?" 'cuz "that guy" asks this weekly -- don't be that guy . Beware of FWD gearbox oil, the right Honda branded oil is easy to find. Also the hydraulics should be changed every few years (it's in your manual) as well as the coolant.

-- Chuck

 

 

I'm up here in Idaho. Our winters are usually pretty mild, but this year's been nuts. So... I'm thinking I'll probably capitalize on my Accord for a while. Sigh

Come springtime though!!!