I plan on buying the aem ems before I even get the sc. Will I really ned to replace the clutch soon after with just the base sc kit?

 

yes, although depending on condition and driving style it could last many months. Mine already seems to be slipping a little at the high end, though I don't notice it myself, but my dyno curve indicates that is likely the case. I think I will have a new clutch within 3 months, or sooner if I notice much slipping.

With any more than the base level of boost, your clutch will disintegrate pretty quickly. It's not designed to hold much more than the stock torque. The factory pressure plate just can't clamp hard enough.

If you are on a budget, I highly recommend a base kit first. You really need a $5K "oh sh!t" fund in reserve (after buying your stuff), too. When you start throwing in standalone ECUs and higher boost into the mix, you're going to be spending a ton of money, and will likely have unexpected trouble (like, say a differential). While you can pay others to tune it, you still have to understand what's going on with the car. Most of the people here do their own work, partially to save money but mostly because they enjoy it.

Will you like the base level of boost? If you like the stock S2000 and want a good bit more, it fits the bill. If you came from a more powerful car, you probably won't. The base kit does add a little in the low end, but not much. My impressions...low end feels like a 2.5L engine, midrange feels like a 3.2L engine, high end feels like a 4L+ engine.

 

How much of a bitch its it to replace the clutch yourself?

 

quite.

Not too bad with a lift, but it looks like such a PITA I will pay someone to do it.

 

As far as power goes this is the fastest car ive owned. I came from an Integra Gsr with a little work done to it. This car isn't much faster which is why i am looking into this kit and trying to understand what is needed and what im in for. As far as low end goes i could care less i don't ever plan to drag my car from a stop or do much drag racing at all really. My main interest is on the road courses, I live 45min from Watkins Glen. As far as the rear diff goes im not to worried as i really try not to abuse the car to much but accidents happen i guess. I really need to find a SC S2K near me and go for a little ride. I could do this job right now but as you said i would like to save a bit more to be safe. In the mean time ill be looking for deals as everything i buy will hopefully be used. I do plan on doing all the work myself except for the tune.

Again, i really appriciate all the help!!!

 

used comptech kits with AC are more common then SOS kits, but either one will suit you fine in the short and long term power goals. Expect to pay $2800-3200 for a Comptech kit and $500-1000K More for an SOS kit if you can find one, not worth the extra money inmop.

Also, as I've mentioned before, its not necessary to get a EMS/injectors right off the bat to run stock boost, or even the next pulley size up safely and reliably. This will get you 280-300whp, about 100whp more then you have now. If you think this wont satisfy for long, then go ahead and get the EMS/Injectors/clutch/and upgraded larger heat exchanger, which is recommended, and then make use of your investment and max out the blower to get the most out of it since you have the supporting equipment.

 

So I'm still in the grey area on this question. I have a few bolt ons and what not and wanted to purchase the aem ems as well as the ct sc. What is the next pulley up from the base pulley? Would I definitely need to purchase injectors for the next pulley up?

 

The next pulley up for the Ap1 is the ap2 4.2" pulley. The next pulley up for the ap2 is the 4". If your running bolt ons, depending on what they are, it is a grey area. With a cat back and TP as well as bigger TB, then that's enough added breathing to cause you to run out of fuel on the base set up and next pulley combined. But there is nothing wrong with hooking all up, street tuning it and finding out. If you want to be safe, run the base boost pressure, tune it and if you want more later then sink the other $2000+ into it with EMS/tuning, injectors etc.

 

I see, I have a cheap DPT Header 70MM TP and 3" Megan single. I think before i buy anything at all i need to take a ride in a SC s2k.

Thanks all!

 

I see, I have a cheap DPT Header 70MM TP and 3" Megan single. I think before i buy anything at all i need to take a ride in a SC s2k.

Thanks all!
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Yep, and honestly the base kit is a nice improvement over N/A, but it nearly wets the palate for more. There is a very good chance that at some point you will want to up the boost and get your ems. 10psi/350ish whp is when the kit really starts moving the car and quite a formidable weapon.