So I have always loved the look of the CR cluster, looked to buy an entire cluster but apparently people want an arm and a leg for them. So after doing some research I found there are only 2 differences in a base 08-09' cluster and the CR version. The lens cover and LCD panel. These are the only 2 part numbers that vary. I opted just for the lens cover for the CR look on my base 09'. I'm not sure if the LCD panel for CR will give you the max power indicator or not. All I did was swap just the lens out. It is a plug n play for 08-09 only.
The part from majestic is $32
I plan do eventually use the power indicator but need to do some more research and see if the LCD panel is what I need, this piece is pricey but still cheaper than a used CR Cluster and you can keep your miles the same.
Before-


After-

 

Awesome upgrade! I would likely do this as well if I had a 08/09

 

Man, that looks great! I really like how the 08-09 clusters went back to having a better visual flow from the tach to the gas and temp gauges. I hava an 05 and don't really care for the separate gas/temp arcs.

 

Ill report back on max power indicator light. I'm thinking it is going to be easy. Both base model and CR share the same part number for ecu. I might be as simple has installing a bulb.

 

I like the look of that, nice work. Personally I don't see the benefit of the max power light, I always thought it was an odd thing to add to the CR model.

 

I agree. Just be cool to have.

 

The S2000 CR instrument panel meters include a "peak-power indicator." When the engine is operating at peak power, a round, green light illuminates to the right of the digital speedometer.

(from Honda Press Release) The S2000 CR is an entirely new trim level for 2008. The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel.


Basically made for the buyer looking to put the Club Racer internals to use

 

There are three parts that are different in the CR cluster vs the base 08/09 cluster.

1. 78110-S2A-A31 - This is the housing for the cluster. The CR housing includes a prism and a lens for the peak power LED. The base housing is missing both items.
2. 78146-S2A-A31 - This is the circuit board for the cluster. This includes the Peak Power LED and driver circuit. The LED and driver are not included on the base model circuit board.
3. 78170-S2A-A31 - This is the lens cover. The only difference between the CR vs base model is the use of yellow instead of silver along the tachometer, temperature, and fuel indicators.

In general, any part numbers with the -A31 suffix are specific to the CR cluster. All other part numbers are common to both the base and CR clusters. To get the peak power indicator, you only need to have the housing and circuit board (items 1 and 2 above). Unfortunately, that means that if you want the peak power indicator, you will need to transfer mileage and maintenance information to the new cluster (The Honda HIM tool does this for you).

Item 3 gives your car the CR look with the yellow details but is not required if all you want is the peak power indicator.

 

I knew I needed 78146 just wasn't sure if the casing was needed too. Thx. All 3 pieces still add up to cheaper than a used CR cluster and from what your saying Honda can transfer mileage and maintenance data over. I figured anything A31 was CR based. I honestly was just concerned with the lens cover to have the CR look, Good info thx again!!!