A quote from hondanews.com in reference for changes made in '04 (difference between ap1 and ap2)

"Revised Electrically Powered Steering (EPS) programming with optimized steering gearbox ratios and enhanced steering bushing rigidity"

At no point did they mention the steering rack, so I am curious if there is actually much if any difference between the two, or if it is simply a reprogramming of the ecu for the electric power assist that needs to be replaced/reprogrammed.

Which brings up the next question, is this controlled by the main ecu, or does it have it's own dedicated unit? My guess would be it has its own since I haven't heard of anyone who has an aem ems having to program their steering assist, which then leads me to believe that you may just be able to swap the ecu from an ap1 if you want.

 

"Optimized steering gearbox ratios" implies the physical rack and pinion were changed.

 

Can I ask why people do this?

 

instead of turning the wheel 1 full turn to make a left, you turn it 0.9 turns

or something like that... i think u only really see a benefit on the track with tight turns

 

AP1 has the faster ratio right?

 

yeah I would like to know the OP's justification for wanting to change the steering ratio

 

My bad, wasn't reading straight this morning, a few cups of coffee and some walking around help cleared out my head

 

AP1 has quicker ratio than AP2

 

A quicker steering ratio would make the car a tad more sensitive to steering input - not a deal breaker by any means but it might enhance the driving experience.

Yes, AP1s have a quicker steering ratio than AP2s - I believe it is 13.1 instead of 14.1, BUT according to Honda, they "slower steering ratio" on the AP2s is compensated for by the fact that the front tires have a wider footprint. So in effect, the net change is supposed to be zero.

 

I don't believe Honda has ever mentioned this. Do you have proof of this or are you spouting off random BS?