Hello all!
I'm the proud new owner of a 2005 NFR, 13k miles, and came with the factory hard top.

I have some questions that I'm hoping I can get some help with.
The first question is VERY important to me.

1. I need a car cover BAD! The past few years I have been using a CoverCraft Technalon Evolution cover, that I really like. The car is garaged, but the reason I want a cover is for the protection of dings. You know, just in case something gets knocked into it or a cat finds its claws on the top. The Technalon Evolution covers are very thick, and I know will serve my purpose, but does anyone know who makes, and what model the OEM cover is? I realize the OEM cover costs more, but the dealer can have it in one day, but if I order a CoverCraft, it will probably be over a week.

2. It's time to service the rear diff. Is this an easy task to do in my garage? Any special tools needed? Any tricks to make it easy? Suggested fluids? etc...? I'm pretty handy around tools and cars so I'm not afraid to get to work.

3. The rear bumper has separated from the right rear quarter panel. I know this is common, and I've seen a do it yourself fix for it, but has Honda recognized this yet? Should I fix it myself, or would Honda do something about it if I brought it in?

4. My right speaker is blown. What's a half way decent upgrade to the stock speakers? Not looking to put a system in, just would like to take care of the crackle sound.

5. Is there any reason to NOT use synthetic oil? Not looking for a debate here.

6. This question might be better suited for the autocross section, but I was wondering what a good street/autocross tire is and what tire pressure to run in AS? I figure I'll run street tires til I can get a handle on this car, then splurge for slicks.

 

1. OEM cover, much thinner and indoor only.

2. Check in the DYI section.

3. Common problem, nothing can be done.

4. I used the infinity reference series speakers. Nice sound and more volume with the stock power.

5. Synthetic ok if you have at least 10K on the motor.

6. No info.

 

1. See above.
2. Check Under The Hood forum's DIY section.
3. See above.
4. Check Electronics forum.
5. Check Under The Hood forum's Oil Journal
6. Check Wheels & Tires forum.

 

Thanks for the tips. I guess I'll just go ahead and order the CoverCraft Tehnolon Evolution cover. Unless someone has a better suggestion???

And where is the DIY forum? Is that the real name of it? I'm trying to find my way around here.

BTW: There does seem to be a "fix" of sort for the rear bumper facia problem.

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.ph...ic=311610&st=0

 

The DIY yourself section is in the "under the hood" part of the forum, here is a link you can use:

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=108435

Rear differential fluid change is quite easy to do.

They might try and fix the rear bumper, however you are probably best taking it to a body shop to see if they have any suggestions.

I dont really have any info on your other questions. Nice looking NFR

 

For the last question (though you'll get more answers in the wheel/tire section). Since you have an AP2, you have a few more tire options than I do in my AP1. Some of the best bang-for-the-buck performance tires you can get are the Falken Azenis RT615. Not great in the rain and they can get greasy on the track, so I've heard, but autocross is more or less their sweet spot. Should be able to get 225 in the front and 255 in the rear. Can always go with another brand like Bridgestone or Yokohama, but I seriously dont think you'll find a better performing street tire for less money than the Azenis.

Congrats on the new car. Enjoy it and be safe.

 

CobraTi, thanks. I was thinking about getting some 615's. I currently run 615's on a neon in STS trim and I've been happy with them. Thought there might be a better option for 17" tires. You're right though, 615's are hard to beat for the money.

I found the DIY thread. Thanks!!!

 

the OEM car cover is really soft on the inside. i like it however it IS only for indoor use. other car covers don't seem to be as soft so i dont like them.

 

If you didn't know, you can by lighter after market wheels in stock size for your AP2 and run it in AS. I would do the same but they don't make them in the AP1 size

As for the diff. fluid, I was able to change mine out without lifting the car, though I will probably jack it up next time.

Good luck with her.

 

Yeah, that's in the works, but for now I just want to learn to drive it. I'm used to wrong wheel drive.