Thank you.
I bought my s2000 two years ago, with 58, xxx miles. It has 73, xxx miles now, mostly high way.
According to the records, it has the original clutch. It's not giving me any problems so far.
When the time comes, should I have the clutch replaced at the dealer or put a new one in with the help of my mechanic friends?

 

I'd generally avoid the dealer whenever possible! Not to say there aren't some good technicians out there, their just few and far between.

In addition, since the s2000 is a bit of a rare bird, most will have very limited experience with them (so they're probably learning on your car).






You may want to check your regional forum to see if there is a recommended mechanic. That's what I did for upgrading to AP2 valve retainers (have you done that?) and a new clutch. I've learned a ton in the last few years, and love doing my own work, but felt better having a pro tackle those two important jobs.

 

You could do the clutch yourself. It's not too difficult, just time consuming. There is a good DIY on this site and have the factory service manual on hand as well.

 

How many guys tried oil changes as a first DIY on the s2k? Any other good starter fixits that a beginner can do on the s2k?

 

S2000.club [Your Honda S2000 Resource]

Has a bunch of pdfs with how-to for beginners

Brakes, fluids, plugs etc.
Start small and involve some friends and then work your way up

 

I guess my wife will have to be that "friend."

 

You recommend a "tool set?"

 

An oil change is an easy "first DIY" maintenance job for the S2000. Needs only a single socket wrench for the drain plug, a $6 cap-style oil filter wrench (80mm x 15 flute CTA A257) from AutoZone, and a $15 3/8" Harbor Freight torque wrench for both the drain bolt and filter. And something to catch the oil as it drains. Local Honda dealer probably has the specific filter and drain bolt washer in stock. How you get under the car is up to you but since the car need not be level you can use ramps or even a curb . The gearbox and differential require the car to be level to properly fill them so jacks, jackstands, or a lift are required. As well as different wrenches.

-- Chuck

 

Make sure you get the correct filter (15400-PCX-004). Even many dealers put the wrong on one!

 

I installed a Fumoto valve (Don't get a look alike) to make draining easy; I can do it from the engine bay without the car getting lifted in any way. I slide an aluminum chafing pan under to catch the oil. With the Fumoto you can drain exactly what you want so you don't worry about overfilling the pan. No more dropped bolts in hot oil.