Is there any cheap way to upgrade the 01 transmission to the 02? ie. is it one part..for some reason, the 02s seem to have a bit more low end. Also, is there a differace in the ECU that can be changed at the dealer?

 

What? There's no difference in the transmissions I'm aware of. Even '02 owners complain of the same grinds. I'm pretty certain the gearing didn't change at all.

The ECUs are different, but nothing to do with the transmission...

 

Actually the transmission and the shifter are "refined" for 2002 as per Honda literature. As an owner of an '02 I have NEVER experienced a problem with clutch slipage or grinds and I'm at 11,500 miles.

S2000 Roadster Continues To Set The Pace With New Features For 2002

Torrance, Calif. 09/07/2001 -- Moving into its third model year on the market, demand for Honda's sporty S2000 roadster shows no signs of slowing. With racing-inspired performance and handling, the S2000 charges ahead in 2002 with a number of refinements that have been high on customer "wish lists," including a glass rear window with defogger and a multitude of interior improvements such as an upgraded center console and door panel net storage pockets.

A true performance vehicle, the S2000 provides an exciting experience behind the wheel. The S2000 features sophisticated electric-assist power steering for rapid response and lighter weight. The 2002 S2000 is equipped with an improved transmission for smoother and quieter shifts. The S2000 also has a new high-capacity clutch.

The new S2000 receives a glass rear window equipped with defroster. Also new for this model year is an upgraded stereo system, enhanced to 30 watts per channel from 20. Door-mounted tweeters, an anti-theft feature and silver faceplate have been added to the S2000's sound system to enhance the look as well as the sound.

The S2000 employs a 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder compact engines that boasts the greatest output of any normally aspirated production vehicle on the road today. The S2000's engine meets California's Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Propelling from 0-60 mph in under six seconds, the S2000's 16-valve, DOHC (dual overhead cam) VTEC (variable valve timing and lift electronic control) engine is a true representation of Honda's rich racing heritage.

Metallic accents grace the exterior and interior for 2002, enhancing the distinct, sporty appearance of the S2000's strong, razor sharp features. Accented with chrome rings, the taillights have refined and polished look. The interior features are also accentuated with a metal finish - new aluminum and leather shift knob, aluminum accented foot rest and silver trim accents enrich the S2000's cabin.

For 2002, a striking new "Suzuka Blue" exterior color with blue interior joins Spa Yellow, Grand Prix White, Formula Red and Berlina Black. "Sebring Silver" will also join the S2000's color palate, replacing Silverstone Metallic.

For 2001, the S2000 roadster earned accolades from both the automotive press and public alike. The awards included:

* Car and Driver -- "10 Best"
* Ward's Auto World -- "One of the 10 Best Engines"

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by marcucci
[B]What? There's no difference in the transmissions I'm aware of. Even '02 owners complain of the same grinds. I'm pretty certain the gearing didn't change at all.

 

The "Improved Transmission" I am willing to bet came entirely from Honda's Marketing department and not the R&D group. Honda claimed for years to have changed the tranny in the Prelude and it had the same problems year after year.

FWIW, my '01 hasn't had ANY clutch problems (short of me getting air in the line) and has ground minimally; I can attribute the 1-2 grinding on me having quicker hands than feet while driving.

 

I've talked to a couple of people who have '00 or '01s and have driven the '02's and said the tranny is smoother.

You have to realize that quote said nothing about grinding, it was talking about the smoothness of the tranny.

Blake

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by infinitebass
[B]I've talked to a couple of people who have '00 or '01s and have driven the '02's and said the tranny is smoother.

You have to realize that quote said nothing about grinding, it was talking about the smoothness of the tranny.