Quote:
Originally Posted by SpeedyCorky
i might remove the power steering, still undecided. doing so is pretty low on the priority list. is there a thread somewhere that explains how to remove the system? did anyone do any before and after tests and measure a *substantial* MPG gain? if the answers to both is "yes", and if its not too much of a PITA, i might more seriously consider it...
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I can't say for the HX specifically, but the power steering pump in my Camry went bad, instead of fixing it, I removed the belt to it and instantly gained 2 mpg. Granted, you don't just want to remove the belt for a long term solution, but I seen many people leave fluid in their power steering equipped racks, remove the belt and pump, then add new hoses to the system allow the system to breath from a elevated spot in the engine bay. Apparently it works really well as it is sticky'ed on most Honda websites. Obviously you could also get a non power steering rack out of a DX or CX too, but that would be more involved.
Reducing the drag on your belt load really seems to impact the gas mileage in civics (as well as many other cars.) Just look at all the threads about not using/removing the AC or alternator. On a similar note, I would expect it to help the HX motor even more as drag on the engine pulls it out of lean burn as well. Reducing the drag potential could allow you to stay in lean burn longer. I know Civic VX folks with AC struggle to keep their cars going uphill and taking off the AC belt helps with this.
Hope to have more to report after I finish my HX engine swap in my 97 CX. Hopefully later this week!