James Tingley’s 2002 Honda Integra/Acura RSX Type-S

Words: Raymond Wu
Photos: Ginash George

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There are cars that have embedded themselves into history because of many different traits. Some cars are penned into the pages of history due to their speed. Some cars receive the distinction from its looks. But some cars receive the honor because they become the visage of an entire culture and lifestyle. The Honda Integra is one of those cars. In the last 20 years, the Honda Integra is one of the cars that defined the import tuning culture as a whole. The Integra is a car that has represented anyone from track junkies to SoCal trendsetters. James Tingley’s Honda Integra (Acura RSX) is a perfect example of how the car reflects a particular culture. In this case, his car is a perfect example of the tastes and styles of the JDM community.

Owner James is probably better known for his fondness of yellow cars having modified an Eclipse followed by a CRX for the show circuit. Being burnt out from years of building these two show cars, James looked into building a balanced daily driver. Searching around, he found a Nighthawk Black Pearl Honda Integra DC5 in Atlanta with nearly the full Comptech catalog dealer-installed. After driving it back to Chicago, the work began on turning the iconic Integra into the perfect daily driver.

James list of planned mods were quickly fulfilled in four months starting with the wheels. White Advan RCIIs shod in Nitto tires were the first to be installed on the car quickly followed by Powerslot rotors and Spoon Sports monoblock calipers. What followed were Tein Flex coilovers to give the DC5 a proper stance while other supplementary parts such as camber arms, tie rod ends and a front strut bar aids in tuning the suspension to James’ preferences.

In the engine bay the DC5’s already formidable K20 was supplemented by a Jackson Racing supercharger. Air is supplied by a custom carbon pipe feeding an ARC intake box. The aforementioned factory installed Comptech components in the engine bay consists of headers and exhaust. Visually, the engine was then dressed up with carbon fiber valve and plug covers along with various Spoon accessories. Getting the 270HP from the engine to the wheels is an upgraded 6-speed row-your-own transmission with an Exedy lightweight flywheel and ceramic clutch. The LSD from a Type-R DC5 and a modified J’s Racing torque damper were added to aid in traction.

Moving to the car’s exterior, James decided to keep his Integra clean and simple. Aftermarket components include a Chargespeed front bumper cover, side skirts and rear lip. A Seibon carbon fiber hood replaced the stock one. James then swapped in the ’05 Integra headlights for a smoother heads-on look. An authentic DC5 Type-R rear spoiler was added to complete the car’s exterior. The result is surprisingly aggressive without being exuberant. The Integra’s clean lines were kept intact while all the JDM goodies differentiate this Integra from a vanilla one.

But James doesn’t stop there with the JDM goodies. Inside, authentic DC5 Type-R front seats produced by Recaro were sourced and installed. These seats offer better support while weighing less than the normal Integra seats – perfect for the track while still being comfortable for daily use. Another Type-R item found inside is the Momo steering wheel whose smaller size and tactile feedback provide an improved feel. Type-R door sills also found their way inside along with other dress up items including a Skunk2 shift knob and Integra door sills. An Autometer boost gauge allows James to keep tabs on the amount of power his supercharger is putting out.

James has long finished his Integra despite the fact that it has never been repainted yellow. The car hasn’t been touched in the last two years and James is looking into NSXs and Elises for a new project car. Nevertheless, his Integra DC5 represents a particular style of modding and tuning. James attention to detail and his selection of JDM goods create an Integra that offers excellent street performance and an improved clean look while retaining comfort. So while DC5s are relatively commonplace on the streets of the Chi, James took the iconic Integra and turned it into something entirely his and his alone.

-JDM Chicago

Modifications List

Wheels/Tires:

• Advan RCII rims, 18 x 8.5 + 31
• Nitto Neo Gen tires, 215 40 R18
• Volk lug nuts “long”

Brakes:

• Spoon monoblock calipers
• Powerslot rotors with custom dimpling (14”F/12”R)

Suspension:

• Tein Flex coilovers
• T1R inverted tie rod ends
• Mugen front strut bar
• SPC rear camber arms

Engine and Transmission:

• Jackson Racing supercharger (4″ pulley)
• ARC intake box
• Custom made carbon intake tube
• Vision carbon manifold cover (modfied to fit w/supercharger)
• Password JDM plug cover
• Tein hood dampers
• Hondata intake manifold gasket
• Type R valve cover
• Spoon oil / radiator caps and socks
• Comptech “shorty” header
• Comptech cat back exhaust
• “Brando” bracket (belt tensioner)
• J’s Racing torque damper (modified to fit w/supercharger)
• Exedy light weight flywheel
• Exedy 3 puck ceramic clutch
• Type-R LSD

Exterior:

• ‘05 headlight conversion – OEM Honda w/8000k HID
• ChargeSpeed front bumper cover
• ChargeSpeed sides and rear lip
• Seibon carbon hood
• Type-R spoiler
• S2000 marker lights

Interior:

• Type-R Recaro seats
• Vision lowered seat rails (driver side)
• Type R door inserts
• Autometer boost gauge
• Integra door sills
• Type R steering wheel
• Skunk 2 shift knob
• Iphone dock directly linked into the head unit

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Nick Weir’s 2003 Honda Ruckus

Words: Mark Waterman
Photos: Matt Magnino

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What has two wheels, a seat, a small motor and is something that you won’t be embarrassed to be caught riding? Everyone will have their own unique response, but in this case it would be Nick Weir’s 2003 Honda Ruckus. The first question that may pop up: What exactly is a Ruckus? No – it’s not a lawnmower motor with a seat. Nor is it Honda’s answer for the Smart ForTwo. The Honda Ruckus is actually a motor scooter powered by a single cylinder 4-stroke engine displacing 49cc. Like most forms of transportation Honda builds, there are as many ways to modify this scooter as there are a Civic. Thus, a cornerstone of the Ruckus lifestyle is crafting a unique and personalized look for your scooter.

It is this distinctive lifestyle that attracted Nick to the Ruckus. After wanting a Ruckus for a couple of years, Nick finally got the opportunity to own one in July of this year. To acquire the Ruckus, he traded his 2000 Integra GSR for the scooter. While this may seem like an odd trade, the car was bought as theft recovery car that he intended to fix up. When the opportunity presented itself, the car had been sitting idly for two months. The decision was easy, and soon the scooter replaced the Integra in Nick’s garage.

When he took possession of the scooter, it had already had a few modifications. But Nick felt that they didn’t quite fit his style. The motor had previously been replaced with a GY6 motor that displaces 150cc. The frame had been painted the same Tahitian green from EF Civics. The Ruckus also had a handful of parts from NCY including a rear coilover, lowered seat frame, clutch spring, header, roller weights, and a titanium BMC cover. Controlling the power is a NCY throttle linked to the motor with a blue throttle cable for the GY6. From that base, Nick decided it was time for his own modifications to turn the scooter from a customized Ruckus to Nick’s customized Ruckus. On the lighting side of things, Kijima amber front turn signals, and a rear taillight from a Yamaha R1 were added to the Ruckus. Nick then swapped out the front brake setup with a carbon fiber and titanium kit from NCY. As with most Hondas, the lower the better. So, the front spring was cut to lower the front end. To better the performance, a new velocity stack from Stage 6 was installed. Bits from PWJDM were also installed including a carbon fiber air scoop, carbon fiber gas tank cover, foot pegs, and stem kit. Keeping tabs on the bike is a Koso digital gauge. Contact with the road is accomplished with a Michelin Bopper tire in the front and a Cheng tire in the rear.

Initially, the Ruckus was intended as transportation to and from work for Nick. It also had the distinction of being pit transportation for the Redline time attack team. But after going on a series of cruises with local Ruckus enthusiasts, Nick realized that his Ruckus was far from done. Some of the other Ruckus owners had much quicker scooters. Not wanting to be left behind, Nick decided that a new 180cc big bore motor would be on the slate for the winter. Also to be done this winter is repair frame repair and reinforcement after it cracked on one of the Ruckus cruises. Nick is also planning on lowering the scooter even further. Even though he has only had the scooter for a few months, Nick has already given his own twist on it with the help of Totalruckus.com, the Seen It! Crew, and GT Motoring. If you happen to come across Nick, or any other Ruckus rider, stop them and ask them about their ride. While there may never be two Ruckuses that look the same, they do all share one commonality: Every rider loves their little Honda scooters.

-JDM Chicago

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iLLest Integra

Armando Nanalig’s 2000 Integra Type R (Owner of iLL Garage)

Words: Ginash George
Photos: Brad Sillars

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If you’re a product of the 80’s, who could ever forget 1985? Ronald Reagan was sworn in for his second term, Nintendo was born, ”Back to the Future” was a box office phenomenon, and the Integra debuted in Japan. As the luxury division of Honda, Acura strategically priced and marketed this entry-level fwd sports car in the US. A strong and almost cult-like following soon developed, and it still continues to be a favorite to tuners world-wide.

The even sportier and more refined Integra Type-R (ITR) was released in 1997. Limited and rare, it sold well until it was finally discontinued in 2001. Armando Nanalig is an O.G. Type R owner, lucky enough to pick his “R” in 2000. The vehicle continues to be  highly sought after, especially a proper example as showcased here.

As one of the owners of iLL Garage, Armando Nanalig knew he needed a car to market his tuner company. The plan was simple: Purchase every conceivable modification known to man, and justify the parts as a “write off” to the significant other. One caveat however;  no cheap parts, authentic JDM goodies, and maintain his vision of purpose, form, and beauty.

Many people do not know that the Type R’s B18C5 engine is merely a tuned version of Honda’s GS-R’s B18C1. If Mr. Honda could see what Armando did to his B18C5, I think he would applaud the level of detail and care Armando took in building his rock solid engine.

When Armando initially purchased his Type R, he had some lofty goals in mind. In order to perfectly balance his power addiction,  Armando realized that the stock motor needed some minor alterations. Outfitted with bullet-proof engine components, no expenses were spared. This Golden Eagle Sleeved B18c5 block features JE 84mm 9:1 pistons, JE X-rings, Eagle H beam Rods, JDM OEM Honda CTR Cams, AEBS Head studs, and much more. But why go to such extremes? When you’re pushing 461 ponies, a fully built motor is almost a necessary evil.

Some cars are destined to live a naturally aspirated life. Point A to Point B. With the mod bug in Armando’s blood, forced induction was his destinty. Armando took a different approach with the FI build. Instead of looking at a typical “cookie cutter” kit, he went ahead and picked some of the best parts for the “R.” It has been speculated that Armando coined the term “Overnighting Parts from Japan.” Custom piping along with plenty of safety/cooling modifications makes this Integra an absolute beast on the track. Best run so far has been 11.73 @ 128mph.

Along with a beefed up engine, Armando needed to bulk up the drivetrain and transmission components in order to handle the extra power.  The Competition Clutch Twin Disk Racing clutch is more then capable of managing the 400+HP that Armando is pushing. This in conjunction with some smooth shifting is facilitated by the DC Sports short shifter.

One can argue that the aesthetics and the lines of a car is what initially grabs your attention. This stayed true to Armando. Armando always loved the design of the Integra, but wanted to personalize the car in order to accentuate it’s features and to improve the aerodynamics. Exterior enhancements include a variety of JDM Integra parts as well as select aero components in order to improve performance. If you look at the car from a distance, you can appreciate the subtle modifications and almost “stock like”  appearance of the build.  This is one Integra that appears it came right off of an assembly line.

Armando is somewhat of a practical man. “Everyone needs two sets of shoes.” This rule not only applies to himself, but also to his vehicles. A set of 16″ Volk Racing/Rays TE37’s are laced with a custom sunset gold finish. A second set of Volk RE30’s were ordered in mercury silver. Both wrapped with Hankooks.

When Armando needs to catch his breath, he relies on a set of JDM Spoon 4 piston caliper with Brembo Sport Cross Drilled rotors.  Hawk Street Brake Pads provide plenty of grip and it’s reputation of low dust keep his wheels looking fresh and clean. Armando’s interior is a virtual playground of JDM toys. Outsourcing JDM ITR parts is not easy, but Armando managed to score a pleathora of  parts including; a Stitch Shift Boot, SRS Steering Wheel, Center Console Delete, Center Console Badge, Fog Light Switch, Black Recaro front seats with red stitching, floor mats, and trunk mat. If their is a shortage of JDM ITR parts in the country, now you know where they all went.

With only one future goal  in mind “Going faster,” it will be treat to see what Armando has in store with his ITR. As long as he keeps it clean and maintains his vision, JDM Chicago looks forward to future updates as Armando’s Integra continues to evolve. The question is…what happens after he runs out of mods?

-JDM Chicago

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Modification List

Exterior Enhancements:
USDM OEM Honda Optional Side skirts
USDM OEM Hond Optional Rear Valences
JDM OEM Honda 98 spec ITR HID Front End Conversion
JDM OEM Honda ITR Front Lip
JDM OEM Honda ITR Rear Tail Lamps
JDM OEM Honda Rear Red H Emblem
EDM HONDA Badge
JDM OEM Honda ABS LSD DOHC VTEC Glass Decals
JDM Vision TypeMC Carbon Fiber Mirrors
JDM Honda Access Visors
Custom Shaved front license plate holder
Invidia Carbon Fiber Hood
Composite-Fab Carbon fiber Roof Cap
Seibon Carbon fiber Type R Wing
Benen Rear tow hook

Suspension /Chassis:
JDM Zeal/Endless B2B Coilover suspension with Pillow Mounts
Comptech Rear lower Brace (polished)
Benen stainless B Pillar Bar
JDM J’s Racing C Pillar Tie Bar
JDM Mugen Titanium Front Upper Tie Bar
JDM Mugen Titanium Rear Upper Tie Bar
JimFab Traction Bars
JimFab Torque Mounts
Hasport Aluminum Race Motor Mounts
JDM OEM Honda 23mm ITR Swaybar

Transmission:
Competition Clutch Twin Disk Racing clutch
Stainless Steel Clutch Line
Energy Suspension Shifter Bushing
DC Sports short shifter

Wheels, tires & Brakes:
JDM Spoon 4 piston caliper
Brembo Sport Cross Drilled rotors
Hawk Street Brake Pads
Super Blue ATE Brake Fluid
16″ Custom Powdercoated Sunset Gold JDM Volk Racing/Rays TE-37 Wheels
16” MQ Silver Volk Rays RE30s
Hankook RS232 215/45/16 Tires
ARP Extended front lugnuts
Rays Blue Extended Duranuts in Rear
Titek Extended Open lugnuts in Front

Interior Enhancements:
JDM OEM Honda ITR red Stitch Shift Boot
JDM OEM Honda ITR SRS Steering Wheel
JDM OEM Honda ITR Center Console Delete
JDM OEM Honda ITR Center Console Badge
JDM OEM Honda ITR Fog Light Switch
JDM OEM Honda ITR Black Recaro front seats with red stitching
Spoon Sports 98 Spec ITR Guage Cluster
USDM OEM Honda ITR Floor Mats
USDM OEM Honda ITR Trunk Mat
Top Shop Interiors Carbon Fiber Cargo Cover
Top Shop Interiors Carbon Fiber Headliner
Momo Phantom Carbon Shift knob
JDM Razo Carbon Fiber Pedals

Engine Management:/ Electronics Enhancements:
AEM EMS 30-1050 V1.19
FJO Wide Band NTK o2 Sensor with control unit and LCD display
Greddy Turbo Timer
Greddy Electronic Boost Gauge
Greddy Electronic Fuel Pressure Gauage
Greddy Electronic Oil Pressure Gauage

ICE:
Kenwood Excelon MP922 Head unit
Kenwood 6 ½” Front and Rear 2 way speakers

Engine Performance Enhancements:

Block:
Golden Eagle Sleeved B18c5 84mm block
JE 84mm 9:1 pistons
JE X-rings
Eagle H beam Rods
Micropolished OEM B18c5 Crank
ACL Main and Rod Bearings
OEM Honda Oil Pump
OEM Honda Water Pump

Cylinder Head:
USDM OEM Honda 2000 Stock B18C5 Head
Port flow inner valve springs
JDM OEM Honda CTR Cams
STR Cam Seal
Cometic MLS Head Gasket
AEBS Head studs
Edelbrock Victor X Polished Intake Manifold
USDM ITR Throttle Body

Forced Induction:
Custom Stainless Steel t3 Top Mount Manifold Jet-Hot Powder coated Silver Aluminum
Custom 3″ Stainless Steel Downpipe, Jet-Hot Coated Silver Aluminum
Precision Turbo SC61 Turbo Jet-Hot Coated Silver Aluminum Hotside
Tial 44mm V-Band Wastegate 8psi spring
PWR Performance 24×8x3 intercooler core
Blitz DD BOV
Custom 3” Aluminum Cold Side IC Piping
Custom 2.5” Aluminum Hot Side IC Piping
ATP 3-ply silicone couples
ATP T-bolt clamps
Greddy Oil Sandwich adapter
Stainless Steel Teflon -3an Oil feed and -10an return line
Stainless Steel Teflon Lined Fuel Lines
Endyn Catch Can
Thermal 3″ SS Turbo Catback Exhaust

Cooling:
C&R Racing Civic Aluminum Radiator with Spal fan
C&R Racing Silicone Radiator Hoses
JDM Spoon Race Thermostat
JDM Spoon Thermostat Switch
JDM Spoon Radiator stay bracket
Redline Watter Wetter
Rear Hood vent
Annodized Blue Aluminum overflow tank

Fuel & Spark:
Greddy 720cc injectors
OEM Honda injector resistor box
AEM Fuel Filter (red)
AEM Fuel Rail (red)
Aeromotive Fuel Pressure Regulator (red)
Walbro 255 lph High Pressure Intank Fuel Pump
NGK Blue wires
NGK BKR7E Spark Plugs
GM 3 Bar Map Sensor

Engine Accessories:
PasswordJDM Polished Hood Dampers
PasswordJDM Carbon Kevlar Spark Plug cover
Datum1 Vtec Solenoid polished Aluminum cover
AEM Underdrive PS Pulley
JDM Spoon Magnetic Drain bolts
JDM OEM Honda ITR Red Valve Cover
JDM OEM Honda CTR Oil Cap
JDM Spoon Reservoir Covers

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