1991 Honda CRX Rallycross Build

In 2021 I decided to build a race car. The goal was a simple car that would give me safe, reliable seat time for rallycross events. I got my hands on a 1991 Honda CRX HF - the fuel efficient trim boasting over 50mpg and the lightest chassis at just shy of 2,000lbs wet. It may have been the best decision I've ever made.

First order of business - rip the tired motor out and stick something good in.

I found a complete D16A6 (si motor) with bent valves for $50 and a short ratio si transmission for $250. This would be a direct bolt in swap that nearly doubled the horsepower and significantly improved gear ratios.

I rebuilt the motor myself with all new bearings, piston rings and a fresh hone, of course new valves to replace the bent ones, and even got the head resurfaced by a local shop.

At this point, I needed an engine mount that didn't exist - I also got some Megan Racing headers for free that needed a flange welded on. I picked up a Harbor Freight flux core welder and began my first ever welds. I do not miss that thing.

Next up, suspension and brakes. I sourced poly bushings for less flex, some cheapie dampers and brakes too. The previous owner did some impressive damage to this car. Check out the buckling on one of the old shock absorbers - two mode buckling on the body of a shock! I imagine someone needed a change of pants after that incident.

As a novice welder, I made the decision to pay a 'professional' to build a cage. I made the mistake of leaving the car with someone far less skilled than they claimed to be. After months, the car was returned to me with numerous incomplete welds, tube members that completely blocked my field of view but hit my helmet in normal driving, and paint just about everywhere but where it should have been. Let this be a cautionary tale. I ended up getting my money back and turning it into a half cage.

From there, I really just drove the car and honed in my skills. It's just a CRX HF/SI hybrid. There may not be a more reliable type of track car on the planet.

Eventually the car got some solid 200 treadwear tires and I got more confident. After probably 30 track days without car problems, I was able to win a championship at Brianne Corn's rallycross series for 2023 (prepared 2wd)! There's no way that would have happened with car problems. Thanks, Honda!