california vs federal emissions difference 88 crx hf

[bartsan]

I just bought an 88 crx hf from california. Does anyone know specifically the difference in the california emissions and the federal? I have read the transmission has a lower top gear and the ecu is different. Is there anything else?

[imzjustplayin]

I don't think so... but yeah the California has a final drive of 3.25 and the federal has a final drive of 2.95 so if you're looking for a fuel economy improvement at the cost of acceleration, just swap transmissions. I wouldn't even bother with the ECU because it's not like the Federal ones had lean-burn or anything significant fuel economy advantage besides the transmission. Now if you had a Civic VX, that would be a different story. Be sure to keep a fuel log here so we can see how you're doing and maybe can advise you if you're fuel economy is a bit low for the configuration you have. I wouldn't do any swap (though I'd buy the transmission) until your car is in tip top shape.