we have the 'wetokole' seatcovers (fnt and back) on our '03 crv-ex, which we purchased from the hawai istore. It is custom made for whatever vehicle and they do made the side air bag cut-outs so that one's airbags will not be worthless.
It is made of waterproof /neoprene material with padding. It looks real good in black with the logo, however one does lose the access to the back storage areas of the front seats (unless you go to a upholsterer to modify it slightly).
check out the wetokole.com website.
"okole" is Hawaiian for 'one's behind/derriere"
It cost over $520 for front and back seats (it covers everything---seats, backs, headrests, arm rests. The wait was about 4 weeks from date of purchase to installation by the manufacturer.
Has any one installed the K&N typhoon or any other short horn intake on their CRV? Any other aftermarket intakes with air filter? I'm wondering if there is an improvement in horsepower/gas mileage with the intake modification.
Does anywone know if it's ok to put Armorall or equivalent on the CRV dash? I can't tell what material it's made of--doesn't feel exactly like plastic. Is it painted [gasp]?
Has anyone ordered and/or have already installed that $4.00 item for the CR-V that's being sold on E-Bay which one attaches to the electronics? Says it can be removed within minutes if you plan to sell your vehicle.
I installed the keyless entry kit on my 2003 CR-V LX this morning. It was very easy.
You have to remove the "Dashboard Pocket" which is the storage compartment(for CD's) below the radio. That looked difficult but turned out to be simple. You remove the self tapping screw from the back of the compartment, then just give the unit some light tugs and it pops right out.
Installing the receiver takes about 10 seconds once you get the CD compartment out of the way.
Training the remotes is easy, but it took me about three tries on the procedure before I did it fast enough to actually trigger the training effect.
I am glad I did it myself. I feel like I accomplished something.
I got the keyless entry kit from cheaphondaparts.com for $92.75 + 12.95 shipping.
Howzit, Hawaiiguy. I'm thinking of buying a CRV (really want a Lexus RX but can't afford it) but I'm concerned about the power. I drive over H3 everyday and wonder if a 4 cylinder is sufficient. (I have a V6 Camry.) Have you ever driven over H3? Also, where did you purchase your CRV? Did you get a good deal? You can email me at quackamoley@hotmail.com since this isn't really the appropriate discussion area. (Just happened to see your name here.) Thanks. Linda
We just bought our CR-V EX on July 7th and love it. We have ordered the cargo cover and all season floor mats through midlandshondaparts.com in So. Carolina. They gave us prices $54.80 less than our dealers list (and non negotiable)prices.
Hi Im from the philippines and here in manila,me and my friends put 18 inch mags on our 2003 crv's the ride becomes better, and the only model available here is 2wd, with a third row seat, the third row seat is very useful. and the front and rear bumpers are colored, e-mail me at francisgo2000@yahoo.com if you want pictures, so you can see the crv's here are nice. :-)
I thought I had seen the following question in an earlier post, but I can't find it.
I'm looking at getting the cargo tray for my one day old '03 CRV LX. Someone in an earlier mentioned getting a cargo tray that was more nonslip....sort of a rubbery material, than the Honda tray which was plastic and had a tendency to let things slide around on turns.
Anyone have a comment on the "slipperiness" factor of the Honda cargo tray versus aftermarket trays. If I'm misinformed and the Honda tray does not let things slide around, then I'll stick with OEM tray.
Second question. If I order a Honda subwoofer and tweeter set on the Internet, and bring it in to the dealer for install, do they charge me extra because they are losing their markup on the parts, or might they refuse to install it? Any experiences out there?
Has anyone modified their '02+ CR-V to get a more sporty ride?
I live in San Jose, CA and have asked a local shop called Speed Merchant about this. Bottom line: lowering the car 1.8 inches, stiffening the suspension, getting larger wheels/tires (18") will go for about $2500 (max. estimate).
My questions for all out there:
1) Has anyone done a similar mod, and what was your experience with the final outcome?
2) Does this sound like it's a decent deal price-wise? (I know it really depends on the actual parts they put in, which rims/tires I get, etc. I just want to know it it seems reasonably in the ballpark.)
3) Re: acceleration, has anyone had any luck bumping up that up? What mods would you recommend?
I own an Ex 03 CRV and noticed the floor mats wear quickly. Does anyone have the all season mats offered by Honda (or HandA-Accessories.com)?I saw on SUV Xcessories.com,a Husky mat for the front and the rear. Seemed like it was a heaver rubberized mat. Any feedback would be appreciative. Thanks.
Has anyone installed the side steps on the 2003 crv? I'm going to do it myself. There're 12 flange bolts to be installed each side. I just check the underside of the body, only one row of 6 holes each side. Where are the remains, another row of 6 holes?
Sorry, haven't a clue what you're talking about as I haven't installed side steps. However, http://www.handa-accessories.com/crv.html has instructions on line for installation of the accessories they sell. Perhaps a look at their instructions will help?
Or, email the manufacturer of the steps you bought and ask them.
I have the running boards on my 03 EX. They have worked great for my 5 year old. I'm sure side steps will work just as fine or maybe even better. I personally prefer the look of the CRV with running boards than with side steps (thats why I chose them).
Hi to al, What about I did wax my cr-v and I touched the trim; so now I have this small piece that look a lil white. What can i use to clean the trim from the wax. Greetings, fig.
Although I've never tried this myself, I've heard that applying creamy peanut butter with an old toothbrush will remove wax residue from side moldings, etc., and it gives it a nice sheen also. As it's a natural product, I doubt it would hurt to try. However, your neighbors might think you bit odd spreading PB on your CR-V. ;-)
It works as a very mild abrasive. I once used it to clean tape residue off a spare tire cover that I was painting. I've been told that toothpaste also works.
While I'm sure PB would work, you can also use ordinary household cleaners with strong degreaser ingredients. Simple Green is an effective one, but be careful with it. That stuff will eat the plastic if you leave it too long. Wipe with it, then rinse the area with clean water.
I agree with Varmint. I had the same problem with mine, and used diluted Simple Green to remove the white residue from the black plastic trim. However, be aware that Simple Green will also strip the wax from the paint, so try not to get it on the paint because then you'd need to re-wax, which opens up the possibility of getting wax on the plastic, requiring that you use Simple Green to remove it...
jjsb31- I ordered the floor mats for $83 two weeks ago from hondapartsforyou.com. I checked all the accessory suppliers' links and they won out on price, and shipping was only $3.95. (I also ordered the front splash guards for $38. They were included in the same $3.95 shipping price even though it was a separate package.) They're in Danbury, CT and I'm in Virginia. Regular UPS delivery got it to me two days after I had ordered it. With that kind of service, they'll get my business again.
The mats are heavy duty, have a "CRV" embossed logo and look great. Two separate mats for the front and one long one that covers the entire back seat floor area. They have spikes to keep them from slipping, and for added measure, the driver's mat has two small holes in the side closest to the driver that attach to two hooks at the bottom of the seat on the floor. This eliminates the "creep" forward that sometimes occurs with floor mats from lots of foot activity accelerating and braking. They also have a slight lip that would help contain a drink spill or water brought in by feet during rain. I initially thought the $83 was kind of high, but they are quality and should last quite a long time.
Installing the splash guards was pretty easy,but I did have trouble unscrewing one of the self-tapping screws. It turned, but it simply didn't want to unscrew. I don't want to go into details about how I solved the problem, because it's too painful. It involved a hacksaw.
I have both the leather cover and the cargo cover, and both are great. I find my steering wheel to be much easier to grip, and the rear cargo cover installs in 5 minutes, has a storage indent on the cargo floor (to hold it in place when it is not being used as a cover), and is really useful. I can place anything I want back there and it is out of sight.
The only caveat is that the cargo cover squeaks a little bit due to the connection to the rear headrests. It doesn't bother me, so I haven't tried to fix it.
I have the leather wheel cover and like it well enough. Just make sure you don't leave any extra thread tucked under the wrap (the leather will mold itself to the shape like ring around the wallet).
I don't have the cargo cover. I fold the seats down much too frequently. It would just get in the way.
No, the spare tire will not fit under the picnic table.. It will just come on the back with a soft cover.... The problem with the sunroof is not the airflow, but the thrumming noise the air makes as it passes over the opening.. I crack the rear windows to alleviate this.. I'm not sure what effect the visor would have on that, but it would probably help.
The cover has two retractible pieces that clip onto the rear headrests. You could actually leave the thing installed and still drop the seats. It will stay up by itself.
The Deflector works great! It has taken all of the "wind" noise out of the vehicle. I am not having to turn up the stereo anymore. It was worth the investment.
I also have the leather steering wheel cover. It was easy to put on.
Question:::::
I am thinking about larger wheels/tires. Has anyone done this? If so, Did you do a larger spare tire as well? If so, Did you mount it onto the back of the vehicle, and can you still open the back hatch window?
I saw some dicussions on www.hondasuv.com regarding putting on a larger wheel. Basically the problem is that the odometer and speedometer readings become innaccurate and it may mess up the shift point of the automatic transmission. Anyway, check that website and there is a pretty good post about it.
Here is a post I bookmarked discussing tire/wheel upgrades to CRV:
102 of 196 kyfdx - #80 - Tire size upgrade by reiner4 Nov 01, 2002 (4:57 am) Per your request looking for anyone upgrading to 16 inch wheels/215-60-16 tires:
I'm running my '99 EX with Konig Diva 16x7 wheels and Michelin Symmetry 215x60x16 tires (including the spare). It's a drastic improvement over the stock setup, with the stance of the vehicle feeling more nimble and sure. I have not experienced any impairment, but with the nicer wheels I'm less likely to do any more offroading.
To top it off, I have a Neuspeed Front Tower Bar which holds the front down nicely when cornering, eliminating a lot of the body roll.
3 years and 60K miles later this vehicle still rocks - best I've ever bought !! Hope that helps... Rich
------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------- #103 of 196 reiner4..Thanks by kyfdx Nov 01, 2002 (1:03 pm) Thanks for the info. A few more questions. Have you run this setup in the snow? Any traction issues? Also, have you noticed any deterioration in gas mileage? Any particular reason on tire choice, and what do you think of them? I really appreciate your response, as that is pretty much the setup I am considering. Except I'm looking at Honda Pilot wheels, which have identical offset/bolt pattern, and are 16 x 6.5
I also think I might go with a little more aggressive H-speed rated tire, like the Bridgestone Turanza. Real world advice is appreciated.. thanks a lot
------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------- #104 of 196 kyfdx - wheels / tires (continued) by reiner4 Nov 03, 2002 (5:19 pm) In response to your questions....
Have you run this setup in the snow? * I've only had this setup for several months now and living in the SF Bay Area has not provided for any snow tests to date.
Any traction issues? * I think it has made for better traction - if anything. Like I mentioned previously, the vehicle feels like it has a more nimble yet 'sure' footing.
......have you noticed any deterioration in gas mileage? * None to mention. I still average between 22 and 24 mpg, depending on my driving ! 8-)
Any particular reason on tire choice, and what do you think of them? * I have the Michelin Symmtry's on my '02 Odyssey EXL-RES and really liked 'em. My original plan was to put the Odyssey's wheels / tires on my 'V', and upgrade the same for the Ody. Needless to say, the wife vetoed my tinkering with her brand new vehicle! My dream is still to upgrade the Ody to 17" or 18" wheels......dream on....
I had considered going up to 17" or 18" wheels on the 'V', but as my daily driver (+/- 85 miles round trip to/from work), I did not want to spare any comfort....especially just for looks. The 16" setup has proven to be very functional, with some flair.
Also, look into the Neuspeed Front Tower Bar for +/- $100 - it makes a nice difference in taking offramps and other turns that are conducive to body roll. Hope that helps and good luck !!
I've got it. It's nice, does what it's supposed to. No big deal. I've noticed it keeps the vehicle a little quieter when in place.
FYI there is a place to store it on the floor. Ya know how it's spring loaded to fit in the notches on top of the cargo area? Well, there are notches on the floor for it too. So, if you pick up something tall, you have a handy place to put the cover without taking up passenger area.
Gringo: Thanks for retrieving that discussion.. I still haven't done it.. waiting for my current Duelers to wear out...21K so far on them.. Looks like only good for 30-35K.
kentkmok: I wouldn't replace the spare. If you go with 215-60/16 size, then the rolling diameter will be the same.. Your odometer/speedometer readings will not vary, and you could use your spare for short periods as the 205-70/15 has the same rolling diameter.
Gringo1: Check out www.handa-accessories.com. I used them a couple years ago for my Odyssey, and plan to use them with my upcoming CRV purchase. Good prices and service. Most installation manuals are online so you can assess your handy-man abilities in advance .... like, is this really something I want to do myself??? Most installs are quite straightforward.
You could also tell your dealer which accessories you want, tell him if he can do it for under a certain price, he gets the business, otherwise, you buy it from H and A. Worth a shot.
Kentmonk - The leather steering wheel cover is not difficult to install, but it can be irritating. Fitting and stitching it is easy. The thing that makes it annoying is the fact that the waxed thread will start to cut your hands if you don't wear thick gloves.
Stevedebi - My most common cargo is a pair of greyhounds. The cargo cover crossing over the compartment would be a problem for them.
Ivcvi - You asked about the hitch and hitch basket. Here's the story. Keep in mind, I have a '99 model, so details for the 2nd generation CR-V may vary.
I had to get mine ASAP as I was supposed to be hauling more dogs than usual on a 300 mile trip this weekend. I went through a local retailer for the basket (Racksmith, very professional group). I had to order the hitch from Hitchesonline.com (a no fuss experience). Anyway, here's what I've learned about hitches...
Putnam Hitch The Putnam appears to be the best of the class one hitches (1 1/4 inch receiver). Model number 55141 is the one that fits the CR-V. I like this hitch because it attaches to the frame, does not require drilling, and it does not use the towing/tie down loop that is under the bumper. This hitch tends to be about $20-30 more expensive than others. I wanted the this one, but could not have it delivered soon enough for my trip this weekend.
HiddenHitch This is the hitch that I bought. The HiddenHitch also makes use of the "frame rails" in the back of the CR-V. It does not require drilling, but you may have to enlarge a hole or two to get the hardware to fit. I used a wrench and a little elbow grease to make the hole wider. Just make sure you repaint any exposed metal before installing the hitch. This hitch does have an anchor point that uses the tow/tie down loop under the bumper. One word of caution. Make sure you line up the hitch before you start working under the car. The installation instructions are deceptive about which holes you will need to use. This hitch is model 60907.
DrawTite Hitch IMHO, this is the worst of the lot for my purposes. It's a nice dirt cheap hitch and is probably good for light use (ski or bike racks). However, it requires drilling for installation and two of the three mounting points are drilled right into the tub under the table. The third mounting point is the loop mentioned above. I don't believe this hitch provides much torsional stability and even the guy selling them agreed that this is a poor design (other DrawTite products are supposed to be top notch). Having just been rear-ended, I was concerned that this hitch might tear up the underside of my 'V if hit again, or if I smacked it on a rut while off roading.
Reese Hitch The Reese hitch is similar to the HiddenHitch design. Looking at the drawings, I thought the HiddenHitch would be easier to install, but I could be wrong.
Curt Manufacturing Another good design, but this is a class 2 or 3 hitch. It has a 2 inch receiver, which is bigger than the CR-V needs. It also ain't cheap. The design seems similar to the Putnam, only larger. There may be some advantage in going with a 2" receiver as it there is a larger assortment of accessories for 2" hitches.
Note to shoppers HiddenHitch, Reese, and DrawTite are all owned by the same Conglomerate. If your local retailer specializes in one of these, they might be able to order one of the other designs if it meets your preference. For example, the Racksmith shop I visited works with DrawTite, but they tried to get me the HiddenHitch when I told them about my issues with the DrawTite design. Turns out they couldn't get one fast enough, and I had to pay megabucks to have one shipped overnight from Hitchesonline.
Okay, now for the hitch basket. I didn't do much shopping for the basket. I wanted it fast and the Racksmith had a good design for a reasonable price. For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, see this link...
Aside from speed/convenience, I went with the DrawTite because the platform is made from single set of four rails. One other design I saw had a platform made in two halves. It didn't look as strong. I didn't see any others, but was told that several use two piece construction. The one I bought is 48" long and 20" deep. I also bought a large, waterproof rubbermaid container at Lowes for $14, which fits nicely.
Some of the designs for a 2" receiver have a hinge in the mounting arm. This allows you to fold the platform up against the back of the vehicle (it won't actually lean against the vehicle). I like that idea, but it was not offered in the 1 1/4" receiver designs.
I opted not to go with a roof-mounted cargo carrier for several reasons.
1. A cargo box is more expensive than the hitch and basket combined.
2. I already have a Yakima ski rack and would not be able to have both the rack and box on the top of the vehicle.
3. The rooftop weight limit for the CR-V is 75 lbs. The cargo box weighs approx 35lbs. It doesn't matter if you have a rack system designed to handle a zillion pounds, the vehicle's limits always come first. The hitch rating is higher and, if necessary, I feel better about exceeding that weight limit than the roof's.
4. The hitch basket will accommodate more oddly shaped items.
5. While the hitch basket blocks gate access, the larger cargo boxes block the swing up glass on my 1st gen CR-V. 2nd gen owners need not worry about that.
We have a 2003 Honda CRV EX with the Honda roof rack installed as an accessory. At certain speeds there is a fairly annoying whistling sound that I am sure is due to the roof rack. Does installing the moonroof visor help cut this noise down or is it too far away from the roof rack to make a difference?
Did anyone install a pair of Tweeters on LX by yourself? Is it going to have any effects on the warranty of the vehicle? What if I have those sound system stores to install it for me?
I can get it for about $80 from the internet excluding installation. I contacted the dealer but they refuse to install it for me unless I buy directly from them (in which case, they charge a fortune for it).
Well, more storage. Do not install the cargo cover, you could remove the picnic table that will give you some more room. other than that I think it is about how you configure the seats. Greetings from VA. fig
Comments
It is made of waterproof /neoprene material with padding. It looks real good in black with the logo, however one does lose the access to the back storage areas of the front seats (unless you go to a upholsterer to modify it slightly).
check out the wetokole.com website.
"okole" is Hawaiian for 'one's behind/derriere"
It cost over $520 for front and back seats (it covers everything---seats, backs, headrests, arm rests. The wait was about 4 weeks from date of purchase to installation by the manufacturer.
You have to remove the "Dashboard Pocket" which is the storage compartment(for CD's) below the radio. That looked difficult but turned out to be simple. You remove the self tapping screw from the back of the compartment, then just give the unit some light tugs and it pops right out.
Installing the receiver takes about 10 seconds once you get the CD compartment out of the way.
Training the remotes is easy, but it took me about three tries on the procedure before I did it fast enough to actually trigger the training effect.
I am glad I did it myself. I feel like I accomplished something.
I got the keyless entry kit from cheaphondaparts.com for $92.75 + 12.95 shipping.
Good Luck.
My wife is saying we need UV procetion on car window.
Does privacy glass or tinted glass have some protection?
Thanks.
-Jay
I'm looking at getting the cargo tray for my one day old '03 CRV LX. Someone in an earlier mentioned getting a cargo tray that was more nonslip....sort of a rubbery material, than the Honda tray which was plastic and had a tendency to let things slide around on turns.
Anyone have a comment on the "slipperiness" factor of the Honda cargo tray versus aftermarket trays. If I'm misinformed and the Honda tray does not let things slide around, then I'll stick with OEM tray.
Second question. If I order a Honda subwoofer and tweeter set on the Internet, and bring it in to the dealer for install, do they charge me extra because they are losing their markup on the parts, or might they refuse to install it? Any experiences out there?
Thanks!
I live in San Jose, CA and have asked a local shop called Speed Merchant about this. Bottom line: lowering the car 1.8 inches, stiffening the suspension, getting larger wheels/tires (18") will go for about $2500 (max. estimate).
My questions for all out there:
1) Has anyone done a similar mod, and what was your experience with the final outcome?
2) Does this sound like it's a decent deal price-wise? (I know it really depends on the actual parts they put in, which rims/tires I get, etc. I just want to know it it seems reasonably in the ballpark.)
3) Re: acceleration, has anyone had any luck bumping up that up? What mods would you recommend?
Thanks!
Herb :-)
I'm going to do it myself.
There're 12 flange bolts to be installed each side.
I just check the underside of the body, only one row of 6 holes each side.
Where are the remains, another row of 6 holes?
Thanks,
Or, email the manufacturer of the steps you bought and ask them.
The Instruction says there are 12 flange bolts to be installed each side(two rows).
I check the underside of the body, only one row of 6 holes each side.
Where are the remains, another row of 6 holes?
One more question:
Both Running boards and side steps provide a convenient intermediate step. Same price $300.
Which one is better for a 2-3 yrs kid?
I have the running boards on my 03 EX. They have worked great for my 5 year old. I'm sure side steps will work just as fine or maybe even better. I personally prefer the look of the CRV with running boards than with side steps (thats why I chose them).
Thanks!
that look a lil white. What can i use to clean the trim from the wax.
Greetings,
fig.
While I'm sure PB would work, you can also use ordinary household cleaners with strong degreaser ingredients. Simple Green is an effective one, but be careful with it. That stuff will eat the plastic if you leave it too long. Wipe with it, then rinse the area with clean water.
Definitely a Catch-22.
I ordered the floor mats for $83 two weeks ago from hondapartsforyou.com. I checked all the accessory suppliers' links and they won out on price, and shipping was only $3.95. (I also ordered the front splash guards for $38. They were included in the same $3.95 shipping price even though it was a separate package.) They're in Danbury, CT and I'm in Virginia. Regular UPS delivery got it to me two days after I had ordered it. With that kind of service, they'll get my business again.
The mats are heavy duty, have a "CRV" embossed logo and look great. Two separate mats for the front and one long one that covers the entire back seat floor area. They have spikes to keep them from slipping, and for added measure, the driver's mat has two small holes in the side closest to the driver that attach to two hooks at the bottom of the seat on the floor. This eliminates the "creep" forward that sometimes occurs with floor mats from lots of foot activity accelerating and braking. They also have a slight lip that would help contain a drink spill or water brought in by feet during rain. I initially thought the $83 was kind of high, but they are quality and should last quite a long time.
Installing the splash guards was pretty easy,but I did have trouble unscrewing one of the self-tapping screws. It turned, but it simply didn't want to unscrew. I don't want to go into details about how I solved the problem, because it's too painful. It involved a hacksaw.
What are opinions on the sunroof visor?
What does it do?
Is Cargo Cover a must have for "hiding" things away from sight?
Is the leather steering wheel attractive and superior to standard wheel?
Thanks.
The only caveat is that the cargo cover squeaks a little bit due to the connection to the rear headrests. It doesn't bother me, so I haven't tried to fix it.
I don't have the cargo cover. I fold the seats down much too frequently. It would just get in the way.
We are choosing not to go with the hard cover for the spare tire, so does this mean the spare will come under the picnic table and lie flat?
Still curious about the visor for the sunroof. The dealer says it routes the air up and back and that that is a good thing.
Anyone have the sunroof without the visor? Does the air sweep down too much and would you consider the visor to keep flow going back?
Thanks.
regards,
kyfdx
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I also have the leather steering wheel cover. It was easy to put on.
Question:::::
I am thinking about larger wheels/tires. Has anyone done this? If so, Did you do a larger spare tire as well? If so, Did you mount it onto the back of the vehicle, and can you still open the back hatch window?
Thanks!
102 of 196 kyfdx - #80 - Tire size upgrade by reiner4 Nov 01, 2002 (4:57 am)
Per your request looking for anyone upgrading to 16 inch wheels/215-60-16 tires:
I'm running my '99 EX with Konig Diva 16x7 wheels and Michelin Symmetry 215x60x16 tires (including the spare). It's a drastic improvement over the stock setup, with the stance of the vehicle feeling more nimble and sure. I have not experienced any impairment, but with the nicer wheels I'm less likely to do any more offroading.
To top it off, I have a Neuspeed Front Tower Bar which holds the front down nicely when cornering, eliminating a lot of the body roll.
3 years and 60K miles later this vehicle still rocks - best I've ever bought !! Hope that helps... Rich
------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------
#103 of 196 reiner4..Thanks by kyfdx Nov 01, 2002 (1:03 pm)
Thanks for the info. A few more questions.
Have you run this setup in the snow? Any traction issues? Also, have you noticed any deterioration in gas mileage? Any particular reason on tire choice, and what do you think of them?
I really appreciate your response, as that is pretty much the setup I am considering. Except I'm looking at Honda Pilot wheels, which have identical offset/bolt pattern, and are 16 x 6.5
I also think I might go with a little more aggressive H-speed rated tire, like the Bridgestone Turanza. Real world advice is appreciated.. thanks a lot
------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------
#104 of 196 kyfdx - wheels / tires (continued) by reiner4 Nov 03, 2002 (5:19 pm)
In response to your questions....
Have you run this setup in the snow?
* I've only had this setup for several months now and living in the SF Bay Area has not provided for any snow tests to date.
Any traction issues?
* I think it has made for better traction - if anything. Like I mentioned previously, the vehicle feels like it has a more nimble yet 'sure' footing.
......have you noticed any deterioration in gas mileage?
* None to mention. I still average between 22 and 24 mpg, depending on my driving ! 8-)
Any particular reason on tire choice, and what do you think of them?
* I have the Michelin Symmtry's on my '02 Odyssey EXL-RES and really liked 'em. My original plan was to put the Odyssey's wheels / tires on my 'V', and upgrade the same for the Ody. Needless to say, the wife vetoed my tinkering with her brand new vehicle! My dream is still to upgrade the Ody to 17" or 18" wheels......dream on....
I had considered going up to 17" or 18" wheels on the 'V', but as my daily driver (+/- 85 miles round trip to/from work), I did not want to spare any comfort....especially just for looks. The 16" setup has proven to be very functional, with some flair.
Also, look into the Neuspeed Front Tower Bar for +/- $100 - it makes a nice difference in taking offramps and other turns that are conducive to body roll.
Hope that helps and good luck !!
FYI there is a place to store it on the floor. Ya know how it's spring loaded to fit in the notches on top of the cargo area? Well, there are notches on the floor for it too. So, if you pick up something tall, you have a handy place to put the cover without taking up passenger area.
kentkmok: I wouldn't replace the spare. If you go with 215-60/16 size, then the rolling diameter will be the same.. Your odometer/speedometer readings will not vary, and you could use your spare for short periods as the 205-70/15 has the same rolling diameter.
regards,
kyfdx
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What did some of you pay for installation of accessories by the dealer?
Even though I want some of these accessories, I can't justify the dealer install markup to the prices listed on the Hondacars.com website.
Are all dealers charging through the nose for accessories?
Thanks.
You could also tell your dealer which accessories you want, tell him if he can do it for under a certain price, he gets the business, otherwise, you buy it from H and A. Worth a shot.
Stevedebi - My most common cargo is a pair of greyhounds. The cargo cover crossing over the compartment would be a problem for them.
I had to get mine ASAP as I was supposed to be hauling more dogs than usual on a 300 mile trip this weekend. I went through a local retailer for the basket (Racksmith, very professional group). I had to order the hitch from Hitchesonline.com (a no fuss experience). Anyway, here's what I've learned about hitches...
Putnam Hitch The Putnam appears to be the best of the class one hitches (1 1/4 inch receiver). Model number 55141 is the one that fits the CR-V. I like this hitch because it attaches to the frame, does not require drilling, and it does not use the towing/tie down loop that is under the bumper. This hitch tends to be about $20-30 more expensive than others. I wanted the this one, but could not have it delivered soon enough for my trip this weekend.
HiddenHitch This is the hitch that I bought. The HiddenHitch also makes use of the "frame rails" in the back of the CR-V. It does not require drilling, but you may have to enlarge a hole or two to get the hardware to fit. I used a wrench and a little elbow grease to make the hole wider. Just make sure you repaint any exposed metal before installing the hitch. This hitch does have an anchor point that uses the tow/tie down loop under the bumper. One word of caution. Make sure you line up the hitch before you start working under the car. The installation instructions are deceptive about which holes you will need to use. This hitch is model 60907.
http://www.hiddenhitch.com/images/products/instructions/60907.pdf
DrawTite Hitch IMHO, this is the worst of the lot for my purposes. It's a nice dirt cheap hitch and is probably good for light use (ski or bike racks). However, it requires drilling for installation and two of the three mounting points are drilled right into the tub under the table. The third mounting point is the loop mentioned above. I don't believe this hitch provides much torsional stability and even the guy selling them agreed that this is a poor design (other DrawTite products are supposed to be top notch). Having just been rear-ended, I was concerned that this hitch might tear up the underside of my 'V if hit again, or if I smacked it on a rut while off roading.
Reese Hitch The Reese hitch is similar to the HiddenHitch design. Looking at the drawings, I thought the HiddenHitch would be easier to install, but I could be wrong.
http://www.hitch-web.com/assets/5/docs/rs79113.pdf
Dalan Hitch Another one that uses the tub as an anchor point. In this case at least it has four anchor points, not just three.
http://www.hitch-web.com/assets/1/docs/da247300.pdf
Curt Manufacturing Another good design, but this is a class 2 or 3 hitch. It has a 2 inch receiver, which is bigger than the CR-V needs. It also ain't cheap. The design seems similar to the Putnam, only larger. There may be some advantage in going with a 2" receiver as it there is a larger assortment of accessories for 2" hitches.
http://www.hitch-web.com/assets/22/docs/ct12514.pdf
Note to shoppers HiddenHitch, Reese, and DrawTite are all owned by the same Conglomerate. If your local retailer specializes in one of these, they might be able to order one of the other designs if it meets your preference. For example, the Racksmith shop I visited works with DrawTite, but they tried to get me the HiddenHitch when I told them about my issues with the DrawTite design. Turns out they couldn't get one fast enough, and I had to pay megabucks to have one shipped overnight from Hitchesonline.
Look at the carrier they have mounted on that Expedition! It's about the size of my old Civic hatchback!
Are your greyhounds rescue dogs?
http://www.drawtite-hitches.com/cargo_carriers/cargo_carriers.htm- l
Aside from speed/convenience, I went with the DrawTite because the platform is made from single set of four rails. One other design I saw had a platform made in two halves. It didn't look as strong. I didn't see any others, but was told that several use two piece construction. The one I bought is 48" long and 20" deep. I also bought a large, waterproof rubbermaid container at Lowes for $14, which fits nicely.
Some of the designs for a 2" receiver have a hinge in the mounting arm. This allows you to fold the platform up against the back of the vehicle (it won't actually lean against the vehicle). I like that idea, but it was not offered in the 1 1/4" receiver designs.
I opted not to go with a roof-mounted cargo carrier for several reasons.
1. A cargo box is more expensive than the hitch and basket combined.
2. I already have a Yakima ski rack and would not be able to have both the rack and box on the top of the vehicle.
3. The rooftop weight limit for the CR-V is 75 lbs. The cargo box weighs approx 35lbs. It doesn't matter if you have a rack system designed to handle a zillion pounds, the vehicle's limits always come first. The hitch rating is higher and, if necessary, I feel better about exceeding that weight limit than the roof's.
4. The hitch basket will accommodate more oddly shaped items.
5. While the hitch basket blocks gate access, the larger cargo boxes block the swing up glass on my 1st gen CR-V. 2nd gen owners need not worry about that.
You should see some of the hardware they have for big trucks. In person, the stuff looks heavier than the trucks themselves.
Somewhere I saw posted a max weight capacity for the roof rack.
Anyone have this info?
Thanks.
I can get it for about $80 from the internet excluding installation. I contacted the dealer but they refuse to install it for me unless I buy directly from them (in which case, they charge a fortune for it).
Greetings from VA.
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