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engine change

2336 Views 13 Replies 8 Participants Last post by  mercmarc
It's looking like I need a engine for a 06 ridgeline. Will other years (older) and models work as long as it's a 3.5 ? The vehicle has 170k on it , so I'm looking for a low cost replacement.
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That seems pretty low miles for needing a new engine. IAC, I think you'll need to stay with a 2006-2008 MY engine. In 2009, Honda made some engine and tranny changes and I don't think they are universal. I'm sure there's a ROCer who knows for sure, so hopefully someone who knows will see this thread.
I see you did your own timing belt. Did this play any part in the engine disaster?
That seems pretty low miles for needing a new engine. IAC, I think you'll need to stay with a 2006-2008 MY engine. In 2009, Honda made some engine and tranny changes and I don't think they are universal. I'm sure there's a ROCer who knows for sure, so hopefully someone who knows will see this thread.
Thanks for responding. What is a MY engine?
MY= model year
Looks like you can get one at a yard for probably $1900 or so. I see a couple on ebay for 2100-2400 w/best offer.
I see you did your own timing belt. Did this play any part in the engine disaster?
I changed the belt last year and it ran fine went over 10 k miles. Then it broke. When I removed timing cover the small nut that held the crank sensor fell out. I think that got caught between the belt and cover then chewed the belt.
That seems pretty low miles for needing a new engine. IAC, I think you'll need to stay with a 2006-2008 MY engine. In 2009, Honda made some engine and tranny changes and I don't think they are universal. I'm sure there's a ROCer who knows for sure, so hopefully someone who knows will see this thread.
+1 on '06 thru '08 RL only. Simplifies the search issue & removes compatibility risks.
I changed the belt last year and it ran fine went over 10 k miles. Then it broke. When I removed timing cover the small nut that held the crank sensor fell out. I think that got caught between the belt and cover then chewed the belt.
*nervously rips off TB covers and checks the torque on each bolt*
Never done this on a Honda, but I have on other makes and models.

Be absolutely sure that you are getting the matching ECM/PCM (computer) for the engine you purchase and get some kind of guarantee that it will work (is not damaged) from the seller. They make minor changes in the computers from year to year. Often the original computer will get separated from the engine. Your existing computer may not be 100% compatible, depending on the year and any updates that were done. In your plan, add some contingency dollars to have the system read out at the dealer and updated if necessary.
Never done this on a Honda, but I have on other makes and models.

Be absolutely sure that you are getting the matching ECM/PCM (computer) for the engine you purchase and get some kind of guarantee that it will work (is not damaged) from the seller. They make minor changes in the computers from year to year. Often the original computer will get separated from the engine. Your existing computer may not be 100% compatible, depending on the year and any updates that were done. In your plan, add some contingency dollars to have the system read out at the dealer and updated if necessary.
This is sounding like a tricky situation. I wonder if I should try rebuilding the one I have. Thanks for the tips anyway.
This is sounding like a tricky situation. I wonder if I should try rebuilding the one I have. Thanks for the tips anyway.
Given the RLs tendency towards electrical gremlins when using other than stock/OEM stuff, there's no way in the world I'd be trying to mix & match components of pre & post RLs. Too many what-ifs..... there were enough things changed in '09 to complicate compatibility issues, especially changes in ECM, sensors, harnesses, etc. Nooooo Way.... unless you've just got the mad scientist bug in you.
On the other hand, a DIY rebuild would be far preferable, if you're up to it.... which you probably are if you were considering DIY engine swap. That way you know what you're starting with. Good Luck, whatever you do. :)
This is sounding like a tricky situation. I wonder if I should try rebuilding the one I have. Thanks for the tips anyway.
I recently had the same problem as you do now. After 20,000 miles the timing belt broke destroying pulser flange and broke off one stud on the oil pump. Internally six valves were bent. The problem came down to the timing belt rubbing against the pulser flange which eventually cut into and broke the timing belt while running between 60 and 65 MPH. The Honda technical service bulletin 08-045 explains it better.

For what a used engine would cost you, you come close to having your engine refreshed. A reputable machine shop should be able to check the heads pistons and cylinders, replace any bent valves, add new rings, replace rod and crank bearings, Gaskets and seals, and install a new timing belt for around $2500.00

When I pulled our Ridgeline engine, I supplied the local machine shop with all new Honda parts to include. Water Pump, Oil Pump, Crank Gear, Timing Belt tensioner and idler, new hydraulic tensioner, shim kit for the idler (Honda TSB 08-045), and a new idler bolt (per Honda spec's).

Also, If you purchase Honda part number 04148-RCA-306 it includes the taper shim, timing belt, and timing belt drive pulley.

If I can help at all? PM me.

Good Luck,
silverstreek
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I recently had the same problem as you do now. After 20,000 miles the timing belt broke destroying pulser flange and broke off one stud on the oil pump. Internally six valves were bent. The problem came down to the timing belt rubbing against the pulser flange which eventually cut into and broke the timing belt while running between 60 and 65 MPH. The Honda technical service bulletin 08-045 explains it better.

For what a used engine would cost you, you come close to having your engine refreshed. A reputable machine shop should be able to check the heads pistons and cylinders, replace any bent valves, add new rings, replace rod and crank bearings, Gaskets and seals, and install a new timing belt for around $2500.00

When I pulled our Ridgeline engine, I supplied the local machine shop with all new Honda parts to include. Water Pump, Oil Pump, Crank Gear, Timing Belt tensioner and idler, new hydraulic tensioner, shim kit for the idler (Honda TSB 08-045), and a new idler bolt (per Honda spec's).

Also, If you purchase Honda part number 04148-RCA-306 it includes the taper shim, timing belt, and timing belt drive pulley.

If I can help at all? PM me.

Good Luck,
silverstreek
Thanks, for the info.
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