Honda Civic / Ballade EK K-Swap Parts & Planning Guide

BridgeSource Auto is actively engaging specialist suppliers across the K-swap product categories listed below. Product availability, compatibility, pricing and lead time must be confirmed for each individual build before an order is accepted.

This guide is not an installation manual. Every conversion is application-specific. Professional installation or inspection by a suitably experienced automotive professional is recommended.


Engine and Gearbox Selection

The EK chassis is a popular K-swap platform. K20A, K20A2 and K24 variants are commonly used. Gearbox selection must be confirmed by exact gearbox code — donor platform descriptions alone are not sufficient for compatibility confirmation. Gearbox choice determines axle compatibility, final drive ratio and shift cable routing.

  • K-Series engine (code and specification to be confirmed)
  • K-Series gearbox (exact gearbox code required for compatibility confirmation)
  • Engine and gearbox mating hardware

Chassis-Specific Engine Mounts

EK engine mounts differ from EG applications and must be selected specifically for the EK subframe. Incorrect mounts will affect driveshaft angles, shift cable geometry and exhaust clearance.

  • Front engine mount and bracket
  • Rear engine mount and bracket
  • Transmission mount and bracket
  • Mounting solution selected for the existing subframe or planned subframe conversion

Shifter Box, Mounting Hardware and Cables

Cable routing and shifter box position differ between EG and EK chassis. EK-specific cable lengths and bracket positions must be confirmed for the gearbox in use.

  • Shifter box (K-Series compatible)
  • Shifter mounting bracket and hardware
  • Shift cables (length and routing specific to EK chassis)
  • Shift cable end fittings and adjusters

Intermediate Shaft and Axle Solution

The K-Series gearbox requires a gearbox-compatible intermediate shaft. Axle shafts must be matched to the gearbox output flanges and front hub specifications.

  • Intermediate shaft (gearbox and chassis specific)
  • Driver-side axle shaft
  • Passenger-side axle shaft
  • Axle retention hardware and circlips

Wiring Harness, ECU and Immobiliser Integration

EK chassis wiring differs from EG and requires specific harness adaptation. OBD2 EK chassis adds considerations for immobiliser integration that differ from OBD1 EG builds.

  • K-Series engine wiring harness
  • ECU (OEM or aftermarket — to be confirmed for intended use)
  • Chassis harness adapter or conversion (OBD2 EK specific)
  • Immobiliser, key transponder and ECU integration
  • Sensor adapters (where required by chassis or ECU)

Fuel System

The existing fuel-system configuration must be confirmed before selecting the pump, rail, regulator, lines and fittings.

  • Fuel pump (flow rate matched to build target)
  • Fuel pressure regulator
  • Fuel rail and fittings
  • Fuel lines
  • Fuel filter (where applicable)

Intake and Throttle System

Intake manifold and throttle body selection affects power delivery, idle quality and ECU compatibility. Drive-by-wire throttle bodies require ECU support.

  • Intake manifold (OEM or aftermarket)
  • Throttle body and gaskets
  • Intake pipe and air filter
  • Cold-air or short-ram intake system

Cooling System

Cooling capacity and hose routing must be selected for the engine, power target, intended use and available chassis space.

  • Radiator (sized for K-Series output and EK bay)
  • Upper and lower coolant hoses
  • Thermostat housing adapter (if required)
  • Coolant expansion tank and cap

Exhaust Conversion

EK exhaust routing and tunnel clearance differ from EG. Downpipe and exhaust system must be confirmed for the EK chassis and selected manifold or header.

  • Exhaust manifold or header (K-Series)
  • Downpipe (EK chassis specific)
  • Catalytic converter and compliant exhaust components for the vehicle’s intended road or competition use
  • Exhaust system or link pipe

Suspension, Brakes and Chassis Preparation

Increased power output requires consideration of suspension geometry, brake performance and chassis condition. This section covers supporting components recommended for a complete, safe build.

  • Coilover or spring and damper set (application-specific)
  • Front and rear sway bars (if upgrading)
  • Brake upgrade components (discs, pads, lines — as required)
  • Chassis inspection and repair items

Service Items and Completion Hardware

Fresh service items and completion hardware ensure the build starts correctly and is not compromised by worn consumables.

  • Engine oil and filter
  • Coolant
  • Spark plugs (K-Series specification)
  • Timing-chain, tensioner and related service components, where required
  • Engine bay fasteners and hardware kit
  • Breather and catch-can system

Optional: Power Steering

Power steering options depend on the engine accessories, mount arrangement, rack type and intended use. The following configurations must be assessed for compatibility with your specific build:

  • Hydraulic power steering conversion components
  • Electric power steering (EPS) conversion
  • Manual steering configuration
  • Associated brackets, hoses and hardware

Optional: Air Conditioning

Retention or deletion of air conditioning requires planning. Compressor relocation or deletion affects belt routing and engine bay layout.

  • A/C compressor relocation bracket (retention), or
  • A/C delete pulley and belt (deletion)
  • Associated hoses and fittings (if retaining)

Request Your K-Swap Sourcing Plan

BridgeSource Auto verifies compatibility, availability, pricing and lead time before accepting an order. Submitting a request does not create a purchase obligation.

To help us prepare your sourcing plan, please provide:

  • Chassis code
  • Model year
  • Current engine
  • Intended K-Series engine and code
  • Gearbox code
  • ECU choice (OEM or aftermarket preference)
  • Intended use (street, track, daily, competition)
  • Existing modifications
  • Parts you already own

Submit a Request a Part enquiry →


Every K-swap conversion is application-specific. This guide is not an exhaustive installation or safety manual. Parts must be confirmed against your donor chassis, engine code, gearbox, ECU, intended use and existing modifications. Installation should be completed or inspected by a suitably experienced automotive professional.

BridgeSource Auto is an independent aftermarket parts business. Honda and associated model names are trademarks of their respective owner. BridgeSource Auto is not affiliated with, authorised by or endorsed by Honda Motor Co., Ltd.