Engine Removal and Installation Acura TL III

Special Tools Required

1. Front subframe adapter VSB02C000016
2. Engine support hanger, A and Reds AAR-T-12566
3. Engine hanger balance bar VSB02C000019 These special tools are available through Acura Tool and Equipment Program, 1-888-424-6857

Note. Use fender covers to avoid damaging painted surfaces. To avoid damaging the wires and terminals, unplug the wiring connectors carefully while holding the connector portion. Mark all wiring and hoses to avoid misconnection. Also, be sure that they do not contact other wiring or hoses, or interfere with other parts.

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1. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the radio and navigation system, then write down the audio presets. Make sure the ignition switch is OFF.
2. Disconnect the support struts from both sides of the pivot ball (bolted to the hood). Secure the hood (A) in a vertical position. Remove the right side pivot ball and install it into the lower threaded hole (B), then reattach the support strut. NOTE: Do not attempt to close the hood with the support strut in the vertical position, as it will damage the support strut and hood.
3. Remove the left side engine compartment cover (A) and the left rear engine compartment cover (B).
4. Remove the right side engine compartment cover (A), then remove the right rear engine compartment cover (B).
5. Remove the intake manifold cover.
6. Drain the power steering system fluid, then plug the fluid reservoir and return hose (see «FLUID REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__fluid-replacement) ).
7. Relieve fuel pressure (see «FUEL PRESSURE RELIEVING»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/fuel-system/#fuel-supply-system__fuel-pressure-relieving) ).
8. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery first, then disconnect the positive cable.
9. Remove the battery.
10. Remove the air cleaner housing (see «AIR CLEANER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#intake-air-system) ).
11. Remove the resonator (see «RESONATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#intake-air-system) ).
12. Remove the harness clamp (A).
13. Remove the four bolts, then remove the battery base (B).
14. Remove the battery cables (A) from the underhood fuse/relay box, then disconnect the harness connector (B).
15. Remove the underhood fuse/relay box (C) from the body.
16. Remove the harness clamp (A), and remove the two 6 mm bolts (B), then remove the strut brace (C).
17. Remove the brake booster vacuum hose (A) and evaporative emission (EVAP) canister hose (B).
18. Remove the quick-connect fitting cover (A), then disconnect the fuel feed hose (see «FUEL LINE/QUICK-CONNECT FITTING INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/fuel-system/#fuel-supply-system__fuel-linequick-connect-fitting-installation) ).
19. Remove the harness clamp (A), and disconnect the engine wire harness connectors (B) on the left side of the engine compartment.
20. M/T model: Remove the three bolts securing the shift cable holder, then remove the shift cable and select cable. Do not bend the cables excessively (see step 17 on «TRANSMISSION REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission__transmission-removal) ).
21. M/T model: Remove the clutch slave cylinder and clutch line bracket mounting bolt. Do not operate the clutch pedal once the slave cylinder has been removed (see step 19 on «TRANSMISSION REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission__transmission-removal) ).
22. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT INSPECTION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/charging-system/#charging-system) ).
23. Remove the power steering (P/S) pump outlet line (A) from the P/S pump, then plug the outlet line and the P/S pump.
24. Remove the P/S hose (B) from the clamp (C).
25. Remove the P/S fluid reservoir from the clamp.
26. Remove the steering joint cover (A).
27. Lock the steering wheel. Make a reference mark (B) across the steering joint and steering gearbox pinion shaft. Remove the steering joint bolt (C), and disconnect the steering joint from the steering gearbox pinion shaft (D). To prevent damage to the cable reel, do not turn the steering wheel once the steering joint has been removed.
28. Disconnect the A/C condenser fan motor connector (A) and A/C compressor clutch connector (B), and remove the coolant reservoir (C). Wipe up any spilled engine coolant immediately.
29. Remove the two bolts (D), loosen the bottom bolt (E), then remove the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly.
30. Remove the four bolts securing the A/C compressor.
31. Remove the radiator cap.
32. Raise the vehicle on the hoist to full height.
33. Remove the front wheels.
34. Remove the engine under cover.
35. Remove the splash shield.
36. Loosen the drain plug in the radiator, and drain the engine coolant (see «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/cooling-system-mechanical/#cooling-system) ).
37. Drain the transmission fluid: Manual transmission (see «MANUAL TRANSMISSION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission) ) Automatic transmission (see «ATF REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) )
38. Drain the engine oil (see «OIL PRESSURE TEST»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/lubrication-system/#engine-lubrication__oil-pressure-test) ).
39. Disconnect the stabilizer links (see «STABILIZER LINK REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension) ).
40. Remove the damper fork (see step 5 on «REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension__removal) ).
41. Separate the tie-rod end ball joints from the knuckles (see step 10 on «STEERING GEARBOX REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-gearbox-removal) ).
42. Separate the knuckles from the lower arms (see step 5 on «LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension__lower-arm-removalinstallation) ).
43. Remove the driveshaft (see step 10 on «DRIVESHAFT DISASSEMBLY»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/axle-shafts/#drivelineaxle__driveshaft-disassembly) ). Coat all precision-finished surfaces with clean engine oil. Tie plastic bags over the driveshaft ends.
44. A/T model: Remove the shift cable. Do not bend the shift cable excessively (see step 48 on «TRANSMISSION REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) ).
45. Remove exhaust pipe A.
46. Remove the P/S hose (A), then plug the line and the hose.
47. Disconnect the power steering pressure switch connector (A).
48. Remove the nuts securing the transmission lower front mount and transmission lower rear mount.
49. Lower the vehicle on the hoist.
50. Remove the upper radiator hose (A) and lower radiator hose (B).
51. Remove the heater hoses.
52. Remove the right fender trim, left fender trim, and front bulkhead cover (see step 8 on «TRANSMISSION REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) ). Then lift and support the engine with engine hanger (A) and engine balancer bar (B). Attach the front arm (C) to the front cylinder head with a spacer (D) and the connector bracket bolt (10 x 1.25 mm) (E). Attach the rear arm (F) to the rear cylinder head with the harness clamp bracket bolt (8 x 1.25 mm) (G).
53. Remove the front engine mount stop (A), then remove the front engine mount bolt (B).
54. M/T model: Remove the two bolts securing the rear engine damper.
55. Remove the rear engine mount stop (A), then remove the rear engine mount bolt (B).
56. Remove the vacuum hose (C).
57. M/T model: Remove the two bolts securing the shift cable bracket.
58. Make the appropriate reference lines (A) at both ends of the subframe (B) that line up with the edge (C) of the stiffeners (D).
59. Attach the special tool to the subframe by hanging the belt (A) over the front of the subframe (B), then secure the belt with its stop (C).
60. Raise the jack and line up the slots in the special tool arms with the bolt holes on the jack base, then securely attach them with four bolts.
61. Remove the subframe middle mount.
62. Remove the four 12 x 1.25 mm bolts (A) securing the subframe stiffeners (B), the four subframe mounting bolts (C), and the stiffeners, then lower the front subframe (D).
63. Lower the vehicle on the hoist.
64. Attach a chain hoist (A) to the engine hook (B) and the transmission hook (C), then life up the engine/transmission until it is securely supported by the chain hoist, and remove the engine support hanger and engine hanger adapters.
65. Remove the mounting bolts from the upper half of the side engine mount bracket.
66. Remove the ground cable (A). M/T model: A/T model
67. Remove the transmission upper mount bracket (B), and remove the vacuum hose (C).
68. Check that the engine/transmission is completely free of vacuum hoses, fuel and coolant hoses, and electrical wiring.
69. Slowly lower the engine/transmission about 150 mm (6 in.). Check once again that all hoses and electrical wiring are disconnected and free from the engine/transmission, then lower it all the way and support it.
70. Disconnected the chain hoist from the engine/transmission assembly.
71. Raise the vehicle all the way, and remove the engine/transmission from under the vehicle.

Engine Installation

Special Tools Required

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1. Front subframe adapter VSB02C000016
2. Engine support hanger, A and Reds AAR-T-12566
3. Engine hanger balance bar VSB02C000019 These special tools are available through Acura Tool and Equipment Program, 1-888-424-6857 Install the engine mount brackets and accessory brackets, and tighten their bolts to the specified torques. Position the engine/transmission under the vehicle. Be sure that they are properly aligned. Carefully lower the vehicle until the engine/transmission are properly positioned in the engine compartment. Make sure the vehicle is not resting on any part of the engine/transmission. Support the engine/transmission with a chain hoist (A) and carefully raise the engine/transmission into place. NOTE: Reinstall the mounting bolts/support nuts in the sequence given in the following steps. Failure to follow this sequence may cause excessive noise and vibration, and reduce engine mount life. Install the engine support hanger (AAR-T-12566) to the vehicle. Install the engine with the engine support hanger and engine balancer bar (VSB02C000019). Attach the front arm (A) to the front cylinder head with a spacer (B) and the connector bracket bolt (10 x 1.25 mm) (C). Attach the rear arm (D) to the rear cylinder head with the harness clamp bracket bolt (8 x 1.25 mm) (E). Install mounting bolts into the upper half of the side engine mount bracket. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque. Install the transmission upper mount bracket (A), then tighten the bolts the numbered sequence shown. M/T model: A/T model: Remove the chain hoist, then raise the vehicle on the hoist to full height. Using the subframe adapter (A) and a jack, raise the front subframe up to the body. Loosely install the new front subframe mounting bolts (four) (B), the 12 x 1.25 mm bolts (four) (C) (D), and the stiffeners (E). Loosely install the subframe middle mount. Remove the jack and special tool. Align the reference marks (A) with edge (B) of both rear stiffener (C), and tighten the rear subframe mounting bolts, then front bolts, and tighten the stiffener bolts to the specified torque. Tighten the bolts securing the subframe mid-mounts. Tighten the nuts securing the transmission lower front mount and transmission lower rear mount. Lower the vehicle on the hoist. M/T model: Install the shift cable, and tighten the two bolts securing the shift cable bracket. Install the vacuum hose (A). Tighten the rear engine mount bolt (B), then install the rear engine mount stop (C). M/T model: Tighten the two bolts securing the rear engine damper. Tighten the front engine mount bolt (A), then install the front engine mount stop (B). Loosen the mounting bolts for the upper half of the side engine mount bracket, then retighten them to specified torque. Loosen the mounting bolt for the transmission upper mount bracket (A), then retighten the bolts in the numbered sequence shown. M/T model: A/T model: Install the vacuum hose (B) and the ground cable (C). Remove the engine support hanger and engine hanger balancer bar. Raise the vehicle on the hoist to full height. Connect the power steering pressure switch connector. Install the power steering (P/S) hose. Install exhaust pipe A using new gaskets (B) and new self locking nuts (C). A/T model: Install the shift cable (see step 26 on «TRANSMISSION INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) ). Install a new set ring on the end of each driveshaft, then install the driveshaft. Make sure each ring "clicks" into place in the differential and intermediate shaft. Connect the suspension lower arm ball joints (see step 9 on «LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension__lower-arm-removalinstallation) ). Connect the tie-rod end ball joints (see step 27 on «STEERING GEARBOX INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-gearbox-installation) ). Install the damper fork (see step 2 on «INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension) ). Connect the stabilizer links (see «STABILIZER LINK REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension) ). Install the splash shield. Install the engine under cover. Install the front wheels. NOTE: On M/T model, be careful not to damage or chip the paint of the brake calipers when installing the wheels. Lower the vehicle on the hoist. Install the heater hoses. Install the upper radiator hose (A) and lower radiator hose (B). Install the A/C compressor. Install the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly (A) and coolant reservoir (B), then connect the A/C condenser fan motor connector (C) and A/C compressor clutch connector (D). Align the reference mark (A) on the steering joint and steering gearbox pinion shaft. Connect the steering joint (B) to the steering gearbox pinion shaft (C). Tighten the steering joint bolt. Install the steering joint cover (D). Install the P/S pump outlet hose (A) with a new O-ring (B). Install the P/S hose (C) to the clamp (D). Install the P/S fluid reservoir to the clamp, then install the return hose. Install the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT INSPECTION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/charging-system/#charging-system) ). M/T model: Install the clutch slave cylinder and clutch line bracket mounting bolt (see step 34 on «TRANSMISSION INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission__transmission-installation) ). M/T model: Install the shift cable and select cable, then tighten the three bolts securing the shift cable holder (see step 36 on «TRANSMISSION INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission__transmission-installation) ). Connect the engine wire harness connectors (A), then install the harness clamp (B). Install the brake booster vacuum hose (A), and evaporative emission (EVAP) canister hose (B). Connect the fuel feed hose (see «FUEL LINE/QUICK-CONNECT FITTING INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/fuel-system/#fuel-supply-system__fuel-linequick-connect-fitting-installation) ), then install the quick-connect fitting cover (A). Install the strut brace (A), then install the harness clamp (B), and install the two 6 mm bolts (C). Install the underhood fuse/relay box (A), and connect the harness connector (B). Install the battery cables (C). Install the battery base (A), then install the harness clamp (B). Install the air cleaner housing (see «AIR CLEANER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#intake-air-system) ). Install the resonator (see «RESONATOR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#intake-air-system) ). Install the intake manifold cover. Install the battery. Clean the battery posts and cable terminals with sandpaper, then assemble them and apply grease to prevent corrosion. A/T model: Move the shift lever to each gear, and verify that the A/T gear position indicator follows the transmission range switch. M/T model: Check that the transmission shifts into gear smoothly. Inspect for fuel leaks. Turn the ignition switch ON (II) (do not operate the starter) so the fuel pump runs for about 2 seconds and pressurizes the fuel line. Repeat this operation two or three times, then check for fuel leakage at any point in the fuel line. Refill the engine with engine oil (see «OIL PRESSURE TEST»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/lubrication-system/#engine-lubrication__oil-pressure-test) ). Refill the transmission with fluid: Manual transmission (see «MANUAL TRANSMISSION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-trans/#manual-transmission) ) Automatic transmission (see «ATF REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) ) Refill reservoir with the power steering fluid (see «FLUID REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__fluid-replacement) ). Refill the radiator with engine coolant, and bleed the air from the cooling system with the heater valve open (see step 8 on «COOLANT CHECK»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/cooling-system-mechanical/#cooling-system) ). Bleed air from the P/S system, if necessary, add the fluid (see «FLUID REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__fluid-replacement) ). Check the front wheel alignment, if necessary, adjust it (see «WHEEL ALIGNMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/wheel-alignment/#front-suspension-and-rear-suspension__wheel-alignment) ). Do the engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) reset procedure (see «HDS CLEAR COMMAND»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/auxiliary-emission-control-systems/#fuel-and-emissions-systems__hds-clear-command) ). Do the ECM/PCM idle learn procedure (see «ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#idle-control-system__ecmpcm-idle-learn-procedure) ). Do the crankshaft position (CKP) pattern clear/CKP pattern learn procedure (see «CRANK (CKP) PATTERN CLEAR/CRANK (CKP) PATTERN LEARN»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/auxiliary-emission-control-systems/#fuel-and-emissions-systems) ). Inspect the idle speed (see «IDLE SPEED INSPECTION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#idle-control-system__idle-speed-inspection) ). Inspect the ignition timing (see «IGNITION TIMING INSPECTION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/ignition-system/#ignition-system) ). Install the right rear engine compartment cover (A), then install the right side engine compartment cover (B). Install the left rear engine compartment cover (A) and the left side engine compartment cover (B). Enter the anti-theft codes for the radio and the navigation system, then enter the audio presets. Set the clock.

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See also:
• FLUID REPLACEMENT
• FUEL PRESSURE RELIEVING
• AIR CLEANER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• FUEL LINE/QUICK-CONNECT FITTING INSTALLATION
• TRANSMISSION REMOVAL
• DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
• COOLANT CHECK
• MANUAL TRANSMISSION
• ATF REPLACEMENT
• OIL PRESSURE TEST
• STABILIZER LINK REPLACEMENT
• REMOVAL
• STEERING GEARBOX REMOVAL
• LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• DRIVESHAFT DISASSEMBLY
• STEERING GEARBOX INSTALLATION
• TRANSMISSION INSTALLATION
• WHEEL ALIGNMENT
• HDS CLEAR COMMAND
• ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE
• CRANK (CKP) PATTERN CLEAR/CRANK (CKP) PATTERN LEARN
• IDLE SPEED INSPECTION
• IGNITION TIMING INSPECTION