Stage 3 Sidewinder Turbo Kit for Acura RSX - Premium K-Series Performance
Our most advanced RSX turbo kit featuring a sidewinder manifold design and premium Pulsar GTX Gen2 ceramic dual ball bearing turbo with billet compressor wheel. Engineered for serious power on K20 and K24 engines in 2001-2006 Acura RSX.
Performance Specs
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Power Capability: 500-600+ horsepower (with proper tuning and built motor)
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Boost Range: 10-20+ PSI with 44mm V-band wastegate
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Turbo: Pulsar T3 GTX Gen2 Ceramic Dual Ball Bearing with Billet Wheel
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Spool: Faster spool than log-style manifolds thanks to sidewinder design
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A/C Compatible: No - A/C delete required
What's Included - Complete Stage 3 Kit
- Pulsar T3 GTX Gen2 Turbo - Ceramic Dual Ball Bearing with Billet Compressor Wheel
- ATK T3 Sidewinder Turbo Manifold (44mm V-band)
- Front Mount Intercooler (FMIC)
- Pre-bent and flared intercooler piping
- Heavy-duty silicone couplers
- Heavy-duty T-style clamps
- Turbo clocking flange for optimal positioning
- V-band downpipe flange + clamp
- Turbo oil feed line
- K-Series Oil Pressure Sensor Adapter V2
- Turbo oil return line kit
- Type SSQV Style Blow Off Valve
- ATK 44mm V-Band Wastegate
- 44mm wastegate downpipe flange
- Miscellaneous gaskets and hardware
Stage 3 Premium Features
- ✅ Ceramic dual ball bearing turbo for faster spool and longer life
- ✅ Billet compressor wheel for maximum airflow and efficiency
- ✅ Sidewinder manifold design for optimal exhaust flow
- ✅ 44mm V-band wastegate for precise boost control at high PSI
- ✅ GTX Gen2 technology for superior performance vs standard turbos
Fitment Guide
| Year |
Make |
Model |
Engine |
Notes |
| 2002-2006 |
Acura |
RSX Type-S |
K20A2, K20Z1 |
Direct fit |
| 2002-2006 |
Acura |
RSX Base |
K20A3 |
Direct fit |
| Various |
Honda/Acura |
K-Series Swaps |
K20, K24 |
May require custom piping |
Installation Notes
Difficulty: Expert Level | Estimated Time: 14-18 hours
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A/C Delete Required: Sidewinder manifold is NOT compatible with factory A/C
- May require modifications, fabrication, or welding for optimal fitment
- Some applications may require coolant adapter (sold separately)
- Professional installation strongly recommended
- Requires standalone ECU or advanced tuning solution
- Built motor recommended for power levels above 450HP
Supporting Mods Required
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Fuel System: 1000cc+ injectors, Walbro 450 fuel pump, aftermarket FPR, fuel rail upgrade
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ECU: Standalone ECU (Hondata KPro, AEM Infinity, Haltech) - stock ECU not sufficient
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Clutch: Stage 3+ clutch rated for 500+ ft-lbs torque
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Exhaust: 3" turbo-back exhaust with high-flow cat or test pipe
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Engine: Built motor recommended (forged pistons, rods, head studs) for 500+ HP
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Tuning: Wideband O2, boost controller, oil pressure/temp gauges
FAQ
Q: What makes this Stage 3 vs Stage 2?
A: Stage 3 features a premium ceramic ball bearing turbo with billet wheel (vs journal bearing), sidewinder manifold design for better flow, and upgraded components throughout. It's designed for 500+ HP builds.
Q: Can I run this on a stock motor?
A: You can run lower boost (8-10 PSI, ~400HP) on a stock K20A2/Z1 with proper tuning, but this kit is designed for built motors. Stock K20A3 should not exceed 300HP.
Q: What's the advantage of ceramic ball bearing?
A: Faster spool, less lag, better oil flow, longer turbo life, and can handle higher RPM compared to journal bearing turbos.
Q: Do I need a standalone ECU?
A: Yes, for this power level you need Hondata KPro, AEM Infinity, Haltech, or similar. Hondata S300 may work at lower boost but standalone is recommended.
Q: Will this fit my K24 swap?
A: Yes, this kit works with K20 and K24 engines. K24 builds can make even more torque. You may need custom intercooler piping depending on your chassis.
Q: What power can I realistically make?
A: Stock motor (conservative tune): 400-450HP. Built motor (forged internals): 500-600HP. Competition builds: 700+ HP with upgraded turbo.
Professional installation and tuning required. May require fabrication or welding. Built motor recommended for power levels above 450HP. Not legal for street use in all areas - check local regulations. Stock photo may not be exactly what you receive.
