2001-2003 HONDA CIVIC NITROUS SYSTEM Catalog #71002

Before You Install Your Edelbrock Nitrous System

Please read this Installation manual fully before installing this system.

Tools Required:

Hand Tools:

• Socket set including ratchets and extensions
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Bench vise
• Wire crimping pliers, wire strippers
• Floor jack
• Razor blade or other sharp, flat edged cutting instrument
• Vehicle jackstands
• Safety glasses

Power Tools:

• Power drill
• Drill bits

Skills Required:

• Power tool safety procedures
• Undercar safety procedures
• Proper measuring techniques
• Proper electrical assembly techniques
• Basic engine operation and tuning techniques

For questions or concerns, call the Edelbrock Technical Support Hotline at 1-800-416-8628 before starting your engine.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) is a cryogenic gas composed of nitrogen and oxygen molecules, stored as a “gas over a liquid.” It is delivered into your engine as both liquid and gas. It is 36% oxygen by weight, which produces added horsepower by injecting more oxygen and a corresponding fuel signal, similar to a supercharger or turbocharger.

Nitrous Oxide is an “oxidizer” and not a fuel; it is non-flammable by itself. Handling requires safety methods similar to dry ice, as direct contact can cause burns. Increased breathing hazards are associated with its gaseous properties.

Nitrous Oxide is available in two grades: U.S.P. (medical grade, not for public automotive use) and Nytrous Plus (automotive grade). Nytrous Plus contains trace amounts of sulfur dioxide (100 ppm) to prevent substance abuse, which can cause irritation to the respiratory system. Nytrous Plus is specifically designed for automotive applications.

Safety Steps For Working With Nitrous Oxide:

1. Never inhale Nytrous Plus; continued exposure can cause death.
2. Take precautions to minimize exposure to high-pressure gas.
3. Do not vent nitrous oxide in confined spaces; only vent in well-ventilated, open areas.
4. Liquid nitrous oxide can cause burns; protect skin on hands, arms, and face with safety glasses and rubber gloves.
5. When venting the system, direct the line down towards the nitrous bottle.
6. Do not use Teflon tape on fittings; use only Teflon paste.
7. Ensure components are completely dry, free of oils, and solvents after washing.
8. Always turn the bottle off before making any repairs to the nitrous delivery system.
9. To safely release nitrous oxide in a pressurized line: Position vehicle in a well-ventilated space, turn bottle off, slowly loosen the feed line at the bottle until a hissing noise is heard, allow pressure to vent, perform work, tighten the line, slowly open the bottle valve, and perform leak checks.

1.0 Introduction to your Edelbrock Honda Civic Nitrous System

This manual provides information, safety tips, and operation instructions for your Edelbrock Nitrous System. Look for these symbols: ? (Safety Information), ⚙️ (Technical Information/Skills), ▶️ (Contact Edelbrock Technical Support).

1.1 General Information

The Edelbrock 2001-2003 Honda Civic Nitrous System (Part Number 71002) is designed for 2001-2003 Honda Civic vehicles (excluding 2003 Civic Si) equipped with stock or slightly modified 1.7L engines using a returnless style fuel system. Horsepower and torque increases may vary with upgrades.

The system uses a “wet” style nozzle installed in the intake boot after the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and before the throttle body. This nozzle delivers precise amounts of nitrous and fuel for horsepower gains.

The system is designed with flexibility for component placement, allowing for easy installation on vehicles with upgraded or modified equipment. Solenoid and microswitch brackets are adjustable (can be bent, cut, twisted). The system includes an empty bottle, bottle feed line, and universal footprint steel bottle brackets with rubber insulators.

When installing the bottle, pay close attention to mounting instructions and ensure it does not interfere with other vehicle systems. Contact local automotive stores, motorcycle shops, or race tracks for bottle refilling. Always handle a full bottle of nitrous oxide with care and follow safety measures.

1.2 Jet Map Information

Edelbrock Engineering dyno testing indicates approximate power gains for a stock 1.7L Civic engine:

Tests were conducted with 950 psi nitrous bottle pressure.

1.3 Engine Operation Considerations

Correct use of nitrous oxide safely elevates cylinder pressures and temperatures, increasing combustion rate, but makes the engine more sensitive to detonation. To ensure proper performance and engine life:

• System Jetting: Never exceed recommended jetting; excessive jetting can cause severe engine damage.
• Fuel Quality: Nitrous oxide is an oxidizer, making fuel selection critical. High octane and consistent fuel quality are recommended for optimal burn rate. Use the same grade of gasoline every time.
• Ignition Components: Aftermarket performance chips may advance ignition timing, increasing detonation risk with nitrous. Consult chip manufacturers for compatibility. Platinum spark plugs are recommended to be replaced with standard type spark plugs.
• Engine System Upgrades: Complementary upgrades like ignition, exhaust, camshafts, cylinder heads, and manifolds can enhance performance and longevity when using nitrous oxide.

1.4 Performer Kit Bill of Materials

The kit includes the following components:

Nozzle and Nozzle Hardware

• 1 ea. E1 Nozzle
• 1 ea. E1 Nozzle Bulkhead Body Bolt
• 1 ea. E1 Nozzle Bulkhead Concave Nut

Jets

• 1 ea. Jet .024
• 1 ea. Jet .025
• 1 ea. Jet .026
• 1 ea. Jet .028

Solenoids and Solenoid Hardware

• 1 ea. Performer Nitrous Solenoid
• 1 ea. Performer Fuel Solenoid
• 2 ea. Solenoid Mounting Brackets
• 4 ea. Solenoid Mounting Screws (8 x 32 UNC x 5/16")
• 1 ea. N2O Filter Fitting, 4AN x 1/8" NPT, Blue
• 1 ea. 3AN x 1/8" NPT Nitrous Fitting, Blue
• 1 ea. 3AN x 1/8" NPT Fuel Fitting, Red
• 1 ea. Microswitch Mounting Bracket
• 1 ea. 15" 3AN Steel Braided Hose 90°, Blue
• 1 ea. 15" 3AN Steel Braided Hose 90°, Red

Fuel System and Hardware

• 1 ea. 5ft. Length 1/4" Fuel Hose
• 1 ea. 1/4" Barb Tee
• 1 ea. 1/8"NPT x 1/4" Barb Fitting
• 4 ea. Fuel Hose Clamps

Bottle and Bottle Hardware

• 1 ea. 10-lb., Nitrous Bottle
• 1 pr. Nitrous Bottle Bracket Set (1 Tall, 1 Short)
• 1 ea. 660 Bottle Nut and Teflon Washer
• 1 ea. 14' Nitrous Feed Line, Bottle to Solenoid

Electrical System Components

• 1 ea. Electrical Wiring Pack

2.0 Nitrous System Installation

2.1 Nitrous Bottle Installation

The nitrous oxide storage cylinder is called a “nitrous bottle,” an aluminum cylinder designed for high pressures. The valve controls nitrous flow. Accurate calibration depends on stable bottle temperature. If mounted in direct sunlight, use a bottle blanket. If mounted inside the passenger compartment, the pressure relief device (PRD valve) must be vented externally to prevent the compartment from filling with nitrous gas in case of rupture. Avoid placing the bottle in a known crumple or crash zone; never mount it within the seating area of a street-driven vehicle.

The Performer Bottle Valve includes a Pressure Relief Device (PRD), a safety valve designed to vent bottle contents in a catastrophic event or to prevent over-pressurization. PRDs can be internal or external. External PRDs require a safety blowdown tube to route gas outside the vehicle.

Bottle Safety Information:

• Do not attempt to remove the bottle valve; return to Edelbrock for service.
• Never heat the bottle with an open flame.
• Do not strike the bottle surface with a heavy or sharp object.
• Do not drop the bottle.
• Do not grind off or destroy markings on the bottle.
• Do not tamper with the safety valve.
• Do not use a damaged or tampered bottle.

Racing Vehicles: For racing applications, check sanctioning body rules for bottle installation, which often require mounting within a safety roll cage with the PRD vented away from the driver.

2.2 Bottle Orientation

Proper bottle location and orientation are critical for system operation and stable temperature. The siphon tube is at the bottom of the bottle, opposite the label. Edelbrock bottles cannot be mounted upside-down. If mounting sideways (parallel to vehicle axles), the label must be angled approximately 45 degrees toward the front of the vehicle to position the siphon tube correctly for liquid nitrous pickup during acceleration.

The most efficient mounting is the lay-down position with the valve handle forward, allowing maximum liquid use. The horizontal position is an alternative for limited space, but bottle angle is more critical. The diagram shows a 45-degree angle for horizontal mounting.

2.3 Nitrous Bottle Installation

2.3.1 Street Car Installations

1. Disconnect the vehicle's battery.
2. Determine bottle location in the rear of the vehicle.
3. Raise the vehicle and verify no fuel lines, fuel tank(s), brake lines, emissions equipment, or structural members obstruct mounting bolt locations. (Fuel tank removal may be necessary).
4. Install rubber insulators within the bottle brackets.
5. Slip the bottle into the mounting brackets.
6. Mark bracket bolt placements using holes as templates.
7. Drill two (2) 3/8” mounting holes per bracket.
8. If a heater blanket is used, brackets must be 8-1/2 inches apart.
9. Install brackets using “Grade 8” bolts, nuts, and flat washers (not included). Use fender washers for sheet metal mounting.
10. Tighten bolts using thread locking compound (not included).
11. Mock up the Safety Blowdown tube to determine floor exit point.
12. Mark the floor for drilling.
13. Drill a 1/2” hole through the floor.
14. Install the safety tube and trim excess to 1-2 inches protruding below the floor.

Note: Ensure bottle brackets are mounted at least 1" from the bottle bottom and do not cover the bottle label. The bottle hoop is designed to accommodate the insulator thickness.

2.3.2 Race Car Nitrous Bottle Installations

Install bottle brackets according to race track/sanctioning body rules. Contact Edelbrock for assistance.

2.3.3 Nitrous Bottle Installations For Vehicles With Hatchbacks Or Trunk Areas That Are Connected With The Passenger Compartment.

Please contact Edelbrock for more information.

2.4 Nitrous Feed Line Mounting

1. Determine the route for the main nitrous feed line, ensuring it does not run too close to exhaust, suspension, electrical lines, or tires.
2. Attach the nitrous supply line to the bottle.
3. Feed the line along the proposed route.
4. Secure the line to the underside of the vehicle. Note: The stainless steel covering is abrasive; shield painted or sensitive components. Rubber hose can be used as a chafe guard.
5. Leave the nitrous line loose until solenoid installation.

2.5 Solenoid Mounting

Use the following procedures for installing Performer solenoids. Note: Use Teflon paste only on pipe threads; do not use Teflon tape.

Hint: Solenoid placement is often limited by engine compartment space. Observe the following suggestions:

• Keep solenoids and lines away from exhaust components.
• Trial fit solenoids with lines attached to ensure proper fit.
• Solenoids may be mounted sideways or upside-down if necessary.

Preparing to Mount Your Solenoids:

1. Locate universal solenoid mounting brackets and screws.
2. Modify brackets as needed to clear engine compartment interference. The image shows an unmodified bracket and a modified one ready for installation.

2.5.1 Nitrous Solenoid Mounting and Installation

1. Hold the nitrous solenoid securely in a vise, avoiding damage.
2. Install the nitrous filter fitting (Blue 4AN X 1/8NPT) using liquid Teflon paste into the solenoid inlet port.
3. Install the blue 3AN X 1/8NPT fitting using liquid Teflon into the solenoid outlet port.
4. Attach the solenoid mounting bracket to the bottom of the solenoid.
5. Verify the desired mounting location.
6. Install the nitrous solenoid. If access is difficult, leave it loose for easier port access.
7. Leave wires loose for electrical installation.
8. Attach the nitrous feed line to the solenoid inlet.

Note: Mount solenoids where ample line lengths exist between nozzle and solenoids, with slight slack to prevent kinking. Ensure solenoid inlet/outlet ports are accessible. If accessibility is an issue, attach lines before mounting.

2.5.2 Fuel Solenoid Mounting and Installation

1. Hold the fuel solenoid securely in a vise.
2. Install the 1/8 NPT to Fuel Hose Filter Fitting into the fuel inlet using liquid Teflon paste.
3. Install the red 3AN X 1/8 NPT flare fitting using liquid Teflon paste into the outlet port.
4. Remove the fuel solenoid assembly from the vise.
5. Attach the universal solenoid mounting bracket to the bottom of the fuel solenoid using two screws.
6. Verify the desired mounting location.
7. Install the fuel solenoid. If access is difficult, leave it loose for easier port access.
8. Leave wires loose for electrical installation.

2.6 Nozzle Installation

1. Determine nozzle mounting location in the intake boot, before the throttle body. Ensure nozzle, collar, and feed lines do not interfere with vehicle components (e.g., hood latch).
2. Mark the nozzle placement.
3. Remove the intake boot.
4. Drill a 7/16" hole in the intake boot.
5. Remove drilling debris.
6. Check nozzle depth in the collar. If insufficient protrusion, use a 1/8”-27 NPT tap to achieve proper depth. Install the nozzle mounting nut and collar into the inlet pipe.
7. Using liquid Teflon, install the nozzle into the mounting collar.
8. Ensure the nozzle discharge faces the throttle body.
9. Install correct jets into the fuel and nitrous inlet fittings, referring to Section 1.2 Jet Map Information.
10. Install the 3AN lines from solenoid outlets to nozzle jet fittings and tighten securely.
11. Install the intake boot.

Note: Installing incorrect jets can cause severe engine damage. Ensure the nozzle protrudes correctly to prevent fuel outlet blockage and lean conditions. The diagram shows correct vs. incorrect nozzle depth.

2.7 Fuel Line Installation

Before starting, relieve fuel pressure.

1. Remove engine cover shield and intake boot to access the fuel line.
2. Locate the fuel line by the throttle body, connected to the fuel rail and main fuel line.
3. Grasp the fuel line insert and pull it away from the insert to remove the fuel line. The insert remains attached to the fuel rail. Repeat for both ends.
4. Remove the fuel line insert from the hard fuel line.
5. Install a section of 5/16" Fuel Hose from the main fuel line outlet to the fuel rail inlet, leaving about 2 inches of play. Secure ends with supplied hose clamps.
6. Cut the installed fuel hose in the middle and install the 5/16" Hose Barb Tee. Secure cut ends with hose clamps.
7. Install a section of 5/16" Fuel Hose from the barb tee outlet to the fuel solenoid inlet fitting. Secure ends with hose clamps.

3.0 Electrical System Installation

3.1 Nitrous Electrical Components Bill of Materials (BOM)

Nomenclature Descriptions: ATO refers to the fuse configuration. "a" denotes Amperage.

Important: Wiring hardware and instructions are for 12-volt electrical systems only. Examine and follow the wiring diagram before wiring. Contact Edelbrock Technical department with any questions.

It is advisable to have a vehicle service manual and a specialized book on vehicular electrical systems.

3.2 Nitrous Electrical System Wiring Diagram

The wiring diagram illustrates the connections between the battery, relay, fuse, arming switch, microswitch, and solenoids. Key connections include:

• Battery (+) to Relay terminal 30.
• Battery (+) to Fuse (14) then to Relay terminal 87.
• Relay terminal 87 to Arming Switch (7) terminal 1.
• Arming Switch (7) terminal 2 to Microswitch (1) terminal.
• Microswitch (2) terminal to Solenoid (Blue wire).
• Relay terminal 85 to Ground (8).
• Relay terminal 86 to Switched +12V (via harness).
• Solenoid (Black wire) to Ground (8).
• Warning: Do not connect to the terminal marked with a warning.

3.3 Nitrous Electrical System Installation Procedures

Locate the relay and fuse holder harness inside the driver's compartment near the fuse panel, or close to the battery. Connectors are water-resistant, not waterproof. Ensure secure mounting.

Wire Schematic Origin and Destination Map

3.4 Nitrous Relay and Fuse Holder Installation

The wire harness includes 8 feet of color-coded wires. Do not cut wires or complete wiring until all mechanical components are mounted. Route wires allowing sufficient length to avoid interference with linkages or heat sources. Protect wires from sharp edges.

Follow the wiring schematic (Section 3.2) and the Origin/Destination Map. Secure the relay and fuse holder with fasteners, allowing slack in connecting wires. Ensure the mounting surface is strong.

The relay is rated for 30 amps, and the fuse is 15 amps.

3.5 Arming Switch and Installation

The arming switch is a red, lighted “MASTER” switch. Without it, the system is always “on.” Place it in an obvious, easily reachable location.

1. Locate the final position for the arming switch.
2. Drill a .450” (approx. 29/64”) hole for the switch.
3. Insert the switch from behind the hole and secure with the nut.
4. Do not wire until all other mechanical components are in place. A collar is included for spacing adjustments.

3.6 Microswitch Installation and Wiring

The microswitch enables the nitrous system, activating only at full throttle when its actuation arm contacts the throttle linkage.

MICROSWITCH SAFETY INFORMATION:

• Keep wiring away from heat sources (e.g., intake manifold, EGR risers).
• Ensure wiring does not interfere with throttle linkage operation.
• Locate the microswitch clear of normal throttle linkage operation.
• Do not expose the microswitch to liquids like water or gasoline.

The microswitch bracket is universal and can be modified for various throttle body configurations. Mount the microswitch so its actuation arm is triggered by the throttle linkage at wide-open throttle, ensuring smooth operation and a distinct "click" when activated. Trim mounting bolts for a cleaner installation.

3.7 Final Electrical Installation Recommendations

Double-check the following:

1. Ensure all wires are clear of heat sources like exhaust manifolds and EGR crossovers.
2. Ensure wires from the microswitch do not interfere with the throttle body linkage operation.

You are now ready to hook up your battery and prepare your vehicle to run.

4.0 Before You Run Your Vehicle Using Your Edelbrock Nitrous System

Perform basic system checks to ensure correct installation and readiness. Note: Before steps 1-4, ensure the nitrous bottle is closed and the main nitrous supply line is empty.

4.1 Fuel System Check

1. Hook up all battery leads.
2. Double-check all wires and leads for signs of heat and proper connections.
3. Turn the ignition to the “on” position (do not start the engine).
4. Check all fittings for leaks.
5. Switch the master arming switch to the “on” position (it should glow red). Ensure the nitrous bottle is closed and the main feed line is empty. Tap the microswitch; both solenoids should click open. Wait at least 30 minutes before starting the vehicle to allow any sprayed fuel to evaporate.

4.2 Nitrous System Check

1. With the engine running, slowly open the nitrous bottle valve. Note: Engine idle speed should not change. If it does, close the valve immediately and refer to the Troubleshooting Guide.
2. Inspect nitrous lines and fittings for leaks using a soapy water mixture.
3. If any fittings show bubbling, shut off the bottle valve immediately, dry the fitting, and attempt service.
4. If the engine idle is stable and fittings are leak-free, the installation is complete.

5.0 Solenoid Inspection and Maintenance

1. Close the valve on the nitrous bottle.
2. Ensure all nitrous supply lines are pressure-free before removing any solenoid. Empty the main nitrous supply line at the bottle, taking care not to inhale or expose skin to nitrous. Do not open pressurized fuel lines over a hot engine.
3. Remove the nitrous solenoid from the engine and clamp it securely in a vise, taking care not to damage it.
4. Remove the solenoid cover and retaining nut.
5. Remove the coil and housing from the solenoid base.
6. Unscrew the stem from the solenoid base using a stem removal tool or by “double nutting” the stem. Do not use pliers on the stem.
7. Carefully remove the stem, spring, and plunger, noting their assembly order.
8. Examine the plunger seal for swelling, cuts, or abrasions. A contaminated or over-pressurized seal may bulge. A contaminated seal might return to shape after 48 hours in fresh air; otherwise, it must be replaced.
9. Clean the solenoid body using paint thinner or electrical contact cleaner. Do not use oil-based solvents. Ensure the body is clean, dry, and free of oils before assembly.
10. Replace the O-Ring, plunger, and piston spring.
11. Re-assemble the solenoid by reversing the disassembly procedure.

6.0 Troubleshooting Guide

This guide helps diagnose and correct common issues.

Symptom #1... Change in engine speed when nitrous bottle valve is opened.

1. Malfunctioning nitrous solenoid: Refer to Section 6.0 Solenoid Inspection and Maintenance for repair/replacement.
2. Contamination in nitrous solenoid: Refer to Section 6.0 Solenoid Inspection and Maintenance for cleaning/replacement.

Symptom #2... Engine runs excessively rich when system is activated.

1. Nitrous bottle valve not fully opened: Check and fully open the valve.
2. Nitrous bottle mounted improperly: Mount bottle correctly per Section 2.1 Nitrous Bottle Mounting.
3. Plugged nitrous filter: Clean and/or replace the filter. See Symptom #1 for solenoid issues.
4. Low bottle pressure: Weigh the bottle (should be 10 lbs above empty weight). Check bottle temperature (maintain 80-85°F).

Symptom #3... No change in performance when system is activated.

1. System wired incorrectly: Compare wiring to schematic (Section 3.3 Electrical System Wiring Diagram) and wire per instructions.
2. Loose ground wires: Check continuity at grounds with a test light. Tighten/repair loose grounds.
3. No power to arming switch: With ignition on, check for power at pole #1 on the arming switch. Repair wiring if necessary.
4. Malfunctioning arming switch: With ignition on and arming switch on, check for power at terminal #1 wire. If power is present, replace the switch.
5. Malfunctioning microswitch: With arming toggle off, check microswitch continuity. If continuity is present, replace the microswitch.
6. Inadequate nitrous supply: Weigh bottle (should be 10 lbs above empty weight). Check bottle pressure (maintain 900-950 psi) and temperature (80-85°F). Ensure bottle valve is fully open and orientation is correct (Section 2.3). Ensure bottle is mounted properly (Section 2.1).
7. Loose nitrous solenoid wiring: Inspect wiring (Section 3.4) and repair as necessary.
8. Malfunctioning nitrous solenoid: Inspect wiring (Section 3.4) and repair. Inspect solenoid per Symptom #2. Rebuild/replace solenoid.

Symptom #4... Engine detonates mildly when system is activated.

1. Inadequate octane fuel: Use higher-octane fuel.
2. Spark plug heat range too high: Verify spark plug heat range and function in high-load applications. Install a performance spark plug or reduce spark plug heat range.
3. Too much nitrous flow: Verify nitrous jet size and install the proper jet. Check bottle temperature and pressure; ensure they are correct before each use.

Symptom #5... Vehicle surges under acceleration when system is activated.

1. Inadequate nitrous supply: Weigh bottle (should be 10 lbs above empty weight). Check bottle temperature (maintain 80-85°F). Ensure bottle valve is fully open and orientation is correct (Section 2.3). Ensure bottle is mounted properly (Section 2.1).