The Civic Type R has long been regarded as one of the best bang for the buck performance vehicles on the market, and the new FL5 Civic Type R (CTR) is no exception. While some may gripe about its FWD configuration, there is no denying it is an absolute beast on and off the track. The CTR’s twin, the Acura Integra Type S shares most of the key components and is equally as capable.
While out of the box, the FL5 CTR is an incredibly well engineered vehicle, it still has its shortcomings. The factory cooling system is more than capable of keeping up with spirited driving and a daily commute. However, it starts to show its limitations when pushed hard on the track or when tuning is involved. From a quick flash tune to full big turbo builds, better cooling will always be beneficial. That is why CSF is pleased to announce the new High-Performance All-Aluminum Radiator for the 2023+ FL5 Civic Type R and DE5 Integra Type S.
DESIGN & ENGINEERING
CSF has a long and successful track record with Honda cooling systems. This history includes making factory radiators for Honda Performance Development (HPD). Honda utilized the CSF private label HPD Race Radiator for the FK8 Civic Type R TCR and recently took delivery of a new system CSF developed for the FL5. CSF used the information and experience from building this Race Radiator to design a High-Performance version that would be available to the masses. Like the racing radiator, this new High-Performance version features CSF's latest 5mm fin cooling technology. The new fin design increases the heat transfer area of the radiator by 20-25% over other larger fin designs.
CSF VS OEM
The original OE radiator from Honda is a plastic tank with a single row aluminum core design. While this is generally accepted as good quality and durable, it is not the best option for high horsepower builds and hard driving. Turbo cars get hot, and the K20C1 is no exception. Anything you can do to help keep temperatures in check will improve longevity of your motor and components.
Just like the HPD Race Radiator, the CSF FL5 Civic Type R / DE5 Integra Type S Radiator features the latest 5mm fin technology. The smaller fins significantly increase the heat exchange surface area improving overall cooling efficiency. A larger 2-Row 42mm aluminum core increases the fluid capacity of the radiator, and improves the cores ability to dissipate heat. CSF's Exclusive B-Tube Technology increases the heat transfer by approximately 15% over regular oval welded tubes. In addition, the super-efficient multi-louvered fins maximize airflow through the core for the best possible performance. Overall, testing has revealed that the CSF radiator decreases engine coolant temperatures by 6-8% compared to the factory radiator.
The TIG-Welded 100% All Aluminum construction increases the overall strength of the radiator. This improves durability and longevity so you can be confident it will hold up to hard driving conditions. The CSF radiator mounts in the factory location and requires no modifications or cutting.
TESTING CSF VS OEM
Testing was performed on a FL5 Civic Type R tuned to 294 whp and equipped with an upgraded/larger Front Mount Intercooler. The larger front mount intercooler has been shown to raise engine coolant temperatures by ~7%. This is due to the airflow restriction over the radiator. Test results show a decrease of of 8°C engine coolant temperature with the CSF Radiator vs OEM. As you can see, a radiator upgrade will be very important to anyone running a larger intercooler. The upgraded radiator will also be beneficial to anyone tracking their car.
FL5 CIVIC TYPE R / DE5 INTEGRA TYPE S HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALL-ALUMINUM RADIATOR FEATURES
- 2-Row, 42mm Ultra-High-Performance Core
- Cooling Tubes with CSF's Exclusive B-Tube Technology
- New 5mm Tall Ultra Efficient Fins with a Multi-Louvered Design for Maximum Surface Area Contact
- CNC Machined Mounting Brackets and OEM Style Inlet/Outlet
- 100% All Aluminum TIG-Welded Construction
- 1-Hour "Mirror Finish" Hand Polish
- True Plug-and-Play "Drop-in Fit" Installation Requires Absolutely No Modifications
- Individually Leak and Pressure Tested
- 2-Year Limited Warranty
