1994-1997 Acura Integra ABS Removal Guide: Clean Your Engine Bay
1994-1997 Acura Integra ABS Removal Guide
Deleting the factory ABS on a Gen 3 Integra cleans up the engine bay, drops front-end weight, and provides direct, unassisted brake feel. If you are building a dedicated track car or a shaved engine bay project, removing this bulky system is worth the garage time.
The Short Answer (TL;DR)
Removing the ABS on a 1994-1997 Acura Integra requires extracting the ABS pump, modulator, and hardlines, then installing an RS-trim non-ABS proportioning valve with custom brake lines. This job takes roughly 4 to 6 hours. Upgrading to stainless steel brake hoses during this process is highly recommended to eliminate pedal sponge.
The DIY Process Overview
To tackle this job properly, you need metric flare nut wrenches, a brake bleeder kit, fresh DOT 4 fluid, and a non-ABS proportioning valve (commonly sourced from a base Integra RS). Begin by disconnecting the battery and completely draining the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir. Once dry, carefully unbolt and remove the massive factory ABS pump and modulator assembly from the passenger side of the engine bay.
Next, trace and extract the factory ABS hardlines that route to the front wheels and the proportioning valve. Swap your stock ABS proportioning valve for the RS non-ABS 4040 valve. This step is mandatory, as it ensures proper front-to-rear brake bias. Finally, bend and flare new brake hardlines to connect the master cylinder to the non-ABS proportioning valve, route the lines to your wheel wells, and thoroughly bleed the entire brake system starting from the wheel furthest from the master cylinder.
Why You Should Upgrade While You're In There
Since you are completely draining the brake hydraulic system and working close to the firewall, this is the perfect time to upgrade your braking hardware. The factory rubber brake hoses are over two decades old, prone to internal swelling, and will compromise the raw pedal feel you want from an ABS delete.
Recommended Upgrade: Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines and a Brake Master Cylinder Brace.
Upgrading to braided lines prevents hydraulic expansion under high pressure. Adding a master cylinder brace eliminates firewall flex, ensuring a rock-solid brake pedal feel when threshold braking into a corner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is removing the ABS safe for daily driving?
The ABS is a factory safety device engineered to prevent wheel lockup during emergency braking. Removing it means the driver is 100% responsible for threshold braking and preventing skids. This modification is recommended primarily for track use, autocross, or show cars.
Do I need to change the master cylinder?
You can retain the factory master cylinder and brake booster, but upgrading to a larger 1-inch master cylinder (such as one from an Integra Type R) will significantly firm up the pedal. Regardless of the master cylinder you use, you must install the correct non-ABS proportioning valve.
