The 37820-RBB-A21 ECU is the correct control unit for manual transmission Honda CL9 Acura TSX models using Hondata FlashPro. While using an automatic transmission ECU offers a budget-friendly alternative, it lacks the crucial reverse lockout feature. This article explores the challenges and potential solutions for enabling reverse lockout with the more expensive 37820-RBB-A21 ECU and FlashPro.
The Reverse Lockout Dilemma with FlashPro
Honda enthusiasts often turn to Hondata FlashPro for tuning their vehicles. However, CL9 owners face a significant hurdle: the high cost of the 37820-RBB-A21 ECU necessary for proper functionality with a manual transmission. Using a cheaper automatic ECU eliminates the reverse lockout solenoid control, creating safety concerns and driving inconveniences. The price difference between a used automatic ECU and a new 37820-RBB-A21 can be substantial, often exceeding $800. This forces owners to choose between functionality and cost. Without reverse lockout, drivers risk accidentally engaging reverse while the car is moving forward, potentially damaging the transmission. This also makes it difficult to teach new drivers, as the lack of this safety feature increases the risk of error.
Exploring the Potential of Boost Control Pin B16
The Hondata FlashPro utilizes pin B16 for boost control in vehicles like the S2000 and TSX. This pin controls a solenoid for boost regulation. Given that the reverse lockout mechanism also uses a solenoid, could pin B16 offer a solution? Theoretically, repurposing B16 to activate the reverse lockout solenoid seems plausible. By adding features to the boost control parameters within FlashPro, perhaps incorporating a vehicle speed sensor (VSS) trigger, the system could potentially engage the reverse lockout solenoid only when the vehicle is moving above a certain speed, such as 4 mph. This VSS-activated lockout would mimic the factory functionality, preventing accidental reverse engagement while allowing for smooth shifting at low speeds.
A Call to Hondata for Innovation
This potential solution requires in-depth knowledge of the FlashPro system and the 37820-RBB-A21 ECU’s inner workings. A challenge is presented to Hondata to investigate the feasibility of leveraging the boost control pin (B16) for reverse lockout functionality in the CL9 Acura TSX. Developing a software update for FlashPro that incorporates this feature would provide a significant benefit to CL9 owners, eliminating the need for the costly 37820-RBB-A21 ECU or sacrificing the crucial reverse lockout safety feature. Such a solution would undoubtedly strengthen Hondata’s reputation for innovation and solidify its position as a leader in the Honda tuning community. This modification could potentially open doors for similar solutions in other Honda models facing similar challenges, further expanding the reach and impact of Hondata’s technology.
This proposed solution could transform the FlashPro experience for CL9 owners, making it a more accessible and complete tuning solution.
