The NSX’s 4-Channel ABS system was cutting-edge when it debut 30 years ago. Each wheel has its own sensor and can be independently controlled, enabling for far better brake line pressure control and modulation to prevent tire lock, especially on bumpy roads or where one tire has significantly less grip than the others.
In reality, in addition to its tiny front tires, the NSX was never strong in the braking department, even for its era. The pulses of the ABS pump are slow by modern standards and only worsen as the pumps start to get sticky with age. Even a relatively well cared for NSX ABS system can result in minor lock ups as the ABS cycles the brake pressure. An experienced driver can outperform the stock ABS in most conditions. Not that you want to rely on this ability in an emergency situation. There is a lot of room for improvement by upgrading the ABS to a more modern setup.
Enter the 2000+ NSX ABS Module that we picked up from Science of Speed. PN 57110-SL0-Z03 is the US-spec ABS pump that has 57105SL0 010 written on the unit itself as an internal company part number. There is another pump for the 2002 NSX-R, part number 57110-SL0-N21.
Science of Speed is the only company who offers a comprehensive “NA2 ABS Conversion Upgrade” including epoxy potted electrical harness and a full step-by-step instruction manual. The modulator, hard lines, brackets, proportioning valve, and all necessary hardware to do the install. This is technically not an accurate description because “NA2” cars started in 1997 with the larger 3.2L V6 engine. It is more accurate to call this the “2000+ ABS Conversion Upgrade”.
Nissin utilized the Bosch-style solution of combining the modulator and electronic controller in one unit. This design and packaging pretty much set the standard for which pretty much every car on the road uses today. Modern ABS systems have a considerably faster “cycle” time, which react to road surfaces quicker and the higher frequency pulses better mitigate lockup and improve braking performance.
10 comments
OK, that’s just lovely. Wish the multipad stuff was more commonplace but even the “budget” ZR34/ZR94 calipers look pretty nice.
The individual pads was clever. But I think the hat to rotor retention was even more clever!
Any idea if the NSX ABS module is similar to the S2k stuff? I am kicking around adding the S2k ABS system to my 240sx as it is a self contained standalone setup. Would be nice to go from no ABS to something more modern and workable.
It’s somewhat similar. The programming is different and there are some hardware differences. People have used it on the NSX but I do not how know it performs vs a system designed for the NSX, however for your application it may be a better option.
I had no idea individual pads were so rare in the automotive world. In the motorcycle industry, lots of even stock calipers use 4 individual pads.
Neat. A lot of new information in this thread. I am one of those people who thought PFC was left only for those in NASCAR circles etc. I have a 328mm Stoptech ST40 kit behind 18″ TE37s. I thought they were cool (just like Milhouse’s mom), but you said otherwise.
They’ve been in formula cars, prototypes, and sportscars for decades. I never said anything bad about StopTech. They are a great product at a great price point and put far more engineering and focus on brake bias for each application than their competitors.
13″ rotors behind 18″ is too small you said. small rotor envy 🙁
Thank you so much for this excellent, well written article. It saved me a lot of trouble with my NSX as I went about some upgrades.
Thank you for this excellent, well written article. It saved me a lot of trouble with some upgrades I’m doing with my NSX.