EM2

  The front swaybar interference with the OBX race header does not seem to cause a problem or make any noise during normal street operation, but just looking at the bar mount bushings you can see that the bar is jammed to the right at least an inch due to full constant contact at the right top corner of the header.  The base Honda Civic EM2 front swaybar is a direct fit into the RSX chassis and is reported to clear most all race headers due to the lager main hoop section.  This civic swaybar measures 15.9mm and the 02-04 RSX-S bar measures 23mm; both swaybars are hollow and the weight difference is less than two pounds.

Front swaybar elimination or a minimal front bar will help put the power down better, but will also allow more roll and lean thus reducing active camber - transitions should be slower too.  From what I have seen all of the aftermarket RSX front bars are nearly the same size or larger than stock and will most likely have race header clearance issues as well, so the EM2 swaybar should meet my needs - low cost, decent fit, moderate stiffness.  Eventually I can see removing the front bar altogether and spring rate can be increased to help combat chassis roll.  Other possible options include modifying or replacing the header or making a custom under-the-header swaybar.

One step forward, two steps back.  Due to the design, the long tube race header needs to be dropped to remove or install the swaybar.  Careful not to damage the [new] primary O2 sensor, the header removal is simple and the new swaybar slips in with just 2mm clearance at the header.  I was expecting more room, but it is a much better fit than the OEM bar.  The EM2 bar has enough room on the arms to accept another endlink hole so I drilled it before the install and I mounted the Hotchkis adjustable endlinks to the newer stiffer holes.