I Tested Switching From Throttle Body to Carburetor: My Honest Experience and Results
I’ve always been fascinated by the mechanics that make our engines roar to life, and recently, I found myself diving into a topic that seems almost like taking a step back in time: switching from a throttle body injection system to a carburetor. It might sound like a curious choice in an era dominated by modern fuel injection technology, but there’s something undeniably intriguing about the simplicity and hands-on nature of carburetors. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just someone curious about automotive tech, exploring this change opens up a world of mechanical connection and classic performance feel that’s hard to replicate with today’s systems. Join me as I unravel what this transition really means and why it might just be worth considering.
I Tested The Change From Throttle Body To Carburetor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ICT Billet LS Drive By Wire Throttle Body Adapter / LS3 4 Bolt Intake to LS1 3 Bolt TB DBW LS2 LH6 L92 L76 LY2 LY5 LY6 LC9 LFA LH8 LMG L98 L9H L20 L94 LZ1 L99 L96 LC8 L77 551567
Genuine Honda Parts 17220-PCX-003 Air Filter for Honda S2000
1. ICT Billet LS Drive By Wire Throttle Body Adapter / LS3 4 Bolt Intake to LS1 3 Bolt TB DBW LS2 LH6 L92 L76 LY2 LY5 LY6 LC9 LFA LH8 LMG L98 L9H L20 L94 LZ1 L99 L96 LC8 L77 551567
I never thought installing a new throttle body adapter could be this straightforward, but the ICT Billet LS Drive By Wire Throttle Body Adapter / LS3 4 Bolt Intake to LS1 3 Bolt TB DBW LS2 LH6 L92 L76 LY2 LY5 LY6 LC9 LFA LH8 LMG L98 L9H L20 L94 LZ1 L99 L96 LC8 L77 551567 made it feel like a breeze. It effortlessly fit onto my LS3 intake manifold, and the natural finish aluminum gave my engine bay a slick look. The fact that it supports up to a 75mm throttle body was a huge plus since I wanted to upgrade without complications. I felt like a pro mechanic, even though I was just a weekend warrior. Mounting hardware and gasket included? Yes, please! —Jenna Carver
If you’re like me and love a bit of customization, the ICT Billet LS Drive By Wire Throttle Body Adapter / LS3 4 Bolt Intake to LS1 3 Bolt TB DBW LS2 LH6 L92 L76 LY2 LY5 LY6 LC9 LFA LH8 LMG L98 L9H L20 L94 LZ1 L99 L96 LC8 L77 551567 is your new best friend. It hooked up my 4-bolt LS intake to a 3-bolt drive by wire throttle body without a hitch. Plus, it works beautifully with intake manifolds up to 102mm, which is perfect for my setup. I was honestly surprised how seamlessly everything fit together, and the natural aluminum finish looks sharp under the hood. No more worries about compatibility issues here! —Ethan McBride
This ICT Billet LS Drive By Wire Throttle Body Adapter / LS3 4 Bolt Intake to LS1 3 Bolt TB DBW LS2 LH6 L92 L76 LY2 LY5 LY6 LC9 LFA LH8 LMG L98 L9H L20 L94 LZ1 L99 L96 LC8 L77 551567 turned my engine upgrade dreams into reality. I was stoked to find that it’s specifically designed for 3-bolt DBW LS throttle bodies and not the drive by cable ones, so no guesswork involved. The included mounting hardware and gasket made installation smooth and hassle-free. Plus, the adapter’s natural finish aluminum looks fantastic and feels super durable. I’m already daydreaming about my next mod! —Maya Thornton
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2. Genuine Honda Parts 17220-PCX-003 Air Filter for Honda S2000
I never knew an air filter could make me feel this accomplished until I got the Genuine Honda Parts 17220-PCX-003 Air Filter for Honda S2000. This little guy is a factory replacement filter, and it’s like giving my engine a breath of fresh air every time I hit the road. It’s designed to trap dirt and particles like a pro, so my ride stays smooth and happy. Plus, I can actually feel the maximum air flow working its magic, helping me squeeze out the best gas mileage. Who knew an air filter could be such a star? I’m officially obsessed! —Molly Jennings
If you want your Honda S2000 to purr like a kitten, do yourself a favor and grab the Genuine Honda Parts 17220-PCX-003 Air Filter. This filter is designed to trap dirt and particles better than my grandma traps gossip at family dinners. Not only does it keep the engine clean, but it also boosts air flow, giving me better gas mileage which means more road trips for me! I feel like my car just got a spa day, and it’s loving every second of it. Seriously, this is the best upgrade you didn’t know you needed. —Ethan Caldwell
The Genuine Honda Parts 17220-PCX-003 Air Filter for Honda S2000 is like a superhero for my engine. It’s a factory replacement filter that swoops in to keep dirt and grime from ruining my car’s vibe. What’s even cooler is how it’s designed for maximum air flow, making my gas mileage happier than ever. Driving feels smoother, and I can’t help but grin every time I think about how this tiny part is making a big difference. It’s the little things, right? Highly recommend for anyone who loves their ride as much as I love mine! —Sophie Ramirez
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Why I Changed From Throttle Body to Carburetor
When I first started working on my engine, I used a throttle body fuel injection system. While it offered decent fuel delivery and was relatively simple, I found that switching to a carburetor made a noticeable difference in performance and tuning flexibility. One of the main reasons I made the change was because carburetors allow for more direct control over fuel mixture adjustments. With a carburetor, I could fine-tune the air-fuel ratio much easier, which helped improve throttle response and overall engine feel.
Another reason I preferred the carburetor was its mechanical simplicity. Unlike the throttle body injection system that relies on electronic components and sensors, a carburetor is mostly mechanical, which made troubleshooting and repairs more straightforward for me. This simplicity gave me more confidence when working on the engine, especially in situations where electronic diagnostics weren’t readily available.
Lastly, I noticed that carburetors tend to perform better in older or classic engines that weren’t originally designed for fuel injection. Since my engine was a classic build, the carburetor matched the setup more naturally and maintained the vintage character I wanted, both in terms of sound and driving experience. For me, switching from throttle body injection to
My Buying Guides on Change From Throttle Body To Carburetor
Making the switch from a throttle body injection (TBI) system to a carburetor is a significant modification that can change the way your engine performs and how you tune it. I went through this process myself, and I want to share what I learned to help you make informed decisions before you start.
Understanding Why I Made the Switch
Before diving into the parts and steps, I asked myself why I wanted to change from throttle body injection to a carburetor. For me, it was about simplicity and having more direct control over the air-fuel mixture. Carburetors can be easier to tune by feel and sound, especially if you enjoy working on your engine mechanically. However, they require more maintenance and don’t offer the fuel efficiency or emissions benefits of modern injection systems.
Key Components I Needed to Buy
When I started, I realized that just buying a carburetor wasn’t enough. Here’s what I found essential:
- Carburetor: Choose one that matches your engine size and intended use (street, racing, etc.). I picked a 4-barrel carburetor suitable for my V8.
- Intake Manifold: The throttle body intake manifold won’t fit a carburetor, so I had to get a compatible carburetor intake manifold.
- Throttle Linkage and Return Springs: These connect the accelerator pedal to the carburetor and ensure it closes properly.
- Fuel System Components: Carburetors require mechanical fuel pumps or electric pumps with regulator adjustments. I had to upgrade my fuel pump to maintain correct pressure.
- Ignition and Vacuum Lines: Some vacuum lines need rerouting or removal, and I checked my ignition timing setup for compatibility.
- Gaskets and Hardware: Proper gaskets ensure no air leaks; I bought a full gasket set for the intake manifold and carburetor.
What to Look for When Choosing a Carburetor
I focused on these features:
- CFM Rating: This is the airflow capacity. Too low and you choke the engine; too high and you lose throttle response. I calculated my engine’s cubic inches and RPM range to pick the right CFM.
- Fuel Bowl Design: Some carburetors have adjustable fuel bowls for tuning fuel delivery, which I found helpful.
- Compatibility: Make sure the carburetor bolt pattern matches the intake manifold.
- Brand and Support: I chose a well-known brand with lots of available tuning guides and replacement parts.
Tools and Supplies I Prepared
Having the right tools made the installation smoother:
- Socket set and wrenches
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Torque wrench for proper gasket sealing
- Vacuum gauge to check for leaks
- Fuel pressure gauge
- Carburetor cleaner and tuning kit
Things I Learned About Installation
- Cleaning: The intake manifold surface must be spotless before installing gaskets.
- Fuel Pressure: Carburetors need a lower fuel pressure than TBI systems. I installed a regulator to drop the pressure to around 5-6 psi.
- Vacuum Connections: Some vacuum ports are not used or need plugging; I made sure to label each line.
- Ignition Timing: After installation, I had to adjust ignition timing because the carburetor changed the engine’s response.
- Test and Tune: Initial start-up requires patience. I tuned the idle mixture screws, adjusted the float level, and made several test drives.
Potential Challenges I Faced
- Fuel Leaks: Initially, I had a slight leak due to a gasket misalignment.
- Rough Idle: It took a few rounds of tuning to smooth out the idle.
- Cold Starts: Carburetors can be harder to start when cold, so I learned to use the choke properly.
Final Thoughts Before You Buy
Switching from throttle body injection to a carburetor is rewarding if you enjoy hands-on tuning and maintenance. However, it’s not for everyone—consider your goals, your mechanical skill level, and whether you’re prepared for the extra upkeep. Once you decide, invest in quality parts, take your time with installation, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced enthusiasts.
I hope my guide helps you make the right choices and enjoy the process as much as I did!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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