Best Throttle Body Upgrades for B Series Engines
Fans of B Series engines know that shifting air in and out is crucial for peak performance. The 70mm and 66mm throttle bodies below are among the most popular upgrades for Honda B/D/H/F family platforms, offering improved airflow, throttle response, and potential horsepower gains. This article highlights five top options, with objective specs and fitment details to help you choose the right match for your build.
| Product | Brand | Inlet Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skunk2 Alpha 70mm Throttle Body | Skunk2 Racing | 70mm | Precision die-cast aluminum, fine shot-blasted, OEM throttle cable compatible |
| Skunk2 Alpha 66mm Throttle Body | Skunk2 Racing | 66mm | Smaller inlet with OEM cable compatibility |
| JIK 70mm Alpha Series Throttle Body | JIK | 70mm | For Honda B/D/H/F series, 309-05-1050, standard inlet |
| PQY 70mm Throttle Body Kit | PQY | 70mm | Includes TPS and MAP sensors; claims 12-15 WHP gains |
| LSSOCH 70mm Throttle Body With Sensor | LSSOCH | 70mm | 70mm with sensor; compatible across multiple B/D/H/F models |
Skunk2 Alpha 70mm Throttle Body — Overview
The Skunk2 Alpha 70mm throttle body is manufactured from precision die-cast aluminum, featuring a fine shot-blasted surface. With a 70mm inlet, it aims to improve airflow over the stock unit while maintaining compatibility with OEM throttle cables. This makes installation straightforward for many B/D/H/F engines while delivering cleaner throttle response and potential power gains for tuned setups. The Alpha line is designed for reliability and consistent performance under varied load conditions, making it a common choice for enthusiasts building street or occasional track cars.
Tektall 309-05-1050 70mm Replacement Kit
The Tektall kit targets Acura Integra, Civic, and S2000 applications with fitment notes aligning to the 309-05-1050 family. It references multiple OE part numbers to ensure compatibility while indicating the need for a compatible manifold in some builds. This option is positioned as a direct replacement or upgrade path for enthusiasts who require a specific 309-05-1050 family component, with emphasis on ensuring proper pairing with supporting intake hardware for optimal results.
Skunk2 Alpha 66mm Throttle Body — Alternative Inlet Size
The 66mm variant from Skunk2 Alpha family provides a middle ground between stock and larger throttle bodies. With a precision die-cast aluminum build and the same emphasis on OEM throttle cable compatibility, this option can suit builds seeking improved intake flow without the potential throttle response changes that come with a larger bore. It remains a popular choice for street-driven B/D/H/F engines where reliability and ease of install are priorities.
PQY 70mm Throttle Body Kit
PQY markets a 70mm throttle body kit that includes a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and MAP sensor for a complete sensor-ready upgrade. It is positioned as compatible with a wide range of B and D/H/F-series engines, with application notes that reference B16/B18/B20 and D-series variants. PQY emphasizes a larger bore with idle adjustment screws for fine tuning, with a stated potential horsepower gain of 12-15 WHP in some configurations. This option suits those who want a sensor-equipped upgrade with easy calibration paths.
JIK 70mm Alpha Series Throttle Body
The JIK throttle body in 70mm Alpha series targets Honda B/D/H/F platforms, using the 309-05-1050 reference. It emphasizes a standard 70mm inlet and compatibility with typical B-series intake setups. This option is positioned for builders who want a straightforward upgrade path with a recognizable brand profile, offering predictable performance while preserving OEM cable compatibility in many applications.
LSSOCH 70mm Throttle Body With Sensor
LSSOCH offers a 70mm throttle body with sensor integration for Acura Integra and broader B/D/H/F family fits. The product emphasizes compatibility with multiple model years and engine displacements, designed for use with sensor-ready manifolds and related intake components. This option can suit more comprehensive builds that require integrated sensor feedback for accurate fuel and ignition tuning, especially in higher-performance or forced-induction setups.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For B Series Throttle Body Upgrades
- Compatibility and fitment: Verify make, model, engine variant (B16, B18, B20, D-series, H-series, F-series) and required manifold or mounting hardware. Some listings note the need for specific manifolds or additional sensors.
- Inlet diameter: Common options include 66mm and 70mm. Larger bores can increase airflow but may alter throttle response and require tuning and proper intake plumbing.
- Sensor integration: Decide if you need a kit with TPS/MAP sensors included or if you already have compatible sensors. Sensor-equipped models simplify wiring and calibration.
- Build quality and finish: Die-cast aluminum with a smooth finish can reduce flow resistance and improve durability. Look for surface treatments that resist corrosion and promote consistent airflow.
- OEM compatibility: Some products emphasize easy installation with existing throttle cables. Confirm compatibility with your car’s throttle linkage and electronics to avoid mismatch.
- Tuning requirements: Upgrades often require ECU remapping or fuel trim adjustments. Plan for dyno tuning or professional tuning to realize potential gains safely.
- Installation scope: Some parts pair with aftermarket manifolds or require additional components (gaskets, adapters). Subtle changes in intake plumbing can impact fitment and performance.
- Brand and support: Reputable brands frequently offer better documentation, clearer fitment notes, and customer support, which helps during installation and troubleshooting.
In choosing a throttle body upgrade for B Series engines, consider your goals—street reliability, track performance, or a balanced daily driver. The 70mm options generally aim to improve airflow and throttle response, while 66mm variants provide a more conservative upgrade that preserves drivability. Sensor-equipped kits can simplify tuning, whereas bare aluminum bodies emphasize raw airflow gains with more hands-on calibration.