2005-2008 Acura RL 3.5L V6 SOHC VTEC Engine JDM J35A J35A8

About this unit

Engine Specifications

• Engine Code: J35A (J35A8 Chassis Equivalent)

• Displacement: 3.5 Liters (3,471 cc)

• Configuration: 60-Degree V6

• Valvetrain: SOHC 24-Valve VTEC (Timing Belt Driven)

• Compression Ratio: 11.0:1 (High Compression Performance)

• Block/Head Material: Aluminum Alloy Block / Aluminum Heads

• Horsepower Output: Approx. 290 hp @ 6,200 RPM

• Torque Output: Approx. 256 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM

• Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Requires 91+ Premium Octane Fuel)

Vehicle Fitment & Drivetrain Compatibility

This long block is configured as a direct mechanical replacement for North American luxury sedan platforms:

• Acura RL (Base and Technology Packages with SH-AWD): 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008

• Acura TL Type-S Interchange (2007–2008): This engine architecture shares its foundational long-block design with the 2007–2008 Acura TL Type-S (FWD manual/automatic). However, external plumbing, structural engine mount locations, and the transmission bellhousing mating layout for the RL are optimized for the SH-AWD layout. It is sold primarily as a direct drop-in block for the Acura RL chassis.

Long Block Installation Notes

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION WARNING: The J35A8 is a high-output “interference” engine with distinct drivetrain mount configurations. To protect your investment and maintain parts warranty protections, ensure your installer follows these rules:

1. Transfer USDM External Accessories & Magnesium Intake: You MUST swap over your vehicle’s original intake manifold (including the specific two-stage magnesium cover assembly), dual-stage exhaust manifolds, fuel rails, injectors, power steering pumps, alternator, and A/C compressor.

2. Reuse Your Original Wiring & Sensors: JDM wiring harnesses are cut short by Japanese exporters and routed for right-hand drive (RHD) cabins. Discard the JDM harness and route your original USDM engine wiring loom. Additionally, transfer all of your original vehicle sensors (Crankshaft, Camshaft, and Water Temperature sensors) to guarantee perfect plug-and-play communication with your factory ECU.

3. Retain Your SH-AWD Oil Pan & Brackets: To ensure the proper clearance for your front subframe and the SH-AWD transfer case assembly, you MUST swap your original Acura RL oil pan, oil pickup tube, and side transmission stay brackets over to the replacement JDM block.

4. Mandatory Timing Belt Maintenance: While the engine is resting safely on an engine stand, you MUST install a brand-new timing belt, timing belt tensioner pulley, idler pulley, and a new water pump. Timing components on JDM engines sit in storage and should always be renewed before drop-in assembly.

5. Fluid & Spark Plug Protocols: Replace the front crankshaft seal, rear main seal, and install fresh valve cover gaskets. Refill the block with premium 5W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil and install new NGK Laser Iridium (IZFR6K11) spark plugs. Flush the radiator completely and fill using Genuine Honda Type-2 Blue Coolant.

What is included

You receive exactly what is pictured. Engines are supplied as a long block assembly with the components visible in the photos. Accessories such as the alternator, starter, intake manifold or sensors are included only where you can see them on the unit, so check the photographs before ordering and ask us if anything is unclear.

Before you order

• Confirm the engine code against your own vehicle, not just the model year.
• Japanese market units can differ from the US version in intake, loom and sensors.
• Replace the timing components, water pump and seals while the unit is out. It is cheap insurance on an engine this age.
• Keep your original accessories until the swap is finished and running.