Hey everybody! I'm new to the forum, and a proud owner of a 1992 Geo Tracker. I don't own a civic, but I know someone who does. Unfortunately he doesn't know how to use a forum. So I thought I could help him out by asking you guys/gals a question. I searched and couldn't find anything detailed enough.

So my cousin just bought a 98 civic EX. The engine in it now is not the original engine. I'm thinking the engine that's in it now isn't a VTEC. Are there any telltale signs to a VTEC/non-VTEC that I would be able to see by opening the hood or feel by driving the car?

The only other things I know for sure are that the valve cover says HONDA and the factory air box has been replaced by a shotty air intake by the previous owners.

If there aren't any obvious signs, what else can I do to figure out what engine is in this car?

 

There is a plate just to the left of the header. It might be covered in grime, but it's a pretty obvious flat plate. It will read something like D16Y8 (which I believe is what that engine is) or D16Y7, D16Z6, or others.



The other telltale sign is a cylindrical thing attached to the rear left of the engine, on the back of the head.

Here's a random pic of the VTEC solenoid I found on the internet randomly.

 

Awesome info... turns out hes got a D16Z6... not a Y8 like we had hoped...

So... would we be able to swap out the cylinder head for a VTEC head? If so, where's a trustworthy place to get a VTEC head?

 

The Z6 is already Vtec..but its not DOHC like most of the other ones...easiest way to check for Vtec other than looking for the solenoid is to get the RPM's over 5 grand and you should hear it kick in...

 

Personally I'd rather have a d16z6 due to their oil flow capabilities (as opposed to a Y8)