i have a 1997 ex d16y8 sohc. would it be possible to replace the sohc head with a dohc head? if so, what do you recommend?

 

no joy my friend. not going to happen. with the d series the best you can get is swapping from a non-vtec head to a vtec head (which you already have).

 

im pretty sure you can use a DOHC d16zc head, i got one with my del sol i bought and i will know tonight if it works...

 

I promise you, that you cannot put any form of DOHC cylinder head on a D series block. Wont work, not even the slightest chance. The only option you have, is swapping the motor itself, considering you have a vtec head on your motor already.