I already searched and read the thread that covers VTEC issues (among about 20 other threads) but I still cannot find a solution. I have a OBD1 H22A JDM motor swapped into a 2000 Civic Ex. I am using a OBD2 to OBD1 Jumper and a chipped JDM P08 ECU.

- The engine runs fine other than VTEC not working
- No check engine light is on (verified the light works upon ignition)
- VSS and Tach both work fine
- Vehicle is at normal operating temp
- Oil pan was dented so I dropped it and hammered out the "cave in". I noticed that the oil pick-up was partially bent on the dome part so I carefully bent it back with a screw driver.
- Checked solenoid and the magnet works and it clicks when connected to 12v
- Checked both screens on the upper solenoid and lower spool and they are clean. The seals also look good and there aren't any leaks
- I checked the solenoid and the VTEC pressure switch and they both have continuity from the ECU to the engine plugs
- I thought the ECU was bad but I got a hold of a chipped P28 off a running car that waas hitting VTEC but when I swapped it into mine I still don't get VTEC


Today I checked the the VTEC pressure with a gauge and I'm getting 70psi at 5k. I was happy about this because it eliminates a bunch of problems. Anyone have any idea of what could be causing the VTEC to malfunction?

Greenz

 

What is the CEL on for? I didn't see that you mentioned that.

 

It's not on at all (bullet point #2 on first post).

 

How did you check the VTEC pressure? Just curious...

This may be answered by point #8&9, is the solenoid grounded and all wires go to the correct pin in the ecu?

 

I unbolted the 10mm bolt on the top left corner of the head and inserted an M10x1.00 oil pressure test gauge. Make sure to use teflon tape or you won't get a solid seal. Rev and hold the car at 5k RPM and take a reading off the gauge.

The solenoid is grounded to the wire harness and the power wires are connected to the correct ECU pins (I believe it was A4 and D6 but I don't have the book with me).

 

Well check your ground again that could be the problem.

 

I'm guessing it's something mechanical. Valvetrain related or timing related

 

Did you find the solution yet?

Would it not be better to have it grounded to the block, and not through the harness? Seems simpler...that's how I did mine.

 

did you figure it out? im having similar issues. it seems whenever you find these posts similar to your own problem the replies etc just stop, suggesting it has been resolved but the thread starter never posts whether its fixed or not and what the problem was and just forgets about the thread which makes it useless do the countless number of people that stumble upon the thread looking for answers, lol