Why do single cams get such bad rep?
10-17-2018, 04:29 PM
#1
Honda-Tech Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Apr 2016
Posts: 218
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Why do single cams get such bad rep?
Ok, so the question is simple and I feel like many of you will have strong feelings one way or another about this, but why in the Honda community do single cam, or d-series motor get such a bad rep? I mean yes of course they are not the most powerful engines, and not the best platform for a build, but they are still fun and reliable little engines AND they get great gas milage. I mean you really get the best of both worlds out of a D-series engine, fuel economy and a somewhat sporty little engine. I know the internals aren't the best, such as having thin rods and such, but honestly I've abused the hell out of every sohc I've ever owned, and they hold up pretty well.
10-17-2018, 06:25 PM
#2
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
Ok, so the question is simple and I feel like many of you will have strong feelings one way or another about this, but why in the Honda community do single cam, or d-series motor get such a bad rep? I mean yes of course they are not the most powerful engines, and not the best platform for a build, but they are still fun and reliable little engines AND they get great gas milage. I mean you really get the best of both worlds out of a D-series engine, fuel economy and a somewhat sporty little engine. I know the internals aren't the best, such as having thin rods and such, but honestly I've abused the hell out of every sohc I've ever owned, and they hold up pretty well.
10-17-2018, 07:18 PM
#3
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
I love D series. They are tough economy motors. I’ve owned several cars over the years with B2 and b7 variants. I even one built an a6/b7 Frankenstein motor that made 130hp.....Actually the d16z6 is still a preferred platform for experienced engine builders looking to make big HP. It’s rod/stroke ratio and flow characteristics are hard to beat.
That said, I think the main issue is the ratio of $ per HP when putting a build together, and the B series is just as, if not more affordable to modify. Also, the threshold for power is greater in the b/f/h series due to their greater strength and displacement. That, and the fact that two cams will always provide more tunability than one means other engines families will always be the easier and popular choice by most builders
That said, I think the main issue is the ratio of $ per HP when putting a build together, and the B series is just as, if not more affordable to modify. Also, the threshold for power is greater in the b/f/h series due to their greater strength and displacement. That, and the fact that two cams will always provide more tunability than one means other engines families will always be the easier and popular choice by most builders
10-18-2018, 04:09 AM
#5
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
economic conspiracy: convince the majority that the thing you want (secretly) is undesirable. demand goes down along with prices. supply goes up. you benefit so long as no one figures it out... so shhhh!!!
this message will self destruct in 3, 2,
this message will self destruct in 3, 2,
10-18-2018, 04:31 AM
#6
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
For a SOHC, D series are good engines. They respond well to forced induction when they're properly built.
The problem is they have a lower threshold for reliable power from the factory. For the cost of getting a D16 to 250WHP reliably, you could swap in a stock B series for less money, apply the same turbo kit, and make 300WHP reliably (and with a better torque/power curve, and higher redline). You can also make power on a B/H/K engine naturally aspirated, without stressing the engine in the slightest and keeping complexity down, without the requirement to throw boost at any D series intending to make over 170WHP.
Simply put, D series are not as cost effective and offer far less bang-for-buck than their DOHC counterparts. The only reason I'd ever build a D series is if I for some reason aquired a pre-built/sleeved engine at a bargain price or free.
The problem is they have a lower threshold for reliable power from the factory. For the cost of getting a D16 to 250WHP reliably, you could swap in a stock B series for less money, apply the same turbo kit, and make 300WHP reliably (and with a better torque/power curve, and higher redline). You can also make power on a B/H/K engine naturally aspirated, without stressing the engine in the slightest and keeping complexity down, without the requirement to throw boost at any D series intending to make over 170WHP.
Simply put, D series are not as cost effective and offer far less bang-for-buck than their DOHC counterparts. The only reason I'd ever build a D series is if I for some reason aquired a pre-built/sleeved engine at a bargain price or free.
10-18-2018, 04:49 AM
#7
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
I just rebuilt my '95 D16Z6, and the thing continues to run like a top. Like you mentioned, the fuel mileage can't be beat! It all boils down to what you are looking to get out of your engine. I use my Del Sol as a "nice day driver" to work, but with my upgraded suspension system and braking system, I can autocross it with no problems, and that little D-Series (combined with the low curb weight of my car) can compete quite well with the big boys.
Have fun with the D-Series!
Have fun with the D-Series!
Trending Topics
10-18-2018, 10:05 PM
#8
Honda-Tech Member
10-19-2018, 02:18 AM
#9
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
The 440$ "Vitara / custom length rods" thing
Paired with a 250$ td05 from an evo or something
blows the B series power per $ out of the water.
350whp with TORQUE.
Try that 25 psi on a stock bottom end B series with a torque happy TD05 and youll be happy for 4 seconds.
Paired with a 250$ td05 from an evo or something
blows the B series power per $ out of the water.
350whp with TORQUE.
Try that 25 psi on a stock bottom end B series with a torque happy TD05 and youll be happy for 4 seconds.
10-19-2018, 04:37 AM
#10
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
Got any dyno plots?
10-19-2018, 07:26 AM
#11
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
lol no. bought the car for its heart, wanted a backup for my track car. shell was fairly beat and nobody wanted it. rather than scrapping it, i slapped an engine together with **** i had in my garage from over the years. it is now my work beater/dd
10-19-2018, 09:02 AM
#12
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
lol nice. How long does it take to get to third gear? I would imagine once up to speed, the D will move a teggy around just fine.
10-19-2018, 11:39 PM
#14
Honda-Tech Member
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
10-20-2018, 08:13 AM
#15
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
True, but not totally true. The first gen integra was equipped with the D16zc. This engine came in sohc but the integra was equipped with a dohc variant engine making it unique among the D family as the only twin cam engine in it, and likewise lacking the parts interchangeability that all the engines with the exception of the d17 share.
10-20-2018, 02:20 PM
#17
Fish Twig
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: Still hunting that foo up there
Posts: 15,555
Received 309 Likes
on
285 Posts
Re: Why do single cams get such bad rep?
yup, it came with a d-series, I think it was the realtime-awd version that only came with the D. I don't bother to check wiki cuz it can be changed any time.
10-20-2018, 02:23 PM
#19
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
gowenburnett
Honda Civic / Del Sol (1992 - 2000)
31
05-28-2011 03:13 PM
djsgtrip
Honda CRX / EF Civic (1988 - 1991)
10
08-14-2003 12:22 AM