I have a spare B20Vtec laying around for awhile. i wanna swap it in my rex but the question is how do i check if it still good? Is there any to check w/o taking the head off. btw the engine is outside not in any car.

 

Without being able to turn the engine over, and not wanting to remove the head, it's going to be very difficult to access if the engine is in an optimal operating condition.

Question: To your knowledge, was the engine functioning properly before it was removed from a car?
If so, just the basic tune up should be sufficient.

 

put a socket on the crankbolt and see if it spins smoothly..open the oil fill in the valve cover and smell it...check the color of the oil..

dont know what else you can do.

 

i had it turboed b4
got smoke come out, some people say it the ring land got bad cuz no pcv valve, some say the turbo is no good....too many things
i guess i got no choice but take the head out to find the true answer.
thanks for ur help tho.