Ok the R18 motor has I-VTEC and with I-VTEC there isnt really a certain RPM where in just VTEC motors that the VTEC kicks in right? Well I have an R18 and ive noticed here recently that around 5200 and 5500 RPM there is a distinct difference in sound. A friend of mine has a 97 GSR with a new B16C motor with civic type R cams, ITR drivetrain, and a bunch of other goodies, well he has a sound difference when VTEC hits. Granted its nothing like mine, but there is a very different sound change. I was wondering if thats how its supposed to be or if something wrong is happening to my cam at that high RPM range. Any answers or possible advice?

 

I think you're hearing things, personally. In the SI, the vtec switchover makes a distinctively loud and aggressive sound at 5800+ RPMS.

In the R18, you don't hear jack. Not only that, but if you DID when the vtec 'kicked in', you'd hear it at like 3k RPMs, because it works in pretty much the opposite fashion of the vtec on the k-series motor.

 

See I was thinking the same thing, then I realized that I shouldnt hear anything since I dont have just VTEC. I dont know what the hell it is then

 

Regardless of vtec engagement you will still have a power band. Which IMO would sound a little different.