The car makes this tapping noise while driving and gradually overheats. When accelerating the tapping is louder. It still taps while idling. I am thinking maybe the ignition timing is wrong but I don't have a timing light. The thermostat was just replaced. I checked the oil and it's normal level, very clean. So is it probably detonating from the wrong ignition timing?

Also, would a ZC DOHC engine with automatic transmission mount in this car? This engine is carburetted and that is very strange to me.

 

Post this in the classic hondas section , somebody there should be able to help you out . Also try redpepperracing.com , excellent site for the third gen civics