I've always been sceptical about the reliability of LS/Vtec motors but ust recently my friend bought a whole LS/Vtec setup for around 1500.. I couldn't argue that it was quick and ver inexpensive to do. However this will be going into a daily driven ek hatch. My question is if I am to put in new pistons, rods, and wrist pins, and maybe some head studs would my swap be reliable? Im thinking about the b16 head with a b16a2 transmission as well.. I just dont want to go through the cost of sleeving the block.. Thanks for any information..

 

Get it tuned and it will be as reliable as any motor can be. No need for sleeving if you aren't thinking of going oversized or big horsepower turbo. My buddy built me an LS vtec (internally stock rebuild) that I had for 2 years. He daily drove it for 2 years then sold it to me. I also daily drove that motor for another 2 years until I sold it. Got great gas mileage (40 MPG) and made awesome power. All motor 192 whp and 132 tq.

 

internally stock? nice! I've been reading up on this for a bit and most people have ben getting some lower compression pistons and rods but thats awesome man. what other mods were done to the motor? (bolt ons, replaced parts, etc..)

 

Do not go lower compression if you're looking for an all motor build.

Mines was rebuilt with RS PR3's, ARP rod bolts, and new OEM bearings. Head was a b16 but had all ITR internals and manifold.

 

i am in the process of building a LSV myself with stock internals besides P30 pistons

only thing id recommend is ARP rod studs (rod studs are the weak point in a LS)

polish the crank and have it balance if you got the cash

 

https://honda-tech.com/forums/all-motor-naturally-aspirated-44/how-build-%22reliable%22-lsvtec-b20vtec-1676914/

^^ the thread What. was talking about.