So I found a 1985 Honda CR-X Si for sale locally; not 100% for sure it's an Si though. It does have an Si badge on the back, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's an Si. From what I have read, the Si's are fuel injected while the others aren't. So popping the hood should be an easy indicator as to whether or not it's an Si. Any other things to look for?

Also another problem with the vehicle, right off the bat. The owner let someone else drive her car while she is in the military. So they dogged the hell out of the car and slung a rod out the block. Not sure how bad, but it's a rod and it's through the block, can it get worse? Unless it some how damaged the head in the process, which would well; Make it worse. Now, I plan to swap a motor into the car since I am getting it relatively cheap. I do not, however; Want to do any extreme swaps. In fact, I'd be perfectly happy with finding another stock D15A3 to put back into the car but I've been searching for most of the past week trying to find one and not having any luck.

So I was going to possible just get another D15 block out of something else (probably just order one from an importer) and use my top end on it. After doing some reading, I've found that doing a D15 swap on these cars will require a lot of "extras" like using the 88+ D-series transmissions with 88+ D-series axles and either using the stock CVs on them or using the 88+ CVs but then I'd have to swap the hubs from an 88+ as well. If that's the case, then even if I do use the bottom end of a D15, I would still be faced with the same dilemma, right?

Sorry for the wall of text, but I figure if you're willing to help me out then you'll want to know that I'm not a complete idiot and have done some research on the matter. Just need some assistance.

Basically, I want to make this car drivable as soon as possible for as cheap as possible. Looking for a DD in other words. What bottom end can I source that I can use as a stock replacement?

 

Ok, you're not going to like this post, but you need to hear it. I've been driving CRXs for many moons, and the best advice I was ever given on this forum many years ago was when I asked about a car similar to the one you're asking about... The advice was simply: DON'T BUY IT. Move on. You'll find another. Just don't buy it.

There are too many issues with this car, and I know it'd be fun to work with, and play with etc, but don't buy it. If a CRX throws a rod, then "dogged" isn't the right word for how it was treated. Please leave this one alone and move along.

 

Oh, and here's the link to the FAQ where most of your questions are answered: https://honda-tech.com/forums/classic-hondas-106/faq-thread-v1-%5Bno-comments-bumps%5D-2030720/

 

Probably some good advice, honestly.

If I'm replacing the motor though, don't see a problem with how it was treated other than the transmission that might have problems. Defiantly not scared to do work.

Decisions, decisions, decisions...

 

I've been there several times, and it's not easy. Traditionally though, Honda-Tech hasn't been geared towards the first gen CRX or classic Hondas at all. I remember when they were taking votes to even create this forum, and many people were against it. With that said... I'll just leave this here: http://www.redpepperracing.com/forums/index.php?

They might be able to better serve you...

 

I used to own a few DSMs. I am defiantly not scared to pull a motor or twenty.

I tried to register with them before registering but they apparently are having some issues with spammers. I had to email someone a reason on why I think I should have an account, so hopefully they respond sometime soon.

 

Drop another $100 D15 in it, those are a dime a dozen. 85 CRX Si was the best one by far. Fix it and drive it. And yes, join RPR asap. Spam has been a big issue there so it mite take a little time to get on there.

 

Dime a dozen? Do tell where they are hiding, please.

 

there's one in my garage, but that doesn't really help you much. worse case scenario pick up a wrecked 86-87 integra and do the teg motor/trans/axle/knuckle swap into your crx then you'll have a little dual-cammer screamer.. just an option.