So I recently bought a clean 1996 Special Edition Integra. To be honest, I could care less about it being an SE, I really wanted a GSR. I have the 1.8l NON vtec DOHC engine... It runs so well. But, I feel like I'm missing out because I don't have vtec. The car is completely stock and seriously feels like i just bought it off the lot. Is it possible to put a vtec head on there legally? Will it pass smog. I live in CA. Also, do any of you have any opinions on whether or not i actually AM missing out. I don't want to fix my car up to the max, but the vtec speed and driving would be a bit more fun, I feel. If I figure out how to upload pics I will, it's a very nice car, and my 3rd integra. Any and all input is appreciated. Thank you all.

 

Yes it will pass, and it will work, it's called LSVTEC, do some research on it. How are your mechanical skills? If you aren't that great at working with engines, then I say just do a whole GSR swap, it's a lot less time consuming, a lot less work involved, and around the same price as doing a reliable LSV.

 

So even though my car isn't titled "LS", that's actually what trim it is? I would probably be better off doing a whole swap... more pics on the way.

 

No.

A complete engine swap can be done legally. Mixing and matching blocks and heads is never legal.

In terms of missing out, you have:
more torque
better low end power
better gas mileage
low octane fuel capability

and are missing:
30 horsepower
higher insurance rates
higher fuel bills

 

It will not pass smog. I know because I am a smog tech. It count as modified due to visual inspection.

 

It's not that, the B18a/b engines are considered LS motors. But I would just do a whole GSR swap.

 

Hmm... after that's all said and done, I don't really see a reason for it now unless I have that extra money to spare. It's not like I'll be racing and I definitely don't need higher insurance rates. thank you all for you replies and input. Maybe there are a few mods I can do (like headers, intake, exhaust, etc?) that might help me out all around..? any advice?

 

Those will make it sound different, but we're talking about spending $$$s for 2-5hp.

State exactly what you want from the car, and maybe we can help.

You have a 16 year old car. Replace all the bushings and tie rod ends, check bearings and replace as needed, check shocks and replace as needed, fuel filter replacement, plugs, wires, dizzy cap and rotor, etc... Refresh the car, and enjoy it for what it is.

 

Yea do a good tune up first, and replace any bad suspension parts as stated above. To get an naturally aspirated LS motor to really make power, head work is key. Cams, valvesprings, valves. Then next step would be higher compression pistons and rod bolts for security. But the best route for power will always be a turbocharger.

But for now, if you want to make more power, do the intake, header, exhaust, then I would do intake manifold, injectors, and a tune.

 

seems like you are really not michanically sound, so before anything do some research on the path you want to go. if i was in your shoe and want something like vtec, i would boost. simple t3 turbo on 7psi for a DD would be nice. my brother had one and it did him great. in the end, just research, research before taking on anything project. but good luck to what ever path you choose.

note: if i you want to see what paths there are, just look at other HT members build and get a general idea of what they went through and what you would be going through.