The d16y8 in my 97 civic died. Replaced with japanese imported d15b. All parts from d16y8 were compatible except for the single-solinoid vtec valve. I had to use the dual-solinoid vtec because it fit. I lived in Montana at the time and didn't have to worry about smog regulations. Moved back to California. Had to take the car to the Referee to have the engine certified. They told me that the car automatically failed the certification due to the dual-solinoid vtec valve. I was told that was the only issue. I would like to keep the existing d15b in my car. Here are my questions:

1. What is the easiest fix for this issue?
2. I was told that I needed to replace the head to one that allows the single-solinoid valve. Is there any other easier way around that?
3. The referee said that the engine was supposed to have the single-solinoid vtec valve but the engine came with the dual-solinoid. Were they simply looking at what the ECU was expecting or is there another reason?

Thank you all for any insight you can provide.

 

It's the head itself that needs to go. I don't think there's any case where California considers a two-stage JDM head acceptable. That is a part that was never tested or approved in the US.

 

Would it be possible to find a single-solinoid vtec valve to fit the d15b head? I'm just looking for the most cost-effective solution.

 

If they're ok with the block swap a Y8 head on

 

Nope, they do no exist.