OK...wrote more but my browser erased it..

see build thread for details. B17a

VTEC isn't engaging properly - it does engage (verified by datalog) with VTEC checks and without, same problem both ways.

it bogs down and doesn't seem to want to Rev and yeah..

filter is clean, solenoid clicks, good oil pressure at block..don't think I have the right fitting to check at the head..

tried engaging it manually from under the hood while revving it to about 3300rpm (highest I can go w/out hitting my launch control, didn't feel like burning another chip just to turn it off for now)

Also made a video
you can hear it bog down when I manually engage it at 00:32 into the video, after it stalls there's no sense in watching anymore as I didn't get it restarted proper/actuate solenoid after that time

you can hear a clicking when the solenoids engaged, well, obviously the solenoid itself clicks but what I mean is from somewhere else within the head it's clicking/pinging .. you can hear it in the video.

https://youtube.com/?m=n3MLO9iAU7w
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Fresh/clean topped up oil, synthetic, 5w30 (winter here can get to -40 although the last few years have been mild and this year has barely been below -5)

vts is showing proper pressure at head before it engages allowing it to engage.

screen looks clean

I have another vtp I may try.

the sound from within the head makes me think something to do with the rockers or pins..? When the valve cover was off, it seemed like all the middle lobes moved..don't think I checked every one but if one rocker was stuck in VTEC I don't think it'd run so smooth otherwise.