I have 8k that I want to use to build a 91 civic hatchback I want to go with a k swap this will be my first build I’m hoping to make reliable power what build can you recommend it won’t be a daily but I’d like the option to daily it though in case one of my other cars break. I’m thinking of using a k24a2 block most likely a sleeves one and k20 head Im unsure what head I should use. I keep reading the acronyms but what head would be best for the k24a2. Also I want to turbo the car.

 

Stock sleeves, keep the a2 head. Will make plenty of power on pump gas with a turbo and do it reliably.

Spend your money on all the supporting parts. Fuel system, exhaust, brakes, axles, cooling system, all the missing/worn out parts an EF will have.

 

Any particular reason you are choosing a K-series over a B?

 

so I actually have a B series block but I want a K series because there seems to be a lot of support and I read that b series can’t handle that much boost without breaking
also it is a b20b block that I have I got it for free from a guy in Cali the 91 Civic doesn’t actually need much work as is right now it runs but it has its stock base model engine the only issue is a oil like from a seal

 

Because K is the way and the B series stuff has all become rare and expensive.

Doesn't hurt to start with an extra helping of displacement and along with that a couple extra servings of torque.

 

So I’m gonna get a parts list up and honestly I just want some in sight on what I need to do to make this engine work. Any guys you would recommend with products that can make this project last and I want this thing to look clean. I have a separate budget for looks. I want this thing to be something I can be proud of.

 

The only reason I'm asking is that I just went through the same thoughts and throws as you. I have a virtually untouched EF civic that I don't ever plan on selling that I have been driving for 30+ years. I was looking into something relatively easy to swap out that would yield 400-500 whp on boost, and the turbed ls/vtec B-series seemed like it would get me there with less hassle.

If you can swing it, you could also drop in a 4pistons street build (especially since you already have the B18B core). I emailed them about this a couple days back and this was their response, "The B Series street setup will easily handle 500whp, and it will be ridiculously fast in that chassis. Keep it simple, do it right, and it will be something you can enjoy the next 10 years with no issues.....and quite frankly that is a 9 second 1/4 miles street car with that power".

While I agree that the K is darn cool and has obvious advantages, the gap begins to narrow if you aren't racing, and are looking into a turbo. To me, since I tend to procrastinate a lot and my projects get drawn out much longer than necessary, I wanted something that was more "bolt-in-ish" than the K. I am also further along in my career and the cost set back of the 4Pistons complete engine was not as much of an issue at ~7-8k.

Best of luck with your build. Anything you choose will be wicked fast, and I'm excited to see what you end up doing here.

 

If the Civic currently runs and drives I would go through it and do ALL maintenance items other than drivetrain to make it a very well sorted car before adding the additional complexity of the engine swap. Drive it on the stock engine until everything is dialed, then proceed with ripping the guts out. That will save you the headache of did something work before the swap or did the swap cause the issue.

 

Okay makes sense I’m going to fix any issues I have before the swap but I have my first question what ECU would I be using for my swap I want to get a hondata one but I’m unsure what would work with the k24a2 block is it based on the head or block?

 

RSX Type S ECU.

Or if you want to keep the DBW an 07-08 TSX. This route will require converting CAN bus.