So unfortunately the H23a1 that belonged to this Lude flooded with water and blew cylinder one. I haven't seen the damage but I'm assuming it's ruined and would like to have this knowledge pushed aside for my big question. My goal for this car is a forced induction build but I know nothing about the Honda platforms and desperately need advice on my options. Anywhere between 250 and 400 horsepower I feel is a nice place to settle while keeping realistic expectations within reach. But what platforms have the most potential for something like this and more? Is the H series platform where I should stay or would F series, or B series be a better option? Also if we're asking for a budget don't expect one, this Prelude is pretty sentimental to me, so just looking for reliability but let's make it more fun!

 

It all depends on how much you're going to spend. The platform is aging and parts availability is getting scarce. JDM replacement engines are extremely expensive compared to what they were just a few years ago.

With that said, you can easily make 250-400 on either an H series or an F series. Both can easily do around 300-350whp on a stock engine, assuming quality parts and a quality professional tune. Beyond that either platform will need to be built. An F series(SOHC) will be cheaper to get to 400 with because you can just throw some forged rods and pistons in, whereas the H series will have to be sleeved($$$) to run forged pistons. Beyond 400 the SOHC platform would be very limited in power potential though. You get what you pay for.

There are also other considerations when adding power to an old platform. Like chassis maintenance, bushings, brakes, tires, drivetrain, fuel system, etc etc etc. It's a lot more than just adding power to the vehicle.

 

I figured that's basically my options for something simple and fun. I must say however I am partial to an F series due to the iron block, but is there not a DOHC variant or is that something I must do custom?

 

There is an F22B DOHC, which is very similar to your H23A1 but has iron sleeves and slightly less compression. There is also the F20B, which is effectively a destroked H22 with iron sleeves. They are both JDM only engines and will be very expensive to get from an importer at the current market prices. I was picking up pristine F20Bs for around $500 3-5 years ago, now they are going for around $2000 minimum for the more mild auto version.

You can technically put an H22 head on a SOHC F series block but I would recommend against it.