I was re-reading the Improved Touring section last night in my GCR. If I understand the backdating bit, I *cannot* use a 1996 D16 block with my 1990 D16 head correct? I have to use a block from the 88-91 Civic despite the fact (or at least so I thought) that the D16 block from a 96 Civic would be identical. Right?

Ben, who has a chance to buy a '96 D16 block but wants to be a good little boy and follow the rules

 

By the word of the rules, you have to use the entire engine assembly - updated or backdated from another year/trim level listed on the same ITCS line as your car (fact). However (opinion) if the resultant assembly that you describe would be made up of parts with identical part numbers and specifications - both - you would have a case that would be hard to contest...

If in your case, you were talking about a short block assembly (vs. a bare block casting) you would need to be sure that all of the bits were the same. I don't know if they are.

Kirk

 

Kirk's got it.