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The quest for more power in a vehicle often leads enthusiasts down various paths, but one of the most rewarding transformations can be achieved through an engine swap. In this article, I will share my experience with a $1,200 B20VTEC conversion on my Honda Civic, which resulted in an impressive increase of 75 horsepower.
Understanding the B20VTEC Conversion
The B20VTEC conversion combines the B20 engine block with the VTEC head from the B16 or B18 series. This combination takes advantage of the larger displacement of the B20 while benefiting from the VTEC technology that enhances performance at higher RPMs.
Why Choose the B20VTEC?
There are several reasons why the B20VTEC conversion is popular among Honda enthusiasts:
- Cost-Effective: The conversion can be done for around $1,200, making it an affordable option for those looking to boost power.
- Increased Power: The conversion can yield significant horsepower gains, as experienced with my Civic.
- Reliability: Honda engines are known for their durability, and this combination retains that reliability.
- Aftermarket Support: There is a vast aftermarket community for Honda parts, making it easy to find upgrades.
Preparation for the Conversion
Before diving into the conversion, I made sure to gather all necessary parts and tools. Here’s what I needed:
- B20 engine block
- B16 or B18 VTEC cylinder head
- VTEC wiring harness
- ECU (Engine Control Unit) compatible with VTEC
- Performance camshafts (optional but recommended)
- Various gaskets and seals
- Tools: engine hoist, socket set, wrenches, etc.
The Conversion Process
The actual conversion process took a weekend to complete. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:
- Remove the Old Engine: The first step was to detach and remove the old engine from the Civic.
- Prepare the B20 Block: The B20 block was cleaned and inspected for any damage.
- Install the VTEC Head: The VTEC head was bolted onto the B20 block, ensuring all gaskets were in place.
- Connect the Wiring: The VTEC wiring harness was connected to the ECU, allowing for proper engine management.
- Install the Engine: The newly assembled engine was hoisted into the Civic and secured.
- Final Checks: All connections, fluids, and components were checked before starting the engine.
Initial Start and Testing
After completing the conversion, it was time for the moment of truth. I turned the key, and the engine roared to life. The sound was exhilarating, and I could already feel the difference in power.
Performance Gains
After the initial start, I took the Civic for a test drive. The performance gains were immediately noticeable:
- Increased Acceleration: The car launched off the line with much more authority.
- Higher RPMs: The engine revved smoothly and quickly, thanks to the VTEC system.
- Improved Throttle Response: The throttle response was sharper, making the driving experience more engaging.
Dyno Results
To quantify the performance improvements, I took my Civic to a local dyno. The results were astonishing:
- Before the Conversion: 100 horsepower at the wheels.
- After the Conversion: 175 horsepower at the wheels, marking a 75 horsepower increase.
Conclusion
The B20VTEC conversion proved to be a game-changer for my Honda Civic. With a modest investment of $1,200, I achieved a remarkable 75 horsepower increase, transforming my daily driver into a performance machine. The combination of affordability, reliability, and substantial power gains makes this conversion an attractive option for any Honda enthusiast looking to elevate their vehicle’s performance.