Correct, head gaskets were an issue for the early CVCC engines. My 81 Civic had already had the head gasket replaced, though I wasn't sure about the
83. I don't believe the problem was ever truly resolved until the 1.3, 1.6 and 1.8 engines were redesigned in 1984 (dropping the cvcc design) But otherwise, they were very reliable and durable little motors. The carbs were another issue, but they usually didn't start acting up til well over 100,000 miles. My 83 still has the original carb with over 180,000 miles.