I have had this 92 4dr Civic DX for about two years now. I've been using it to drive to college and back, and haven't had a job to really do anything with it.

I'm graduating this spring and I'm just now about to get a job so I can start modding. I'd still use it as a daily but I want it to be more fun to drive (50-60hp gain max). The engine is a D15B7 stock to the bone with 191,000 miles on it (it's been to four different states several times.)

Is it worth it to keep the engine or should I swap for a lower milage D16Z6 or something. I guess what I'm asking is; would it be more cost effective to just replace the internals and pistons/rods/valves or swap for a D16Z6?

 

Read up on it.


The d15b7 is a useless if you plan on looking for horsepower, it is really only meant for economy and anything else with it is a joke.

However, Built D16's or turboed D16's make some very respectable numbers, and they are cheap motors :thumbup:

 

just junk that motor, with that many miles its not worth it. event he fact that its a d15 makes people want to swap it out. instead of the Z6 just opt for a B18B1, its an engine from a 94~ integra. that would probebly be the most hassle free swap you can do and you'll have an awesome platform for a turbo. the B18B1 is also a good swap because you wouldnt have to do any wiring for VTEC. all you need for the swap would be the engine, tranny, axles, ECU, wiring harness and motor mounts.

 

B18 would be nice but I'm looking to swap for around a grand. I could pick up a D16Z6 with ECU, Tranny, and wire harness for cheap. Not too worried about wiring for v-tech, plenty of instructions for it on the 'net and I'm practically a certified mechanic anyway.

Besides, the D16 motor is already in town as well as a ZC (might be another way to go). I'd have to order a B18B1 from across state.

 

I have a 92 LX and i swapped out my D15 and put in a D16Z6 and its now a fun car...its like a difference between nite and day...if u want a D16Z6 i say go for it...im glad i did.

 

Thanks for the reassurance. There is a huge loss of compression on the current D15, and it wasn't taken care of very well by the previous owner. If I do end up making the swap (and I probably will), I'll port & polish the cylinder head, DC 4-2-1 header, catback 2.5" exhaust, then replace all the internals and get some forged pistons, rings, rods, etc. Then drop in a turbo after all that. Of course I'll need suspension and brake upgrades as well. I'll post pics as I progress.

 

Sounds good and welcome to HAN

 

Good luck :thumbup:

 

The D15B7 has no potential (I built one). It's fuel efficient, sure... but replacing it is the best move unless you're shooting for high MPG and ET's.

If you do the D16z6 swap, build it for a turbo because I don't think you'll be happy with just a 25-30hp bump. See if you can find a 94-00 B18b1 and tranny... might be tough to pull off on your budget, but the torque would be worth it... It might actually be cheaper in the long run because stock LS swaps do well with moderate boost. No internals to buy, or machine work...

 

he knows his shit :chuckles: listen to him.