Because the car is a '93, it's a DX. The CX is aD15b8 8-valve that makes 30 less hp. You need the 16v head that goes with your b7. The CX's use totally different ECU's o2 sensors and injectors. If you follow the instructions in the manual word-for-word, there's no way you'll get your timing wrong. Do a leakdown compression test and verify the rings are good first. I have a VX gauge cluster of a 1.5L that went 364,000 miles, so I know these D15's will run forever if properly maintained.

 

Should I do the leak down before pulling the bad head? I am thinking I am just going to pull the head like you are all saying and have it machined and put a good head gasket kit in it. Any suggestions on a head gasket kit? I always try and put the best quality for my mone into my car so it doesn't shit on me later LoL.

 

when i built my dx motor, i bought a head gasket set from BAP-GEON for $90. As long as the head or the block aren't warped, the gasket doesn't make much difference unless you're making 300+hp (which you will not). A leakdown test will tell you if the rings are any good, or if the valves are the culprit of compression loss. If the rings are shot, then rebuilding the head won't fix anything. It's best to know that before tearing the motor down. There's a link to my civic build through the links in my signature. You might find them informative for what you want to do.

 

I am thinking having my head reconditioned will be the best way to go. my friend had the compression checked a few months back and had 95% compression(this is before he sold me the car). But those test lie compared to a leak down. I may just go pick up a head from pick-n-pull to put on there so I can drive the car while I wait for my head to be reconditioned. Anyone know of any good places to send it? I am in CA so maybe not but its worth a shot.

Oh and where can I get a leak down test and about how much do they cost?