I have a 97 Civic Ex, which i did a b16b swap about a month ago. The car runs excellent, my only concern is what the timing should be set at. I went off the timing of a 2000 Si (B16A2) which I think is 14 or 16 BTDC(before top dead center). I cant really remember which of the two I set it at. Anyways this engine not being sold in vehicles in the US I dont have a clue what the stock initial timing should be. Like I said the car runs fine, but maybe it can run better if I change the timing to stock specs. Any information will glady be appreciated.

Thank You,
Carlos

 

If anything, I would run the more advanced setting. 16 degrees should be fine. The timing specs from the source country may be different based on differences in fuel. Like the UK could run a little more advanced timing since their fuel is higher quality (95 and 97 octane on up). If you are running premium, which I hope we all are, the more advanced settings will usually be beneficial (don't go to far, ie. more than 20 degrees, it won't help).

Just remember that stock settings are not there for max performance, just for reliability. They are safe for stupid drivers that put lower grade fuel, and safe in case you get a bad batch of gas. If you run premium or octane boosters, you'll be fine.

Jung