I recently swapped another(first one hyrdo locked ) b18c5 into my 97 4dr gsr. had a few bugs along the way, but its still not running perfect. First it wasnt starting very well and had a horrible idle, replaced a coolant sensor, cleaned the IACV, and that solved that.
But i think i need a new headgasket. The engine is throwing a CEL misfire code for 74 and sometimes 73. It runs fine for the most part, but in say 4th or 5th gear esp. it feels like its missing in the low RPM range. Put new plugs/wires/rotor(sanded the metal on the cap) in... no difference. The only other code its throwing is 65 which i believe is the secondary 02 sensor, which the guy i bought the car from had removed and put a straight pipe in
When the guy put my engine in he accidentally put the headgasket on upside down and when we cranked it we saw the oil coming out the back and immediately shut it off and flipped the gasket. So i just figured id ask if its pretty likely thats whats causing the slight misfire.
It seems like its either gonna be that or a piston ring :/ which hopefully since its a brand new block assembly thats not the case.

As always thanks for the help

 

Once you've torqued the head gasket upside down, its trash. Replace that, and see where you stand. I would make sure you have 2 oxygen sensors as well, unless your running OBD1.

 

ya i hope its just the head gasket and not rings. I think the secondary 02 has always been gone, so ill rule that one out for now because it always ran good before without it. Wish he hadnt put that straight pipe in. Oh well thank ya man.

recommendations on a good gasket? are the autozone gaskets crap?

 

If you copper spray a used gasket, you can reuse it.

But I definitely think that the headgasket has something to do with the problem.

 

ya i was sorta hoping it would be something simple. I know the injectors/ fuel pump are working fine, i know its getting spark. So i kinda narrowed it down to this. ill put a new gasket on and Ill post back if it solved the problem. thanks for the help guys... if this doesnt work im gonna shoot myself haha

 

When it comes to head gaskets, I never reuse them or any gaskets for that matter. I'm sure your correct though, copper spray is some good stuff.

OEM Honda if your going to replace it, or try Provocateur's method with the copper spray.

 

check your compression. that is the only way to get a definete yes/no without taking it apart.

 

Just curious, did you re-use your head bolts?

 

Spend the money and get a Cometic head gasket, Copper Spray, and ARP head studs. You will never have that problem again. I'm not sure how much an OEM Honda one is but a Cometic is only $70 or $80. I would stay away from Discount or Auto zone and such.

 

there are lots of head gasket to choose from. try to check some local parts stores or perhaps try searching ebay.. i'm sure you'll find one. good luck