Are you looking to boost the performance of your EG Civic without breaking the bank? An engine swap can be a fantastic option, and the D16Y8 VTEC (Obd2 Motor) is a popular choice for a cost-effective upgrade. This guide will walk you through the process of swapping a D16Y8 OBD2 motor into an EG Civic, focusing on converting it to OBD1 for simpler integration.
Many enthusiasts opt for B, H, or K series swaps, but these can be significantly more expensive. The D16Y8 swap offers a great balance of performance and affordability. While information on “mini-me” head swaps is readily available, a complete guide outlining the full D16Y8 OBD2 motor swap into an EG Civic has been lacking – until now.
This guide assumes you have basic mechanical knowledge and are comfortable with engine removal and installation. We won’t delve into the engine removal process itself, but rather focus on the specifics of the D16Y8 OBD2 motor swap and the necessary modifications.
Parts and Swapped Components
For this swap, we’ll be utilizing several original EG Civic components along with the D16Y8 OBD2 motor. Here’s a list of the key parts and components involved:
- Original EG Civic drive shafts
- Original EG Civic engine mounts
- D15B7 engine wiring loom (from a 1.5L injected OBD1 Civic)
- P28 ECU (OBD1 ECU commonly used for VTEC applications)
- Standard replacement parts (timing belt, fluids, etc.)
(Note: The following sections detail the OBD2 to OBD1 conversion for the D16Y8 motor.)
Since the D16Y8 is an OBD2 motor and the EG Civic is originally OBD1, converting the engine management system to OBD1 simplifies the wiring and ECU compatibility. We achieve this conversion by swapping several key components to their OBD1 equivalents or adapting the OBD2 parts.
OBD2 to OBD1 Conversion for the D16Y8 Motor
To make the OBD2 motor compatible with the OBD1 system of the EG Civic, we need to address the following components:
- Injectors: You have two options here. You can either use OBD1 injectors or retain the D16Y8 OBD2 injectors and change the injector clips on the D15B7 loom to match the OBD2 injector connectors.
- Distributor: Similar to the injectors, you can swap to an OBD1 distributor. Alternatively, you can keep the D16Y8 OBD2 distributor and change the connectors on the D15B7 loom to fit the OBD2 distributor.
- Alternator: Again, you can switch to an OBD1 alternator or adapt the wiring connectors on the D15B7 loom to suit the OBD2 alternator.
By addressing these components, we prepare the D16Y8 motor for OBD1 management.
Wiring the OBD2 Motor for OBD1 in the EG Civic
One of the trickier parts of this swap is the wiring. We utilize the D15B7 wiring loom on the D16Y8 motor as a base. Most of the plugs from the D15B7 loom will directly connect to the sensors and components on the D16Y8 engine.
However, there is a sensor located in the intake manifold (on the passenger side, bottom) of the D15B7 that is not present on the D16Y8 manifold. To resolve this, simply extend the wires for this sensor and connect it to the sensor located on the intake pipe.
VTEC Wiring for the OBD2 Motor
Now, let’s address the VTEC wiring. OBD1 VTEC systems typically use an oil pressure switch, which the D16Y8 OBD2 motor might not have directly (depending on the specific year and model – further verification might be needed).
For ECU management, we use the P28 OBD1 ECU. This ECU is ideal for VTEC conversions to OBD1.
To wire the VTEC system:
- Run a wire from the VTEC solenoid on the D16Y8 motor to pin A4 on the P28 ECU.
- Create a jumper wire between pin D6 (VTEC pressure sensor pin on the ECU) and pin A4. This jumper tricks the ECU into thinking there is a VTEC pressure switch signal, allowing VTEC to engage on the OBD2 motor and preventing code 22 (VTEC pressure sensor error).
This completes the necessary wiring modifications for the OBD2 motor swap.
Power Steering Modifications
A common issue encountered during this swap is the power steering system. The D16Y8 power steering pump and bracket are often incompatible with the EG Civic power steering rack lines. This is due to differences in the fittings between EG and EK models (from which the D16Y8 often originates).
To overcome this:
- Use the power steering pump and bracket from the original D15B7 engine.
- To fit the D15B7 bracket to the D16Y8 block, you will need to slightly enlarge the bracket mounting holes.
- Additionally, you might need to grind a small groove into the bracket to provide clearance against the D16Y8 engine block.
Once these modifications are done, the D15B7 power steering pump and bracket should bolt up to the D16Y8 engine, allowing you to retain your EG Civic power steering system.
Final Checks and Startup
After completing all the modifications and installing the D16Y8 OBD2 motor, remember to:
- Refill all engine fluids (oil, coolant, power steering fluid, etc.).
- Double-check all your work, especially wiring connections and component installations.
Now, it’s time for the moment of truth! Turn the key and start your EG Civic with its new D16Y8 OBD2 motor.
If any Check Engine Light (CEL) codes appear, use a paper clip to jump the service connector (located on the left-hand side behind the dash in EG Civics). This will flash the CEL codes, allowing you to diagnose any issues.
Conclusion
The D16Y8 OBD2 motor swap into an EG Civic is a straightforward and rewarding upgrade for those seeking more power on a budget. Aside from the described modifications, it is essentially a bolt-in swap. By converting the OBD2 motor to OBD1 and addressing the power steering differences, you can successfully install a D16Y8 and enjoy the benefits of VTEC in your EG Civic. Happy driving!
