Convert Civic CX to VX?

[klipsch21]

I have a CX that is in need of a rebuild soon. I would like to turn it into a vx. (for mpg) My question is can I turn my block into a VX by installing vx pistons and getting a Z1 head?

I guess my question in a nutshell is, is a CX and VX block the same? I know the pistons and head is different. Anything else?

P.S. I know I would also need to change my 02 to 5 wire and get a vx ecu and possibly intake manifold?

[Ryland]

How many miles are on your current engine that you need a rebuild?
I would personally go for a complete engine swap as you can check over your new engine while still driving the car, the cost of a head and other parts seem like they would out weigh the cost of buying a complete used engine.

[tanjulio]

The engines are slightly different: block and head,
correct on the listed information.
Oxygen sensor on VX is a 5 plug one vs 2 plug;
vx had vtec e or something like vtec but for economy; ecu does all the work.
rims were different vx had aluminum 13 inch wheels and some minor "aero' modifications; nothing special.

I think if u google it u may find the answer

Convert CX to VX question - Honda-Tech
This one has more info and some info on turbo charging your little honda engine.
Understanding the '92 - '95 Civic CX and VX

GOOD LUCK; i am sure u don't need it...

[FlashT]

If the pistons and head are different, then the rods, bearings, cams, valves, lifters, gaskets, studs, strech bolts, fuel rail and injectors, exhaust/intake manifolds, and probably a host of other components will be different as well. Make sure to check your ring clearances before you install the new pistons. Also keep in mind valve clearances and check that the compression ratio that you want is suitable with those pistons.

And not to be offensive, but if you have to ask, then someone who is very knowledgeable about engines should probably be assisting you. I hope you achieve the aim of your project!

[tanjulio]

Don't guess if the parts will work,
just download the manuals this website has the actual manual.

Honda / Acura Manuals - Hondahookup.com

just join and download. the best as it worked, when i had my 93 civic it was very useful..

I honestly don't think it's that useful to change from a cx to vx.
what is the benefit, the both get the comparable mpg...
and with the crappy stock transmission u wont see much differencen in lack of performance...

ur call.
SAM.

[briogio]

Well as I've painfully found out, you have to have the right exhaust manifold with 5 wire O2 sensor,(expensive!), an EGR valve with accompanying soleniod, wiring, and box thing with some other bit, not forgetting the P07 ECU all wired up into existing harness. So it's not simple and it's certainly not cheap

[Ryland]

The whole VX engine is different, it has a larger main bearing, like the 1.6L engines, it also has the 1.6 connecting rods (heavier), but has a 1.5L crank.
Head is Vtec-e, so the wiring harness has the V-tec hookups on it, same with the ECU, the wiring harness also has the 5 wire hookup for the o2 sensor, now apparently all 1992 civic hatch backs had this same wiring harness and in later years they got rid of the extra connections.
civic VX then has the extra front lower lip, if it didn't have A/C then it had a grill block that blocked off 3/4 of the grill, not sure about the cx but the vx has a half size radiator.
Inside you have a tac, up shift light and no other frills unless you ordered them from the factory.

[NachtRitter]

Redline on VX is also lower... something like 6,500 rpm instead of 7,200 rpm.

[usergone]

I'll bet you could find a wrecked VX for not too much, then just swap everything over. Not simple, not efficient, not easy. Selling a CX then buying a VX would be much faster and probably easier.

I would be a hypocrite to type that without the footnote that that will only work for you if you are not attached to your car and are economically capable. Look at me with my heavy jeep pickup truck :shrug: