d15z1 engine in insight

[RobertSmalls]

If I had to swap a different ICE into the Insight, it would be the 1.3L+5mt+IMA unit from the first-gen Civic hybrid. Basically a four-cylinder version of the same engine, AFAIK.

When the Insight came out, most roads had posted speed limits of 55mph or less, and de facto speed limits of 60-64mph. The Insight was optimized for these conditions, and things fall apart FE-wise at slightly higher speeds. The above engine's extra cylinder might provide enough power to lean burn at higher speeds. I guess the VX engine is a similar, lower-tech option.

I sure am glad I don't have to swap in a different ICE, because I think the 1.0L unit is the bees' knees.

Originally Posted by steffen707

I'm not saying there aren't options, i'm just wondering about the d15z1 option.
With your MIMA setup and IMA turned off, does the 12 volt battery in the engine bay still get charged?

Yes, unless I hit the DC/DC converter disable switch too.

[steffen707]

Originally Posted by RobertSmalls

If I had to swap a different ICE into the Insight, it would be the 1.3L+5mt+IMA unit from the first-gen Civic hybrid. Basically a four-cylinder version of the same engine, AFAIK.

When the Insight came out, most roads had posted speed limits of 55mph or less, and de facto speed limits of 60-64mph. The Insight was optimized for these conditions, and things fall apart FE-wise at slightly higher speeds. The above engine's extra cylinder might provide enough power to lean burn at higher speeds. I guess the VX engine is a similar, lower-tech option.

I sure am glad I don't have to swap in a different ICE, because I think the 1.0L unit is the bees' knees.Yes, unless I hit the DC/DC converter disable switch too.

Well the VX engine lets you lean burn at higher speeds as well. And what DC/DC converter disable switch are you talking about? To my knowledge this isn't stock.

[Angmaar]

What about a 1L diesel?

[steffen707]

Originally Posted by zhillz

The only hard part would be mounts. Use the d15z1 engine harness/ obd1 car harness. Are insights obd2a? They have ob2a to obd1 jumper harnesses. You would have to hardwire all your extra things though such as lights etc.

If they insite uses normal cv axles like the 88+ civics, you can get new shafts made to fit the insight spindles.

I bought a complete civic VX, unmolested by any import tuners, but the lady didn't have the title. I'[m going to pull the complete electrical harness so i don't have to worry about missing anything. I'm going to swap the engine into another hatch but if i ever find a non-running insight, i'll try this.

what have other users gotten for MPG on highway driving with VX swaps into CRX's with HF trans?

[steffen707]

Originally Posted by Angmaar

What about a 1L diesel?

Figured I would stick with a honda lean burn motor, as i've already got one, don't own any 1 liter diesel engines with complete vehicle wiring.

[Angmaar]

Originally Posted by steffen707

Figured I would stick with a honda lean burn motor, as i've already got one, don't own any 1 liter diesel engines with complete vehicle wiring.

Oh, I thought this was a hypothetical type thread. Sorry.

[steffen707]

Originally Posted by Angmaar

Oh, I thought this was a hypothetical type thread. Sorry.

No worries, it is hypothetical, just hypothetical about the d15z1 in the insight.

[RobertSmalls]

Originally Posted by steffen707

Well the VX engine lets you lean burn at higher speeds as well. And what DC/DC converter disable switch are you talking about? To my knowledge this isn't stock.

Neither is a VX engine in an Insight body.

Stock, the MCM can switch off the DC/DC by shorting DVINH to ground. I cut the wire going to the MCM and replaced it with a toggle switch.

If an Insight body does go up for sale, be prepared to compete with other parties who REALLY want one. It's a great candidate for an EV conversion, or to be parted out to Insight owners who need new hoods and fenders, or to be fixed up and sold. These cars go for 200000mi at least, so good ones with bad engines are rare.

CRX bodies, OTOH, can be had for <$500, and they're almost as good.

[steffen707]

I'm sure i won't be the only one interested in it.

Anyways, if anybody knows of somebody who has done this, please post. Thanks.

[zhillz]

I can't go without AC. Here in central florida, its hot!