I have asked this question before but answers were not forthcoming. Let me try again.

I have researched a bit and have found several 11.7 compression cars that are generally available in Europe. I guess that getting the japanese version head gasket or the Spoon head gasket would improve performance without detrimental effects.

The head gasket is inexpensive, my only concern is whether cracking the engine open will not put it's integrity at risk... Any words of wisdom? This would be performed by the dealer.

 

are you suggesting that by getting the japanese or european head gasket will give you 11.7:1 compression? not likely.

The difference in compression in the japnanese and euro cars are most likely from different pistons.

but to answer your question... changeing a head gasket it normally not a such a big deal... IF, you know what your doing. Basically, if you feel uncomfortable about doing it yourself, you probably shouldnt.

get the shop manual. it has detailed instructions.

-jason

 

I agree with j2k, I can't imagine that simply changing the head gasket would have any real impact on the compression ratio. I thought you might want to change it because of a leak or something.

The biggest issue, IMO, would be torqueing the head bolts down to the right spec and also doing them in the proper sequence...other than that, it's not a huge job.

 

Head gaskets are a common way to make small changes in CR. Probably need an answer from one of the Honda mechanics / re-builders here for details on procedure.

It is a bit more of a job on an OHC engine just because you must get the cams and related gear out to get to the head bolts. So I guess cams would have to be clocked and lash set on reassembly.

Also think that the aluminum assemblies are a bit more fragile and prone to warping than iron components. So there is a small chance of problems with a seal long term.

I am not experienced with Honda head gasket procedures, but would estimate that it could be routine but time consuming for an experienced mechanic, with no large risk.

 

YES, the difference from the japanese S2000 and all others is the headgasket. The Japanese one is thinner ( higher compression). Change is not that hard, but be sure to have good tools and the service manual ( Very Important).

 

Yes a thinner head gasket will give you higher CR and more ponies. Going to a Japanesse spec gasket should give you no problems, especially if it is OEM or HQ aftermarket like Spoon. http://www.helminc.com for the service manual. I'd buy it, read it and then decide if it looks to complex a job to do yourself. Only you will be able to answer than, it's you that's taking the top half of your engine off after all. Deciding it's too big or challenging a job is best decided BEFORE you take the engine apart. A lot depends on how much you have to take apart before you can get to the bolts that hold the engine together.

 

I'd recommend you let an experienced mechanic tackle this one. I did the top end on my slammer pickup and it was quite a task. Had the bed of the truck full of parts. My wife was getting worried. Even worse the timing chain and gears were worn so had to take the front of the engine down too. As far as the increased compression ratio; It doesn't take much of a thinner gasket to increase the ratio.

 

So the consensus is that, as long as it is done properly, there is nothing inherently risky about doing this.

I'll now have to ask the dealer how much he would charge me to perform such an operation.

Last question: I can either get a JDM Honda gasket (compression 1:11.7) or a Spoon gasket (compression 1:12.2).

What is the risk of getting excessive pinging with the Spoon gasket versus Honda (I can get consistent 98RON (93MON) gas).

 

Well you're probably fine both ways. The ECU should handle the pinging for you I would think.

 

Not really... The ECU can only react not prevent.