I have the original AEM CAI prototype. It was passed on to me from an S2KI member who got it from the original owner.

It's been on the car for almost 100,000 miles, many years and many rain storms. I've been dodging puddles for a long time, but last Sunday, during an incredible storm, I drove through what looked like and inch of water, but turned out to be at least 6" and locked the F20C up solid.

It's covered under my comprehensive insurance so my baby will live on.

I'm looking for help from some of those that have had to fix a hydro-locked motor:

1. Is it likely that the engine could be rebuilt?

2. Should I get a used motor and hope it's a good one?

3. Can you still get new motors from Honda?

 

Did you try to restart it? If you didn't it may be salvageable.

 

I say take off the head get the rest of the water in there and change the oil and try to start it, it's worth a try. But if it doesnt start...rebuilding it will be more expensive but its just like having a new motor and know its never been abused. But if your not looking at Forced Induction or replacing the rods, pistons, valves, etc with aftermarket parts IMHO you should just buy a new motor. There is power in N/A with a built motor. And if your looking to Boost, it gives you peace of mind knowing your motor can handle what you threw at it.

 

Been there, done that, and fixed it in 20 minutes. It is possible, DO NOT try to start it. If you didnt, it may be fixable.

Did u touch the key AT ALL after the puddle?

People dont realize the puddle stops the engine. its the power of the starter that breaks it usually.

The damage is done once you hit the key.

 

another thing....you have to act now to save it. once rust sets in, damage will also be done.

pull the spark plugs and try to turn the engine, by hand.

if it turns around easily, hit the starter button and let it spin for 10 seconds, it will shoot the water out.

use compressed air and blow out the cyls and the spark plugs, put em back in a fire it up.

i did this to a car a few years ago, the car is fine today.

 

After the engine cut off, the battery died. Not even the flashers would go on. I tried to start it, but the starter didn't make a noise. I was hoping it was the battery.

The shop removed the spark plugs and blew out the cylinders, but he only saw 50psi when he checked the compression.

 

It could still be as simple as a bent valve. You didn't turn it over which is good.

 

My fingers are crossed that it's something simple. I'll know more when we start the tear down.

 

OK, I've got an update

My comprehensive insurance sent me a check to replace the engine with a used motor.

I went ahead and had the engine rebuilt.

I had 170,000 miles on the motor, so it was moot trying to figure out what damage was from the water and what was just wear.

Only one rod was bent.

Cylinders were oval so they where bored/honed 25 over to make them round
4 new pistons 25 over
1 new rod
8 new rod bearings
10 new main bearings

The exhaust valve guides were worn and had to be replaced (apparently common problem in the F20C)
Valve seats had to be re-ground
8 new valve guides

New timing chain in case it was stretched by the sudden stop
New Oil pump chain

Replaced various sensors, bolts/studs and all four spark plugs.

Engine was finished up yesterday and I hope to have the S2000 back and running (sans CAI) next week.


Parts took a long time to come in due to the earthquake. It's a reminder of the scale of damage done to the Japanese people and infrastructure.

 

How much was the total cost for the repair?