1990 2.0i 4WS SE Manual - Preservation [Updated May '17]

[Metalhead]

I thought I'd add my project to the list. I'm calling it a preservation as opposed to a restoration as I'm trying to save as many original parts as possible and refurbish instead of replace.

Here's the car on 'Day One'



I'm keeping a blog of the process...

https://corporalgreen.wordpress.com/

and all the pics are here...

http://s1092.photobucket.com/user/phils ... estoration

I'll try and post the occasional update pic on here too!

Cheers,

~Phil.

[wurlycorner]

Same as mine, but manual instead of auto...
What's the Reg?

[Greg]

Great post, looking forward to seeing this take shape. Some really nice BA4's coming through here nowadays certainly encourages me to pull my finger out. There is potential for some serious representation of the 3g on here, hopefully at future shows also

[Sailor]

Excellent project!

[Metalhead]

Same as mine, but manual instead of auto...
What's the Reg?

It's H168 FPM. I've been on the look out for a facelift manual SE manual for ages.... having the rare colour just made this irresistible! I had a look at your build thread... looks great! Hopefully get the two cars side-by-side at a show at some point?

[wurlycorner]

Yeah. I will actually get it all back together this year!

[Metalhead]

Update for March 2017

So, I've spent just over 200 hours on the car so far and the strip down and refurb continues. I've been fighting against some serious bodging, rusted/seized parts, lack of spare parts (Honda have nothing but bolts and washers for this car!) and dealing with a multitude of companies from all over the world who have shipped parts over to me.

The compression test showed 155/130/130/155 (min 135 - Max 170) which suggests the usual head gasket leak between cyls 2 and 3. It seems with the B20A7 it's a matter of 'when' not 'if'. My previous '91 Lude did exactly the same around 110k so I guess this motor has done well? I'm now gathering rebuild parts for a full strip down and rebuild. I've opted for bronze valve guides (ITM), NPR rings, Payen gaskets, cam seals and valve stem oil seals, ADL main bearings, ITM big ends, Gates belts and a few OEM parts as/when they were available. The good news is Rich at Performance Autoworks is doing the rebuild as I have more than enough on my plate!

Few pics...

Rust >>>



Sill end and wheel arch made entirely from filler!



Interior>>>



Suspension>>>



As it stands>>>





Link to full rebuild blog is below!

[wurlycorner]

Oh, that rust is a pita, but not surprising on a 3g unfortunately.
Good work on this. Rather surprised that the engine needs a rebuild! Haven't come across teh head gasket being a weak point on these before, either? Is that the yanks that say that?

Rapidly thinking that I have the only original rust free 3g left! (this year I will finally get around to finishing putting it back together... )

[Metalhead]

Oh, that rust is a pita, but not surprising on a 3g unfortunately.
Good work on this. Rather surprised that the engine needs a rebuild! Haven't come across the head gasket being a weak point on these before, either? Is that the yanks that say that?

Rapidly thinking that I have the only original rust free 3g left! (this year I will finally get around to finishing putting it back together... )

The rust is quite bad sadly (not to mention the filler issues!) but it's all fixable - the double / triple skin at the back of the arches might be tricky but I will puddle weld and build something of decent strength. I've got the 85-89 Accord Coupe arches and sills so at least I have a basis to build from.

The engine issue is just from my knowledge of other UK 3Gs over the last 10-15 years - I know at least 5 that have had the CHG go in the same place, all having done over 100k though. I could just replace the head gasket on mine but given the mileage (145k) I think a light refresh is a better idea long term. I'm keeping this car indefinitely so it makes sense to do everything now whilst the car is stripped - hence changing every ball joint, all the bearings, bushes and suspension (not to mention brakes, cooling system, aircon etc!).

Go on, get yours sorted! It'd be great to have both green 3Gs at a show at some point in the future!!! Not sure mine will be ready this year so there's no rush!!

[wurlycorner]

Mine will be done for jae this year. That's the plan.