Combining the low cost buck of the LS or non VTEC engine with a high flowing cylinder VTEC head, the hybrid Honda engine known as LS VTEC is nothing new to Honda tuning. There are many benefits to making a LS VTEC in your Honda engine swap, because there’s bound to be more non VTEC engines for sale than VTEC ones, it’s often a much cheaper and better choice as your Honda engine swap.
So much so that we get a flood of emails daily, so this is our list of common LS VTEC myths that you’ve maybe heard once or twice. If you want to learn more, we covered the topic of how to build a reliable LS VTEC in our DIY article found here.
John Huh
Owner
Common LS VTEC Myths
LS VTEC - What is it?
The hybrid Honda engine known as the LS/VTEC is combining a low cost non-VTEC engine and bolting a VTEC head onto it. There's also a 2.0 liter variation, commonly called CRVTEC that takes the displacement of a 2.0 liter B20 engine and combines the DOHC VTEC head from a GSR or B16.
This unique combination has been around for quite some time, as the LS/VTEC build is nothing new. Looking to build your own LS VTEC Honda engine swap? Check out the guide here for how to build a reliable LS VTEC.
There's a lot of misinformation out there on the LS VTEC setup, so here's some common LS VTEC myths that we'll be disproving one at a time, FAQ style.
LS VTEC needs a standalone
Lots of would be Honda engine swappers hear the word standalone and the cost of additional tuning and components, and instantly get turned off.
But this myth is most definitely not true, because you can use a chipped Honda ECU like a Acura Integra LS (P75) or GSR (P72) ECU, or even the Civic VTEC (P28) can be used. Learn how to chip your Honda ECU with Uberdata, Chrome or Neptune using this handy How To Guide.
Why build a LS VTEC Honda engine?
There’s many reasons behind the question of why is LS VTEC such a good engine, and we take a look at a few of the talking points below.
It’s Cheap – For a fraction of the price, you can build yourself an engine that produces more horsepower and torque than the B18C5 Type R engine. Allowing to put your own together may take more time and effort, but it’s ultimately more rewarding because you know what is in your engine.
More Displacement – If you are looking to build a CRVTEC, the 2.0 liter engine from the Honda CR-V makes for a potent beginning to your LS VTEC adventure. Make sure to check our guide on how to build a reliable LS VTEC here.
Cons of a LS VTEC Honda engine?
There’s also quite a few cons to this setup, and here’s a few of them.
Elbow Grease – It’s petty and a minor detail, but let’s face it the LS VTEC is not for everyone. Either you aren’t mechanically inclined or don’t have the patience or means to properly build a LS VTEC, there’s quite a few people who fall under either category.
Modifications required – Looking to get the most out of your LS VTEC or CRVTEC setup? Take the proper steps and reinforce your engine so that it doesn’t fail on you. Most LS VTEC engines give out when the rod bolt is stretched past it’s tensile point, which can result in disasterous damage.
Have any questions about this Honda FAQ? Building your own and need some help? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
