Here's where we act like we know something technical about cars. Feel free to ask us about your technical troubles. Write us at tech@superstreetonline.com or Super Street c/o Tech Support, 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048. Feel free to include a picture of your project or tech problem.
Question Of The Month
Q Hey guys love the magazine, quick question for ya. In your April issue of Tech Support a guy was building a D16Y7. You said he could swap in pistons from an `88-89 Integra D16A1. Which brings me to my question, could I do the same swap in a D16Z6? I'm putting it into my `88 four door Civic. If possible, what compression would I have and would it make any difference with my balanced crank?
Bernette Fortune
Via the Internet
A Yes, you can use those pistons just as well. If you use the `88-89 Integra pistons (P29), it will give you an insane 13.6 to 1, compression ratio. But if you were to use the `86-87 Integra pistons (PG6), it will give you a nice streetable 11.6 to 1 compression ratio. The best thing about using those stock pistons, is they're only $45 each at the dealership. Here are three links you will find very helpful. All D series builders should bookmark these links as favorites, for future use.
http://www.honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=335078
http://www.honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=385741
http://www.knology.net/~jediklc/D.htm
Q I have been reading your magazine since I was 14, and I have never put it down. You guys rock. I am an 18-year-old enlisted into the Marines and I am trying to decide on an import to get, preferably a Nissan. I really want an R33 GTS-T type M, but I don't know. I'm also very interested in the first generation Toyota MR2. Will the 20-valve 4AG fit in there? I would appreciate the help.
Orlando `Lendo" Mejia
Via the Internet
A A Skyline of any kind would be great, but lets keep this a bit more realistic. Since you're contemplating a AW11 or R33, we're going to go out on a limb and say the AW11 MR2 is what you can really afford. Yes, all 4AG motors will work in the MR2, even the 20-valve will work. Many people have done it and it is badass. If you get one with a 4AGZE, it's also a great motor that shouldn't be overlooked.
Q I have a first gen Mazda RX-7 and I am extremely tired of the rear drum brakes. Do you know where I can find some disc brakes or what kind of car would fit on my car without major work? Ohhh yeah one last thing, do you know where can find a set of rims that would fit on it too? I've been looking for a long time and I have nothing.
Andrew Brown
Spring Hill, FL
A The RX-7 GSL models are the ones that have rear disc. Getting those parts would be the easiest and simplest way to obtain rear disc brakes. GS and GSL models have a 4x110 bolt pattern and it is very hard to find wheels with that bolt pattern. If you have the money, you can order some SSR MK wheels from Tanabe (www.more-japan.com) in that bolt pattern. If not, you'll have to look for used wheels within the RX-7/RX-3 community. Or try and find some used ones from Japan. If you can find the parts, GSL-SE models came with 4x114.3 bolt patterns which make your wheel selection that much greater. GSL-SE cars also have the rear disc that you want.
Q I currently have a 2000 Honda Accord (2.3L VTEC) with 106,660 miles on it. Whenever I jump on it and go through the gears, I seem to grind going into third. I have come to learn that this is called the `third gear grind', but what can I do to fix this problem? The only time it grinds is when I jump on it. Around town it's fine, but it's bugging me and I would like to get it fixed. Is it time to get the transmission replaced?
Justin
Via the Internet
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