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So, came to the states a few years back, grew up in Switzerland working on Lancia's, alpine's, and old bmw's with my dad and grandfather in the garage, never got into any serious engine work myself but the time has come.

I recently acquired a 1998 Honda Civic Ex 1.6L d16y8 (V-Tec) 5-spd. Unfortunately it came into my possession under bad circumstances - a lot is wrong and it's been abused.

Anyways, I'm starting college and I'm not looking to upgrade or modify anything yet, I just need some hardcore real tech and engine advice here. The other day I start out driving here and there's this awful clacking coming from inside the block. Upon further investigation, we learned that the block is a D16Y7 (not original), but that the heads are from the original D16Y8 with the VTEC. I recently heard that the D16Y7 block is actually stronger than the D16Y8. True?

The problem now is, i opened the oil pan to find there was no oil sheath (the oil light hadn't been on - faulty oil sensor) and so it looks like the low oil pressure, from little oil getting into the engine has killed a bearing. I bought a $40 bearing kit and replaced the four lower bearings because one was loose. I also bought an oil sheath and bolted that in along with the oil pressure gauge - no more oil problems. Didn't solve the main problem however. It's got to be a main bearing on the shaft. I don't believe it's worth fixing. Is it easier and more cost effective if I go and find a solid block and drop my heads in it? And then... what do I look for in a block? I know i want the crank to be able to be turned - don't want a ceased engine, and I want to know what to look for on the block. No rust in the water tubing where the head gasket goes, etc. When searching for a used block however, I've also heard that the crank needs to come out and be inspected, polished, and rubbed down by a machine shop no matter what someone says because you never know.

The next questions come down to... I live in Orlando, Florida, I'd like a nice recommendation for a machine shop and a place to find a used block. I've tried lots of places and I just thought I'd continue my research here.

Really trying hard to understand more about engines here, particularly these Honda's. Grandfather and father aren't around anymore so I've lost my help from them. Any advice? I know the best experience is hands on, but I'd like to educate myself further before pursuing this project.

Thanks,
-NosNox