VTEC Rocker Arm Test

2002 Honda Civic SiSECTION VTEC Rocker Arm Test
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Special Tools Required 

  • Air pressure regulator 07AAJ-PNAA100
  • Air stopper 07LAJ-PR3020B
  1. Remove the resonator (see step 5 on Cylinder Head Removal  ).
  2. Remove the ignition coil cover, then remove the four ignition coils (see IGNITION COIL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
  3. Remove the throttle cable clamps and harness holder from the cylinder head cover (see step 9 on Timing Belt Removal  ).
  4. Remove the cylinder head cover (see step 10 on Timing Belt Removal  ).
  5. Set the No. 1 piston at Top Dead Center (TDC) (see step 5 on Valve Clearance Adjustment  ).
  6. Verify that the intake secondary rocker arm (A) moves independently of the intake primary rocker arm (B).
    • If the intake secondary rocker arm does not move, remove the primary and secondary rocker arms as an assembly and check that the pistons in the secondary and primary rocker arms move smoothly. If any rocker arm needs replacing, replace the primary and secondary rocker arms as an assembly, and retest.
    • If the intake secondary rocker arm moves freely, go to step 7.
    Fig 1: Verifying Intake Secondary Rocker Arms
    G01401505Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Repeat step 6 on the remaining intake secondary rocker arms with each piston at TDC. When all the secondary rocker arms pass the test, go to step 8.
  8. Check that the air pressure on the shop air compressor gauge indicates over 400 kPa (4 kgf/cm2 , 57 psi).
  9. Inspect the valve clearance (see Valve Clearance Adjustment  ).
  10. Cover the timing belt with a shop towel to protect the belt.
  11. Plug the relief hole with the air stopper.
    Fig 2: Plugging Relief Hole With Air Stopper
    G01401506Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  12. Remove the sealing bolt (A) from the inspection hole (B), and connect an air pressure regulator with a 0 - 100 psi gauge (C).
    Fig 3: Locating Sealing Bolt With Torque Specifications
    G01401507Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  13. Loosen the valve on the regulator, and apply the specified air pressure.
    1. Specified Air Pressure:  250 kPa (2.5 kgf/cm2 ,36 psi)
    NOTE: If the synchronizing piston does not move after applying air pressure, move the primary or secondary rocker arm up and down manually by rotating the crankshaft counterclockwise.
  14. Move the intake secondary rocker arm (A) for the No. 1 cylinder. The primary rocker arm (B) and secondary rocker arm should move together.
    • If the intake primary rocker arm does not move, remove the primary and secondary rocker arms as an assembly and check that the pistons in the secondary and primary rocker arms move smoothly. If any rocker arm needs replacing, replace the primary and secondary rocker arms as an assembly, and retest.
    Fig 4: Moving Intake Secondary Rocker Arm For No. 1 Cylinder
    G01401508Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  15. Remove the special tools.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.