Wierd Vtec

**[[d a n n y]]** · 03-10-2006 05:32 PM

Got a problem here..
vtec's been acting wierd it cuts out and engages some time doesnt engage at all, some times it's on full song..
now the funny thing is when it doesnt engage, engine light comes on and it throws the error code 21 Vtec soloniod spool valve
so far i have checked and cleaned the soloniod. cleaned the pressure switch still no luck what do u think it is ?
should i replace the whole solonoid??
any input would be appreciated

**JasonGilholme** · 03-10-2006 05:45 PM

Hows your oil lookin??

I'm not sure but i think its a mechanical thing, not electrical. Probly wrong tho. :P

**todaek9** · 03-10-2006 06:00 PM

sound like solonoid...Solonoid is a wear and tare thing..so yea..but try using a test pen to see any current going thru..

**ECU-MAN** · 03-10-2006 06:03 PM

whats your oil pressure like

**[[d a n n y]]** · 03-10-2006 06:04 PM

dont have a guage mate..
should i get 1 and test it??

**ECU-MAN** · 03-10-2006 09:26 PM

yeah see if you can borrow one.

take the oil presssure from the back of the block where the oil press switch is.

do a test at idle, 3000 rpm, and 5000 rpm. in N

the needle of the oil pressure guage should not pulsate to much

**CRXer** · 03-10-2006 09:38 PM

I didnt think the ecu could register an oil pressure prob through monitoring the solenoid? I could be wrong

Have you got any mods like vafc,piggyback or had them previously?

Is it a engine swap or stock?

**destrukshn** · 03-10-2006 09:43 PM

it's a swap if i remember correctly.

**CRXer** · 03-10-2006 09:56 PM

If a swap,def check joints in solenoid wire for poor connections,sounds like an intermittent connection somewhere.

I got the same prob,my harness previously had a vafc & after it was taken out they used a shitty bullet connector to rejoin the wire.
Now everytime the gf braces herself in "certain situations"

off the fire wall with her feet,this connector gets pulled apart,hence no vtec.
If only i wasnt so lazy to simply join one wire together properly........

If all good go back to the oil pressure test.

**bennjamin** · 03-10-2006 09:59 PM

knowing the craftsmanship of this "swap" - there is alot of margin for error

Re check all the wires as said Danny son ! Check ur oil pick up for crud in it. (take off oil pan and clean it) Oil pump might be on the way out too ?
Time for valve lash adjust ?