vvt head question
 

Ok so I don't know if I'm not searching the correct terms, phrases, words, etc. but I can't seem to find the answer to my question.

Can I use a 2001-2005 VVT head for a NON-VVT application by just replacing the cams?
For example, could I take a 2005 head and slap some '99 cams in it and go?

nope

Well I guess that's my answer and the "why" doesn't change anything, but does someone have a little more comprehensive answer than "nope"?

Yep.

intake cams
https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1388800681
https://www.miataturbo.net/attachmen...ine=1388800681
find waldo

I'm quite confused why you wouldnt just use a 99-00 head to achieve what you want. Its lighter, less complicated, better looking, can fit bigger cams with less work, etc.

Exhaust cam fits. Same exhaust cam from 99-05. Intake cam is completely different and not at all compatible in either direction.

Availability.

Thanks for a little more info guys. Now I know why everyone wants stupid money for a 99/00 head. Supply and demand.

There's that reason and there's:
1) too cheap to shell out for vvt control
2) too lazy to switch to vvt control
3) want to run serious cams

Because otherwise, the vvt head is better in every single way.

I'll take door number 3

Bust out the die grinder then.

So grind a cam that has the correct offset and don't use the VVT. I'm not sure why people here insist on propagating bad info like "VVT heads can't run serious cams" or "99-00 heads take bigger cams without work". It's all horseshit.

But even if you made that cam that fit the VVT head you still need the oil pipe going across the valve cover and and the solenoid to get oil to the first cam journal right? Or can you drill the journal and hit the oil passage that the non-vvt heads use?

I guess I shoulda said off the shelf.
Though looks like emilio is working on that