So I finished my drive line swap in my 90 and after 60 miles of running the timing belt snaps. Ftmfl. I wanted to wait a year before replacing it to see if I was going to swap a 1.8 and now I'm at a bit of crossroads. I've got a low mileage (22k) 02 vvt head engine sitting in my garrage with a lot of bits and pieces like injectors, fuel rail, partial harness, sensors,etc. Its not feasible to install that engine in my car because of CA smog. This is daily. I'm on the fence as to whether I should:

-trade the 02 for a more smog friendly looking 94-97 engine plus cash, then possibly sell the 1.6 and risk being reprimanded by the man come smog or pullover

-just sell the 02, pocket the cash. Replace the belt and water pump on the 1.6 and live with 50tq reduced power band across the board post turbo for the wrest of the cars life- without upseting the law man.

Decisions.

 

Or, get a job in TX and mod the car until the cows come home.

 

Registering out of state is a mixed bag from what I've seen. Some friends have had no problems, but I've been in a friends car when he got busted for out of state tags. Its something to consider.

 

For just a nice daily the 1.6 is great!

 

I decided to repair the 1.6. It was within 5% when I did my last compression test and I don't want the extra hassle of the swap in CA.

I'm sure it will still be fun. That's the important part.