So heres the story, i recently finished installing k20 pistons into my f23 block, im running an f22a head with a6 cam and a4 headers. i replaced the water pump, timing belt, tensioner, and gaskets. i have h23 ARP studs holding everything together. so after breaking in the new rings, not even 200 miles after completing the build, my engine seized up. i managed to turn it by hand but before it seized i had a loud noise from the rocker assembly, like something was rattling around violently in the valve cover. i also have white smoke coming from my intake manifold and exhaust manifold, the engine wont even start now. My timing is dead on, and i replaced my oil pressure switch to no avail. i'm thinking its my oil pump but if i could get some second opinions from the veteran members i would much appreciate it.

 

So the engine is locked up.

Have you pulled the vc and inspected the cam and valves/sprimgs?

 

Vc? i checked all the valves and removed the cam the first time it locked up cause i figured it threw a valve. But they're all fine, it starts up and can run for a bit, but then locks up after making metal on metal noises from the head.

 

Is oil getting to valve train. Improperly installed head gasket perhaps.

Also possible the pistons are incompatible w/ head (inadequate clearance).

good luck

 

oil was getting to the head before this happened, and i had even compressio across all 4 cylinders during the initial engine running. head gasket was oem honda for the f23 and it had "up" marked on it so idk how that could have gone wrong. thanks

 

bummp

 

Pull valve cover and inspect valve train for correct operation. Align timing marsk on camshaft and crankshaft to check engine valve timing is correct.

If no oil pressure, then likely head or head gasket was not installed correctly. Oil pumps are very simple devices and unlikely to fail. Something is preventing oil pressure from building if there is no oil pressure. Another possibility is blocked oil pump inlet screen due to debris (coked oil) in oil pan.

No way to fix this by discussion. It will require opening engine to inspect.

good luck