[spring-start.com]

I've already had the actuator replaced by a shop, but will keep his kit in mind if the noise returns. It'd be nice to hear some feedback from someone who's actually used his kit.

There is a 5 star review from a Mechanical Engineer who fixed his 2015 CRV with the 5A2 VTC Actuator, which is the new R44 design. There is a longer spring with a smaller diameter in those, same as the R5A and the upgraded R44. The engineer also replaced his timing chain tensioner and his cold start rattle is fixed using an OEM style replacement spring.
His VTEC is engaging properly as well because the spring force on the spring he used is similar to OEM design.

 

[spring-start.com]

I came across this thread while looking for something completely unrelated, BUT have had this happen a few times now. A couple concerns come to mind.
1) oil weight, I don't use 0-anything oil in any vehicles. I believe the ONLY reason manufacturers went to this is for less internal power loss for better mileage. I use 5-20 oil. Yes, my oil was low from lack of attention on my part. I'll, also, be changing the pcv valve I came across on here as a cause for oil consumption, which has been slowly increasing.
2) IF replacing the cam plate bolts, use grade 8. My concern about Deanno's stainless bolts, is that they are actually rather soft, about the same as a grade 5, and could shear. I don't think the load on the bolts is that great, but I never replace any fastener with one having a lower strength rating. In fact, if you have the correct torx tip to remove the factory fasteners, why replace them ?
I'd like to thank all the people who have posted on this site about similar issues to what my car is now starting to experience, with 87k on the clock. With all the knowledge on here, I hope to keep it going dependably, if I keep it. I would still like to be able to tow a 2,000k trailer, which I can't with this transmission.

Totally agree. Remove the VTC cover bolts with the proper torx security bit, replace the spring and re-install your cover with the 6 mm OEM bolts designed for your VTC Actuator. Make sure you have a quality S2 torx security bit that won't strip your bolts - the newer design VTC bolts (new R44, 5A2 and R5A VTC Gears) have a shallow recess so are easy to strip otherwise.

 

[spring-start.com]

I did some research on alternate suppliers for this spring and found the following at McMaster Carr in the U.S

A Pack of 6 #1986K61 is $3.79

View attachment 159331

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com

Ph. 330-995-5500


Rick

There are proper OEM style Honda VTC Gear spring replacement kits available with springs that have been designed and tested by Mechanical Engineers