Kelford camshafts, Honda B16A/B18C VTEC (1989-2001)

Kelford camshafts, Honda B16A/B18C VTEC

Kelford is a New Zealand camshaft manufacturer with roots in Christchurch dating back to 1968. Its profiles range from upgrades for street-driven cars to fully built race engines. Choose the cam around the rest of the engine and its intended use, rather than simply picking the longest duration.

This selection is for the Honda B16A/B18C VTEC engine. Profile differences, spring recommendations and required modifications are detailed below.

Technical specifications – available profiles for this engine

Profile 176-B

Stage 1 for a naturally aspirated B16A/B18C. The VTEC profile works at approximately 5,500–9,500 rpm, adding mid-range and top-end power compared with factory Type R cams. Idle and street manners remain mild below VTEC. Requires a tunable ECU and intake and exhaust upgrades, although the stock intake manifold can be retained. Upgraded springs are required, KVS18-K is recommended.

Manufacturer profile information

Profile 176-C

For a naturally aspirated B16A/B18C circuit engine with high compression, a ported head and suitable intake and exhaust upgrades. The larger low-speed lobes add mid-range pull. VTEC crossover is around 6,000 rpm, with power extending to approximately 10,000 rpm depending on the engine. A plenum manifold produces a rougher idle. Requires upgraded springs, KVS18-K is recommended.

Manufacturer profile information

Profile 176-R1

For an all-motor B16A/B18C drag engine making approximately 250–300+ hp. Suitable for larger-bore and longer-stroke engines using race fuel, ethanol blends or methanol. The head requires modification to prevent valve-to-valve contact. Recommended spring and retainer kit: KVS18-K.

Manufacturer profile information

Profile 176-T

Stage 2 for a turbocharged B16A/B18C making approximately 600–1,000 hp with a 54–68 mm turbo. Suitable for circuit racing, roll racing and E85. VTEC crossover is around 5,000 rpm, with power extending to approximately 10,000 rpm depending on the engine. Idle and drivability remain manageable below VTEC. Requires a spring upgrade such as KVS18-K. Low-speed intake lobes: 250° / 7.0 mm and 254° / 8.6 mm, exhaust: 250° / 7.0 mm.

Manufacturer profile information

Profile 176-T2

A Pro Import drag profile for approximately 1,200–1,600 hp with a 72 mm or larger turbo, particularly on alcohol fuels. With KVS18-K springs, the manufacturer specifies operation above 50 psi and at 10,500 rpm. Low-speed intake lobe: 270° / 11.0 mm, exhaust: 262° / 10.0 mm.

Manufacturer profile information

Profile 176-TS

A street turbo profile for approximately 350–600 hp and a 48–58 mm turbo. Low- and high-speed lobe timing is designed for turbo use and a broader powerband. The VTEC range is approximately 5,000–9,500 rpm, with mild idle below crossover. Requires upgraded springs, KVS18-K is recommended.

Manufacturer profile information

Checking heights are shown with the duration figures. Net lift is the net valve movement specified by the manufacturer, while cam lift is listed separately. IVO/IVC denote intake valve opening/closing and EVO/EVC exhaust valve opening/closing. BTDC/ATDC mean before/after top dead centre, and BBDC/ABDC before/after bottom dead centre.

Installation and profile selection

Confirm the exact engine version, valvetrain design and the modifications required by the profile. Check cam timing and valve-to-piston clearance during installation. Springs, lifters and other supporting parts mentioned with a profile are not included unless the profile explicitly states that they come with the kit.

Examples of related vehicle applications

• Honda Civic EF/EG/EK VTi and SiR, B16A (1989–2000)
• Honda CR-X EF8 SiR, B16A (1989–1991)
• Honda CR-X del Sol EG2 VTi/SiR, B16A (1992–1998)
• Honda Integra DA6/DA8 SiR, B16A (1989–1993)
• Honda Integra DC2/DB8 SiR and Type R, B18C (1993–2001)
• Acura Integra GS-R / Type R, B18C1/B18C5 (1994–2001)

The list covers versions with the specified engines only. Exact fitment and required modifications depend on the selected profile, cylinder head, lifters and timing system.

Kelford Cams