VVT "C" revision vs DCR VVT

[blackmica6]

So, I've been reading quite a lot on the VVT issue with this car, but I can't find a definite answer. Did the last revision "C" (L3K9-12-4X0C) VVT actually solve the VVT problem or does the pin cap still break off with time & does the hole where the pin engages get elongated (and therefore the VVT fails)?

Also, the DCR VVT seems to be the solution to this problem, but it is $350, which is too much for what seems to be a modified OEM VVT. Has anyone ever disassembled the DCR VVT? How is it modified? Can we modify an OEM VVT to be as good as the DCR one?

From what I understand, they've removed the button (cap), threaded in an allen head screw in its place, put a stronger spring between the pin and the screw and made the hole in the rotor where the pin engages a bit deeper. That's either hardly worth $350 or I am missing something completely.

What do you guys think?

[Jeff23spl]

the revised model seem to work for many. I don't think much second gen speed experienced failed vvt. The chain probably still get loose over time and mileage but the VVT doesn't seem to fail.

[blackmica6]

Really? Well, that's excellent.

I have a spare frankenstein VVT - made from B and C revision parts. I'll take it apart and see if I can copy DCR's design. I also have a brand new OEM VVT (C) which I'll use in my engine once head work is done.
About the chain though, I think they should've made it beefier, but hey...

Thanks for the answer. I'll take apart the franken VVT and study it. I'll post here if I make some progress modifying it.

[blackmica6]

So, I've made some progress with the VVT, it's almost complete. I'll hopefully complete it this weekend and I'll post pictures and a guide how to make your very own DCR-like VVT for the total price of an OEM one ($100-ish), and not the $350 that DCR charges.

EDIT: Upon further research I have found out that even the "C" revision OEM VVT (L3K9-12-4X0C) is known to break the pin cap and fly off inside the engine. Rarely, but it does happen with time. So either a DCR or a modded one is, in my opinion, necessary.