Help: Exhaust valve change .. problems!!
 

Had a problem with my car about a week ago, engine light came on flashing on and off so I took it into the mechanic immediately (noticed the engine was also shaking at idle, but when we pulled on the throttle it stopped shaking...) After a while they determined it was due to a hole in one of my exhaust valves.

Everything below happened within the last day.

They ended up removing, machining and reinstalling the cylinder (with head gasket set/oil/antifreeze change)

Engine light was gone and all when I went to pick it up, and after driving it for about 2-3 kms when my engine typically warms down, I noticed the RPM at idle was 1.5k (normal idle before the whole incident was 800-900 RPM)... I thought strange...

After another 30 km the light came on again.. this time the check engine light wasn't flashing, it was just a flat light that stays on. I already dropped $1.4k trying to figure out the problem and I'm not happy with this outcome. I notice now that my car doesn't have much power if I'm in gear with RPM below 2000 (which it usually does)...

Anyone have any idea what could be wrong?? Did they install the valve incorrectly?? Any ideas would be helpful.

A side note:
- All my other valves and cylinders are in perfect condition (as per mechanic)
- Routine fluid changes have been done almost religiously on this car
- 99 civic SiR with 150,000 kms total

First thing I'd do is take it back to the shop and say "WTF???"

Sounds like it might be a vacuum leak, possibly a hose off or just in the wrong place - not difficult to overlook in a rebuild like this.

I hope for your sake it is not a cash transaction and you have everything documented.

Since it is a 99 it has OBD2 and you should be able to pull some live data ie pressure etc (which should give you some inkling whether it is a vacuum leak or something loose etc).. what are some of the readings? Or could be a simple screw up during assembly eg wiring, gasket. Find someone with a OBD Scanner and ask him / her to go for a ride along with you.

You can't tell whether the valve is installed correctly or not just by driving. You need a leak down test. Does the coolant look clear or milky?

If you are not mechanically inclined, just take it back to the shop.

Will be taking it back first thing monday... i did happen to do a cash deal though. FML. But he does appear to be a honest guy working there. Will be crossing my fingers. Thanks for the responses.

Try to minimize driving your car until Monday then. I suspecting there is some misfiring and you don't want the extra fuel and gunk, coat your catalytic convertor or O2 sensors!

Yeah.. it does appear to be mis-firing still... I'll limit the driving as much as possible. Thanks

edit: was just a loose hose that they had to re-tighten! Free repair woot..!