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So my VTC has been rattling at cold starts again. I had it replaced under warranty many years ago but the same rattle reappeared recently. I saw there was a quick fix with the spring start guys by replacing the spring inside. I did everything and when putting the valve cover back on, I accidentally stripped one of the bolts off. This bolt is attached to one of the camshaft holders (not sure of technical term).
I grabbed one from my local Honda dealer (90011-PNA-003) and replaced it. I thought I had it torqued down to 16ft lbs but it may have been a bit looser. Once I put everything back together, I took it for a quick test drive just 1/4 mile down the road and back, I didn't go above 3k rpm. When I came back I noticed a knocking sound. Now, no matter how many times I torque that bolt down to 16ft lbs it continues making this noise.
Is this engine done?
Don't mind the smoke in the video. I didn't tighten the valve cover bolts for the purposes of this video.