Thought I run a Integra with different engine (B20), lots of advice for Honda longevity is similar.
I agree with most of what ViniVan says above, except we only use OEM Honda parts (especially the Honda MLS head gasket) unless the particular part in NLA.
The ARP stud kit is definitely the way to go. IIRC, the OEM Honda torque-to-yield head bolts are only torqued to something like 90 ft-lbs, where as the ARP studs are like 160 ft-lbs. That helps keep that head gasket sealed nice and tight!
How do you keep from blowing the HG in the first place? Don't allow the engine to overheat...duh! Get a bigger radiator and be sure it's flushed and the system is clean. Shifting before the the red line is VERY GOOD ADVICE! Our B20 revs to 7K, but we shift around 6,250 to help it live a long and happy life. Best way to ensure this is to forget the tach and get a shift light. Our shift light is brighter than the sun, so none of our drivers can miss it!
I'm personally not really a fan of electronic gauges unless a mechanical version is not practical/cost effective. With no sender to go bad, I trust our mechanical oil pressure and water temperature gauges over the electronic version. That said, pretty much any aftermarket gauge is better than the stock "warm and fuzzy" gauge.
We also run Rotella T6 5W-40, and change it every race. We run a large oil cooler with a V8 Mustang-sized remote mount oil filter, which increases our oil capacity from 4 quarts to 6. We also run the level 1/2 quart over just to be safe.
Captain
Team Super Westerfield Bros.
'93 Acura Integra - No VTEC Yo!