Honda Repair: Valve Train Adjustment, platinum plugs, service interval

Question
Rick,

2001 Honda Civic EX with VTEC, 5 spd 55K.  I bought used with no service records.

Surging, rough running when cold.  Seems to improve on warm-up.  Still seem to notice surging about 3K rpm at cruise

Taken to independent service shop who scoped it, check fuel deliver and dyno test.  Recommended new plugs and valve adj.  Found two "tight" intake valves and evidence of microcracks around spark plug electrodes. $390.  Definately runs better on cold start, still notice surging above 3K.  Performance much better after complete warm up.

Is the surging I feel the change in timing from VTEC?
I thought the valves did not typically need adj in this model?
Microcracks in stock Plugs?

If it did not run better I would say I got ripped off.  Any feedback or questions I should follow up on?  

Answer
Hey Chuck, Those cars have platinum plugs from the factory and don't require replacement until 110000 miles/176000kms. There is no specified service interval for a valve adjustment but recommended at the same as spark plug replacement or to be adjusted if noisy. As far as the surging I think the EGR valve might be hanging up. The dealer should be able to tell you when monitoring the scan tool data. You shouldn't feel any surging when VTEC engages and it engages higher than 3000 RPM. Let me know how you make out. RICK