A system and method for providing a variable compression ratio internal combustion engine is disclosed. The system can include a plurality of hollow head bolts for coupling the cylinder head and block of an internal combustion engine. The system can also include a plurality of control bolts disposed through the hollow head bolts to enable vertical movement of the engine components (i.e., in the y-axis), while reducing, or eliminating, unwanted movement and stresses in other directions. A number of mechanisms can be used to move the cylinder head/block assembly, including a rack and pinion, a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, and a gear drive. The compression ratio can be varied continuously during use and can be included in an overall engine management system.