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View Full Version : 94 civic dx won't start - no spark help


jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 07:26 AM
I have replaced the dist with a rebuilt unit & have an ecm from a junkyard which they swear is good but still no spark

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 07:51 AM
If the CEL comes on and goes off after 2 seconds, when the ignition switch is turned to ON (Position II), then the problem is with the distributor. I would replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-4.html#post265896

If the problem persists, replace the distributor housing with a genuine Honda distributor housing and install the new ICM and coil.

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 08:04 AM
Yes the CEL comes on & goes out in 2 sec. I have replaced the dist. & ecm. Are there any other suggestions

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 08:07 AM
The distributor is bad, presuming the fuses and ignition switch are good. Over 50% of all new aftermarket distributors don't work in Hondas--of those that do, many fail prematurely. The percentage failure on rebuilts is even higher.

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 08:09 AM
If the CEL comes on and goes off after 2 seconds, when the ignition switch is turned to ON (Position II), then the problem is with the distributor. I would replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-4.html#post265896

If the problem persists, replace the distributor housing with a genuine Honda distributor housing and install the new ICM and coil.

I have replaced the dist. & ECM . The light comes on & goes out in 2sec. Any other suggestions?

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 08:16 AM
Return the rebuilt distributor for replacement.

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 08:17 AM
I have pulled & checked each fuse under dash & hood - all are good . Is there one fuse in particular that would make this condition? Also this not starting didn't happen overnight. About 4 times before this the car would'nt start. But after awhile it did. Once it even died while driving- let it set 30min. & it started back up, but now there is no spark

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 08:25 AM
. Check all under dash and under hood fuses with a test light or multimeter:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-3.html#post252145

You need to check for "power through the fuse." Be very thorough, since it will save a lot of time and money.

. Described symptoms sound like "classic" ICM and/or coil failure. Heat takes its toll.

Have you installed a new coil?

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 08:30 AM
If the CEL comes on and goes off after 2 seconds, when the ignition switch is turned to ON (Position II), then the problem is with the distributor. I would replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-4.html#post265896

If the problem persists, replace the distributor housing with a genuine Honda distributor housing and install the new ICM and coil.

Thank you for your help. I am going under the hood again. I will get back with you later on my progress thanks again

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 08:38 AM
Great.

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 12:17 PM
I really want to thank you for your persistence about the dist. as soon as I changed it the car started. Thank you so much!

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 12:18 PM
Did you install another remanufactured distributor?

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 12:23 PM
Yes it is another reman. Hope it lasts awhile, new ones are as much as the car is worth

TxGreaseMonkey
Dec 15, 2009, 12:31 PM
I agree. I'm glad it got you back on the road. Good job.

jimbo3515
Dec 15, 2009, 12:32 PM
yes it is another reman. hope it lasts awhile, new ones are as much as the car is worth

Thank you