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View Full Version : 1999 Civic - long cranks when sitting overnight. Lots of details.


Havokid
Jun 1, 2012, 11:43 PM
Started 2 years ago. Recently pulled from storage last month. Sitting in storage for 1 year.

Vehicle: 1999 Honda Civic DX Hatchback M/T, 121,000 miles, D16Y7 engine, modifications: 4-2-1 headers - 2.5" piping - short ram intake.

Scenario: NO CELs. It takes several long normal cranks (about 3-4 attempts, each attempt is 3 seconds cranks) to start in the morning or just starting for the first time that day. Happens whether it's hot or cold outside. Cranks sound normal and strong. Once the car starts, it runs fine. Idles fine at 1,500-1,700 rpms, drops down to 1,000 rpms at normal temperature. Drives fine, never stalls, never hesitates. After running for a few minutes, I can simply turn it off and restart it. No issue. Crank last 1-2 seconds, first try. If I let the car sit for more than 6 hours, issue returns.

Things I've tested and replaced:

Oil
Oil Filter
Gas (issue happens even with full tank)
Coolant
Coolant Sensor (original was faulty)
Spark Plugs (NGK)
Spark Plug Cables
Distributor Cap
Distributor Rotor
Ignition Coil
Main Relay
Fuel Filter (pressure drops to 0 overnight, when ignition is on, rises to 40 psi at the fuel filter)
Fuel Pump
Fuel Rail
Fuel Injectors
Fuel Pressure Regulator
Battery (also cleaned all 3 main ground cables and surfaces as well as applying new battery clamps)
Tested All Related Fuses

Applied Seafoam to my gas tank, brake booster, and oil. And replaced gas/oil after a week. Cleaned my throttle body (walls were black) and my intake air control valve. Tried spraying starter fluid into my short ram and turning the car over after sitting, no affect. Only things I have not changed and I think can be the culprit are the starter/solenoid, distributor, or ECU.

Any ideas?

TxGreaseMonkey
Jun 2, 2012, 04:28 AM
Replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) inside the distributor. Apply silicone heat transfer compound to the back of the new ICM.

Havokid
Jun 2, 2012, 09:11 AM
Before I cough up another dime to this motor. I've googled ICM issues and everyone seems to have the same problem. (not trying to question your knowledge, I just want to really pin point the culprit and know for sure since I'm on a tight budget). They seem to have their cars randomly die on them on the road. Mines never died whether I've been driving for 3 minutes or 3 hours. Nor when I'm in motion or at a stop. Thanks for the quick reply.