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View Full Version : 93 Del Sol cranks but doesn't start. With a twist


CARSBIKESHONDASETC
Sep 25, 2007, 06:46 PM
Hello. Found lots of helpful info here, so joined to ask a specific question.

My 1993 Del Sol 1.6 Si Auto has 122K on it and always ran well. I washed it Sunday, moved it in the driveway, left it sit for 30 minutes, tried to move it again and it fired once and then died, never to restart. Engine will crank and crank, but no fire, even with starting fluid. Here is how far I have diagnosed:
1) Key on, main relay clicks twice, CEL is on, Fuel Pump sounds, then CEL and Fuel punp go off after 2 seconds.
2) Cracked return fuel line connection and confirmed fuel is present
3) Replace cap & rotor (needed it) but also confirmed the ignitor (I think) by hooking a 12V test lamp to both coil inputs. Got bright light at key on and pulsation when cranking.
4) Jumped OBD1 connector and CEL comes on and stays on. No flashing for code. I read this as a "0" = BAD ECU faliure.
That is where I am on it. I feel I am at a fork in the road... replace coil or replace ECU? Any advice?

Also, regarding ECU, mine is a 37820-P28-A51. Do I need to replace with the same part number, or is there some flexibility, such as using an A50 unit (which I believe is 1992). I don't believe I would use an A01 (MT).

Any help would be appreciated.

(Sorry about the all cap name... that was not thinking... )

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 26, 2007, 04:52 AM
. Check all under-dash and under-hood fuses with a test light or multimeter. Here's how:

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

. Perform all tests outlined in Sections A and B below, some of which you have already done:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563.html

Particularly, perform the K-Test on the ECM and check for spark. If it fails the K-Test, get the exact ECM (same part no.) you currently have .

If everything above checks out okay, focus on the distributor. Personally, I would replace the Ignition Control Module and coil, since you have over 120,000 miles on the car and it's over 10 years old. Bench testing these problematic items is of questionable utility. If you replace these two items and the problem persists, the likely cause is a bad distributor. The CKP, TDC, and CYL sensors go bad and they are not serviceable. I recommend buying a new Honda housing, since many on this site have had problems with new aftermarket distributors.