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View Full Version : I have a 1997 civic ex. Distributer issue


cwaldo64
Jul 22, 2010, 11:46 AM
I swapped out my motor and now that it is back in the car I have no spark. I tried replacing the distributor, I checked all the fuses, I replaced the crank position censor and I still have no spark. The only thing I can think of otherwise would be the main relay. I cannot find it and am growing weary working on this car. Can someone help?

TxGreaseMonkey
Jul 22, 2010, 12:49 PM
Is the new engine identical to the old engine?

cwaldo64
Jul 22, 2010, 09:01 PM
Yes, it was a short block swap.

TxGreaseMonkey
Jul 23, 2010, 06:21 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 distributor related. Keep in mind that over 50% of even new aftermarket distributors for Hondas haven't worked at AMHD. Consider replacing the Ignition Control Module and coil, if you have a genuine Honda housing:

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

cwaldo64
Jul 23, 2010, 09:01 AM
I picked up an entire distributor from a salvage yard and had the same results. Should I try another distributor. Also, the CEL comes on and flashes off only to come back on and stay constant.

TxGreaseMonkey
Jul 23, 2010, 09:45 AM
That means there may be a problem with the ECM. Clean the main ECM ground, likely located on the thermostat housing, and then perform the K-Test on the ECM:

The K-Test: Remove the MAP Sensor connector and turn the ignition switch to ON (Position II). Using a multimeter, check for 5 volts going between the MAP Sensor connector's reference wire (+) and ground. As you look at the connector, this is the socket on the right. Really press the black test lead into a cleaned main ECM ground on the thermostat housing. If the voltage is low, it’s probably indicating ECM failure. Most failed ECMs will record a fraction of a volt. To me, the K-Test is simple, elegant, and accurate.

The CEL staying on is caused by the ACG (S) (ALT) in the under dash fuse box, main relay, ECM, or ignition switch being bad. Usually, it's the fuse or ECM.

cwaldo64
Jul 23, 2010, 10:55 AM
When you refer to the ECM, is that the same as the ECU? Also, I am not sure where that is. There is nothing grounding anywhere near my thermostat housing, where else could it be located?

TxGreaseMonkey
Jul 23, 2010, 10:58 AM
ECM = ECU.

Frequently, there is a 3-wire brass connector, fastened to the thermostat housing with a 10 mm bolt.

revans3
Jul 23, 2010, 11:09 AM
I swapped out my motor and now that it is back in the car I have no spark. I tried replacing the distributor, i checked all the fuses, i replaced the crank position censor and i still have no spark. The only thing i can think of otherwise would be the main relay. I cannot find it and am growing weary working on this car. can someone help??

Could be the ignitian coil. Check the resistance of the coil via a Haynes
Manual.

revans3

cwaldo64
Jul 27, 2010, 06:37 PM
I checked the ECU and it reads 5 volts. I noticed that I have a air density meter that goes in the intake that is damaged. I am going to order that and see if that helps anything. Do you have anymore ideas?

cwaldo64
Jul 27, 2010, 06:38 PM
Oh, I also checked my main relay and all the fuses again and all of them are in working order

TxGreaseMonkey
Jul 27, 2010, 06:45 PM
Did you check the ignition switch for wear, pitting, or melting? Did you ever locate the main ECM ground? That could be crucial.