My 1998 Honda Civic will not start. The engine will crank but never turn over. I have checked fuses, Main relay and performed the k test on the ecm. A friend came over with a reader and received P1297(Electrical Load Detector (ELD) Circuit Low Input). I tried to follow the steps in the service manual(11-179). The manual wants me to start the vehicle and check for codes, start the vehicle and check for voltage on the ELD connector (4.5voltsvolts with headlights on) means the ELD needs to be replaced. The problem is I am unable to start the vehicle, would I still be looking for the same voltage... etc. Please someone help!

More information: The check engine light doesn't not stay on after 2 secs. I checked the MAP sensor and had the correct voltage. I can hear the clicks from the main relay and hear the fuel pump "turn on"

. Reset ECM (clear codes) with code reader.

. Ensure the ACG (ALT) (S) fuse, located in the under dash fuse box, is good.

. Substitute a known good ECM, if Code P1297 reappears.

. Replace the ELD, if the problem persists.

Give us a full history about the car not starting. You may have a garden variety distributor problem that prevents the engine from starting. Check for spark. If none, consider replace the Ignition Control Module and coil:

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

You may have a compound problem dealing with the distributor (ICM and coil) and the ELD. I would spend some money and replace the ICM and coil and see if you can get the car to run, especially since the ECM passed the K-Test. I don't think the P1297 should prevent the engine from starting.