We took the old distributor off without marking anything, and then new distributor didn't want to go on the way that it came off. We nevertheless got it on but it still won't start. I called in a professional mechanic that checked our installation, and he said it was installed at least 180 degrees off because it was backfiring. He can't come back until mid week so we're still stuck with our improper installation.

I didn't search the forums before I asked my question... sorry... TXgreasemonkey you are a legend and I think I found most of your responses from other questions already.

Because of the offset key on the shaft, it's impossible to install a Honda distributor 180 degrees off. Loosen the three mounting bolts and try rotating the distributor counter-clockwise (CCW), which will advance the timing. You should be able to set the timing pretty close by ear--later, you can use a timing light. Ensure the new distributor is the correct one for your engine.

Distributor Replacement

At AskMeHelpDesk.com, over 50% of new aftermarket distributors for Hondas have not worked out of the box. Many of those that initially worked didn't last very long. Therefore, I only recommend genuine Honda distributor housings. It's fine to buy a Honda housing and install an aftermarket Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil, to keep the cost down. Three reasons account for the majority of Honda distributors needing replacement: orange dust, oil inside, or failed sensors.

1. Disconnect negative battery cable, after recording radio code.

2. Remove #2 Phillips head screw, securing 2-P and 8-P connector mount to the side of the distributor, using a precision screwdriver. Access is often improved if the air filter cover is removed first, using an 8mm nut driver. Separate 2-P and 8-P electrical connectors. The trick to separating these connectors is to squeeze the connector's mounting release first and remove from mount. Then, the connector will separate--do not force.

3. Mark distributor housing and bracket, for timing to be close later, using a scribe (or awl) and straight-edge.

4. Remove three hex-head machine screws, securing distributor cap to housing, using an 8mm nut driver.

5. Move distributor cap and wires off to the side.

6. Remove machine screw securing rotor to shaft, using #2 Phillips head screwdriver, and leak cover. It may be necessary to "hit" the starter once or twice, in order to rotate rotor for access to mounting screw.

7. Remove three 12mm bolts securing distributor housing to engine.

8. Remove old distributor, place on table, and remove coil, igniter, and cap seal.

9. Install old igniter, coil, leak cover, cap seal, and rotor in new distributor. Ensure female igniter terminals fit snugly--crimp with pliers, if necessary.

10. Coat O-ring with engine oil.

11. Install distributor, align timing marks on housing and bracket, and button things up.

12. Set idle speed to 700 rpm and use a timing light to set timing to spec.


Note: Due to the ingenious offset shaft, there's no way you can install the distributor incorrectly.

We forced the impossible by bolting it down anyway when it didn't fit. I guess we may have damaged something in the process. The distributor was taken off again and rotated so then it fit in without forcing it. It still won't start so I'm guessing we have to get another distributor. Is it possible that the timing is off and it won't start because of that?

Again, I would only try to install a genuine Honda distributor housing--all others are suspect, in my opinion. Over 50% of new aftermarket distributors for Hondas haven't worked at AMHD. That may be your situation. At a minimum, try exchanging your distributor for another, if it's under warranty. Hopefully, you didn't damage the camshaft.