[badtastehonda]

Occasionally won't start and sets trouble code 4. Turn ignition switch off and it starts next time as if the main relay was bad. I haven't been able to catch it do this (my daughter drives it) as I would leave ignition switch on and start trouble-shooting it. Engine dies intermittently and sets codes 4, 8, and 15. For a short time it set code 20 but does not any longer. Engine dying is becoming more frequent - almost daily. Each time engine dies, car is either coming to a stop or already at complete stop. Engine does not skip, it simply goes dead as if the fuel or fire no longer exists. I have replaced the plugs, wires, igniter (From Honda factory), and ignition coil (after market). After that, I replaced entire distributor assembly with aftermarket. I replaced main relay, ignition switch, and the computer. Timing belt also replaced as it was time. I have added a ground wire from shock tower to valve cover in addition to factory ground wire. I have checked the distributer wiring harness connection points and the electrical plugs at the passenger shock tower and verified the pins are stationairy and clean. I even gave them a little twist to insure a tighter connection. I used to be a nice guy. Now I'm thinking of killing Honda engineers :)

[TxGreaseMonkey]

I believe your problem is related to buying an aftermarket distributor housing, instead of genuine Honda. We have had many problems with new aftermarket Honda distributors--most have not worked.

Your codes relate to internal distributor sensor failure (Crankshaft Position Sensor and Top Dead Center Sensor). These sensors are not serviceable. Code 15 is likely saying the new ignitor is bad, which I doubt. Ensure that you coated the back of the new Honda ignitor with a thin, even coat of silicone heat transfer grease. If you didn't, it's possible it has already failed; otherwise, it's probably fine. I would replace the housing with one from Honda and reuse your current ignitor and coil. Here's how to replace the distributor yourself:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post288473

Yes, I also believe Hondas are over-rated and most American cars are under-rated--it's a perception issue.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Keep me posted.

[badtastehonda]

I suspected the aftermarket, but hesitated since the codes were the same as the original distributer. The sensor wire insulation was overheated, dried, and broke off on the original. I think you're right about getting the distributor housing containing the tdc, crank sensors, & wiring from Honda. I just ordered new distributor housing, coil, and cap from Majestic Honda. I'll let you know the outcome. Even if it doesn't fix it I'll definitely know it's not the distributer this time. Thanks for the quick reply txgreasemonkey!

[TxGreaseMonkey]

You've done a lot of good things to the car for your daughter. I bet it runs like a "top," when you install the new distributor housing.

[badtastehonda]

Occasionally won't start and sets trouble code 4. Turn ignition switch off and it starts next time as if the main relay was bad. I haven't been able to catch it do this (my daughter drives it) as I would leave ignition switch on and start trouble-shooting it. Engine dies intermittently and sets codes 4, 8, and 15. For a short time it set code 20 but does not any longer. Engine dying is becoming more frequent - almost daily. Each time engine dies, car is either coming to a stop or already at complete stop. Engine does not skip, it simply goes dead as if the fuel or fire no longer exists. I have replaced the plugs, wires, igniter (From Honda factory), and ignition coil (after market). After that, I replaced entire distributor assembly with aftermarket. I replaced main relay, ignition switch, and the computer. Timing belt also replaced as it was time. I have added a ground wire from shock tower to valve cover in addition to factory ground wire. I have checked the distributer wiring harness connection points and the electrical plugs at the passenger shock tower and verified the pins are stationairy and clean. I even gave them a little twist to insure a tighter connection. I used to be a nice guy. Now I'm thinking of killing Honda engineers :)

THe new distributer fixed the problem. It's been about 4 months now and not a single issue. Sorry so long in posting back - computer hard drive failed and I lost link to this site - finally found it and got logged back in. Thanks txgreasemonkey!

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Thanks for the update. Your experience will now help others.