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TxGreaseMonkey · Oct 31, 2010, 08:53 AM

Yes, the ICM and coil are located inside the distributor--just remove the cap, rotor, and leak cover, after disconnecting the negative battery cable. Because the spark is weak, this is likely the solution to your problem. It takes about 45 minutes to do the job. This should restore "like new" reliability and performance.

JAP97civic · Oct 31, 2010, 09:57 AM

That sounds like what needs to be checked first. Thank you for that information and all of your ideas. I didn't realize you could restore the "like new" performance in the distributor.

TxGreaseMonkey · Oct 31, 2010, 10:01 AM

ICMs and coils are very problematic on Hondas. I think you just have a standard "garden variety" ICM and coil problem.

Also, only use the same NGK spark plugs that came with the car. ICMs and coils can fail because the distributor cap and coil are old and worn, allowing the high secondary voltage to find the easiest path to ground through the ICM and coil. The system starts to destroy itself. It's best to replace the distributor cap, rotor, and spark plug wires every 60,000 miles.

Hope this helps.

JAP97civic · Oct 31, 2010, 10:38 AM

We did just replace the spark plugs and wires during this trial and error. We just haven't tried anything with the distributor yet, but it definitely is something we need to check. If what you said earlier as far as restoring the distributor to "like new performance" starts the car, would you recommend replacing the distributor cap and rotor or the distributor all together? Thank you though again for all the ideas.. surely one will help!

TxGreaseMonkey · Oct 31, 2010, 11:26 AM

Yes, if changing the ICM and coil does the trick, as I think it will, I would replace the distributor cap and rotor. If the engine still does not start, the next step is to install the new ICM and rotor, that you just bought, in a genuine Honda distributor housing. Over 50% of new aftermarket distributors have not worked at AMHD. Therefore, I only recommend Honda. It's not uncommon for the internal distributor sensors (CKP, TDC, and CYP) to get damaged, which are not serviceable.

JAP97civic · Nov 5, 2010, 04:28 PM

I don't know if this will make a difference in the advice you have given me, but we have a 97 civic Hatch. On top of everything I mentioned before we've replaced the grounds as well. We haven't tried you suggestion on the distributor yet but are thinking of replacing it. Would you know if our car would have a security system that we wouldn't be aware of. Since like Clive the car ran perfect until it was hit. We don't know where to look for the immobilizer switch and the dash does not have any indication of a security system because the gauge cluster has been replaced. We tried calling Honda and of course would not give any advice without looking at the car.. which is an inconvience with the towing and all. I'm not finding anything online about an inertia /cutoff switch being installed on our year and model car. I'd appreciate any feedback you have.