[jimmyjam9]

My 1992 Honda VX just stopped running while going down the road! I believe the fuel pump is working, since I think I smell gas coming from the exhaust. I replaced the distributor cap and rotor. I'm thinking it's probably the ECM. It does have 210,000 miles with 80,000 on second engine. The engine cranks, I thought it was a unique problem since it quit while I was driving.
A quick question are the ECM and the ECU one and the same?
Thanks so much, jimmyjam9

[TxGreaseMonkey]

ECM=ECU.

Perform the K-Test on your ECM:

K-Test: Remove the MAP Sensor connector and turn the ignition switch to ON (not start). 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. K-Test is simple, elegant, and accurate.

Does the Check Engine Light come on and go off, after two seconds, when the ignition key is turned to ON (Position II)? During this two second interval, do you hear the fuel pump in the gas tank run?

[jimmyjam9]

Thanks so much for the response txgreasemonkey I was able to determine that the fuel pump is a whirring. Checking the mapping sensor is on hold right now. ( It's about -5 degrees below zero here). Quick question, could I remove the ECM and have it checked for worthyness if I take it out and take it to a shop?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Not likely. Most shops wouldn't know what to do. Plus, shops that do ECM diagnostics charge a fortune.

Does the Check Engine Light come on and go out after 2 seconds, when the ignition key is turned to ON (Position II)? If it does, then the problem is not likely with the ECM.

You may want to remove and test/replace the Ignition Control Module and coil. AutoZone can test ICMs and coils for free. Here's how to do it:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post265896

Ensure the fuel filter has been replaced in the last 60,000 miles or 4 years.

[jimmyjam9]

I'm sorry txgreasemonkey for taking so long to get back. I did what you said and removed the ICM and coil. I took them down to AutoZone and had them checked. The ICM checked out bad (I was thrilled to death about this news because I thought for sure it was the big dollar ECU). He checked the coil and said it was testing out just barely OK. I suggested we just get new ICM and coil. He ended up talking me out of the coil saying it should still be good. Well I waded out to the car, yes by this time the one foot of snow was melting, the car stood in about 6" if water. I replaced the ICM and might have been guilty of saying some rather spicy language. (I stripped a screw hole) Long story short the car didn't start, so I went and bought the coil. With this in the car it started and I've been doing the happy, happy, joy,joy dance ever since. I want to thank you for all your help. A quick insight, I've had 3 cars stop on me while I was driving the vehicle and they all seem to fall back on a module of some form going out, hmmmm. Once again thanks for all the advice and God Bless. David Peters

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Good job! Glad I could help.