dizzi

I had a cooling system problem about two weeks ago, and in [possibly] solving the problem, i created another one. I realized the thermostat was no longer opening up so i replaced it. While replacing the thermostat, i had to unhook the spark plug wire boots from the distributor so i could reach the thermostat housing. After changing the thermostat i put the thermostat housing back (ground wire also), and reconnected the spark plug wires. At first i accidentally had the wires in the wrong firing order so i thought that was initially why my car wouldn't start. After reconnecting them in the right order i couldn't get the 2nd one onto the distributor as it was bent up. So i went on and bought new wires altogether.... with the new wires now in the right order (at least i believe so) the car still does not come on. Before replacing the thermostat and spark wires the car came on with no problem... so what am i doing wrong here?

grumblemarc

iTrader: (4)

Double check that ground. That's where I'd start.

HondaPartsHero

That and make sure they are in the right order

dizzi

Picture of my engine from distributor side

dizzi

triple checked the ground wire and spark plug wire order.... im not sure whats the problem as i didnt touch anything else.

Swap'DShuttle

If thats all that you did then the only thing it could be is that ground to the thermostat housing. Either something magically took a poop at the same time, or you touched something else important.

Car does not turn over? Cel light/fuel pump (car in general) does not light up/ turn on when in ON position? Or car does not start when engine is turning over?

(Post 420 bro! Ohhhhhhhhhh!)

dizzi

Yea, hoping that something didnt somehow give out while i changed the thermostat. would seem strange. im certain i didnt touch anything else, only thing i removed to get to the thermostat was the lower radiator hose, the spark wires and the ground wire. all of which i reconnected and triple checked. The engine doesnt really seem to turn over. im no mechanic but the engine doesnt sound like one that is turning over yet not getting fuel or anything. more like its trying to turn over then starts coughing lol.

angrysmileyface

Possibly a toasted coil or ICM. I only did a tune up (cap, rotors and wires) and my coil died after 20 years of service.

Swap'DShuttle

So everything lights up on the dash, you can hear the fuel pump prime and it just sputters? I'd either have the coil tested or check resistance yourself.

dizzi

yep, i turn the ignition to (ll) all dash lights come on, the CEL comes on for 2 secs then turns off. I can hear moving parts for a few secs which im guessing is the fuel pump? Then i turn the ignition to (lll) the engine cranks twice then seems to cough. Sounds nuffin like the way it sounds when your simply just out of gas and the engine cranks and turns over but doesnt start.

Swap'DShuttle

Yeah you'' hear a hum until the CEL turns off, thats the fuel pump. And if its turning over strong just coughing I'd check that coil resistance. First check to see if you have spark or weak spark. This video should help too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K78XIhhjAQ

dizzi

also, i might as well throw in the fact that about a week ago my radio was bugging. after getting off work i sat in the car for about 2 mins and for whatever reason the radio seemed to reset. it went in and out without resetting a few times after as if it was losing power for whatever reason. not sure if its significant cause right NOW the radio, ac, dash lights, headlights, ceiling light, and fog lights seem to run fine but the car isnt starting.

dizzi

yup i hear moving parts as the CEL is on then it shut off as the CEL disappears... and thanks for the help bro i appreciate it. I'll follow the vid and check if the spark is weak. Then i'll see about testing the coil resistance.

Swap'DShuttle

No problem dude. Good luck, and keep us updated.

HondaPartsHero

Look at my picture again you have all 4 plug wires one cylinder off, should be like

Swap'DShuttle

Holy ****! I really missed that! Good eye hondapartshero!

dizzi

Oh wow are u serious?? Im gonna run and fix them now!

dizzi

I love u!!! Lol, damn i knew it had to be something simple i did! Thanks man... i didnt pay attention to the position of the distributor in that picture compared to mine... How did i miss that!

dizzi

Thanks again to both u guys for all the help.