citizen21

Earlier today, I was driving during the night time and my instrument panel shut off for 5 seconds (lights stayed on but dimmed, headlights were fine). I immediately took my car home to avoid being trapped anywhere from car not starting. I tried starting up the car at home; the car cranks and engine turns on but when you let the key back to its resting position after the crank the car shuts off. I tried giving it gas a couple times while cranking and the car eventually stays on without further action after a couple tries. I googled and searched for the problem, but I can't find anything similar to mine.

Yes I know my car isn't a civic. Accord forums are pretty slow so I'm looking for some help here.

Background/Info

1995 Honda Accord EX 4CYL 5SPD
81k Original Miles
Changed sparks about 12k ago
Tested battery as "bad" a year ago but didn't take action since there was no problems.
Been owner since 67k so I don't know any tune-ups or anything.

I'm stumped whether to replace distributor, alternator, sparks, battery etc..

Looking to gain knowledge or if anybody had this problem, before taking it to a shop or doing replacements myself. Thanks for any input or thoughts in advance.

cleansi

if you have a parts store close by id have them test the alt and batterie most autozones checkers ect do it for free if thats not the problem id look into the dizzy,or main relay