I know you guys are honda guys, so I figured Id ask you this question.


This just happened today. First I drive an automatic tranny 1991 Honda Accord LX.

When I try to start my car it is hard to turn the key, then when it is in park, or neutral, it has a grinding noise coming from the engine bay. It isnt very loud, but speeds up with the rpms.

When I put it in drive or reverse it stops though. Could any of ya'll tell me what this might be?


Thanks.

 

There was a Honda TSB on this way back in '91 (91-028). Here it is trimmed down to the important details:


Product Update: Automatic Transmission

Dear Accord Owner:
Our records indicate that you own a 1990 (1991) Accord with an automatic transmission. A small percentage of these transmissions may experience a condition where a shaft flangenut becomes loose. As a result, a loud whine may occur while accelerating in first and second gear; this noise may also occur in park and neutral. While most 1990 (1991) Accords will not experience this condition and it does not create a danger or safety hazard, we want to assure the long-term durability of your transmission. Improved flange nuts and locking washers are available that prevent this condition from developing. In order to avoid any possibility of damage, please call your dealer and make an appointment to have your transmission updated at your earliest possible convenience. This update will be done free of charge. We apologize for any inconvenience this product update may cause you; however, our main concern is your continued satisfaction with your Accord.
Respectfully,
AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

BACKGROUND
A product update campaign is being conducted to ensure the long-term reliability of Accord automatic transmissions. If the transmission is not updated, a shaft nut may loosen causing noise and possible damage.

VEHICLES AFFECTED
1990 Accord: All with A/T
1991 Accord: All with A/T, thru VIN:
JHMCB76 . . MC093388 (Japan 4-dr.)
1HGCB72 . . MA056143 (Ohio 2-dr.)
1HGCB76 . . MA153884 (Ohio 4-dr.)
1HGCB98 . . MA019542 (Wagon)

PARTS INFORMATION
A/T Update Kit: P/N 06210-PX4-305
H/C 3996220
• (2) Flange Nuts, RH thread
• (1) Flange Nut, LH thread
• (3) 24 mm Spring Washers
• (1) End Cover Gasket
• (3) O-rings, 7.7 mm x 2.3 mm
• (1) O-ring, 16 mm x 2.1 mm
• (4) Front Beam Bolts, 12 x 105 mm
• (1) Damper Fork Bolt
• (1) Damper Fork Locknut
• (1) Radius Rod Locknut
• (2) Radius Rod Self-locking Bolts
• (1) Cotter Pin

See your dealer, note the bulletin #.
Hope this helps