im new to the honda world. i just got a 90 dx with stock motor and it feels like it has 20hp.
in order to go up a hill i have to floor it in 1st gear. friends hf motor can
take that same hill in 3rd gear. i have to ecu codes. no problem during cranking
or cold starts. it just puzzles me why i have no power. when i got WOT it feels like
im just stepping on the pedal at 10% load. so in other words full throttle is useless.

 

when was the last time you had a tune up? are you using all oem parts

check your timing

 

Just seconding that a tuneup is where I would start with a new used car purchase. You want to start your troubleshooting with a clean slate. Also, all OEM ignition parts pay for themselves, and you would have to replace these anyway in the near future. So new OEM ignition wires, plugs, distributor cap and rotor and timing check should be first on your list.

It is amazing how many rough running problems are fixed just by installing new OEM ignition wires and plugs.

For the best prices, see if your local Honda dealer has an internet parts site. If not, consider buying from an OEM dealer like http://www.bkhondaparts.com .

Here is a more exhaustive list of how to keep your Civic running well: http://honda.lioness.googlepag...etips

If you really think a tuneup is not going to fix the main problem, then I would try to determine whether the catalytic converter is clogged. Loss of power on hills is a symptom of a failed converter.

 

excellent advices!!! i'll try that big list. so far
i changed the non oem o2 sensor with new oem.
changed the motor oil. as far as spark plugs, cap, and
rotor still old oem. the plugs are bosch and they look new still.
going to check the big list right now.


Modified by 90JspecRex at 5:04 PM 10/5/2008

 

I would get rid of the Bosch plugs first thing. Again and again Bosch plugs are cited as not very good for Hondas in anecdotal reports on the net. Get NGKs, which is one brand Honda approves of.

If you need an owner's manual for the exact NGKs, see the resources at http://honda.lioness.googlepag...urces

Good job on the oxygen sensor. A non-OEM one or an old one can cause power problems, too.

Might be fun to change out a part and see how performance changes, as a learning experience, though you sound like you have been down these roads at least once before.

 

wow excellent resource site. i was an ex-bmw forum member and i've been looking for online DIY and other helpful sources like the ones i have found for bmw but until now no luck. but thanks to ur site
it'll be fun reading.


Modified by 90JspecRex at 5:25 PM 10/5/2008