I have a 97 dx 5 speed with 155k miles. I have replaced the fuel filter, spark plugs, wires, cap and rotor, and ignition coil. I have no catalytic converter, short ram intake installed properly, header, and full exhaust. It loses power randomly and now my gas mileage is noticeably getting worse. Sometimes on acceleration it will pop and almost die. It spudders and hesitates while just cruising on the freeway. No CEL's for anything other than the 2nd O2 sensor (since there is no cat). I need to know what this is most likely to be so I can get it corrected! any help is greatly appreciated!

 

It's a good idea to replace the entire distributor around 150k miles. You have already replaced some important distributor components, though you didn't mention the ICM or the distributor housing containing the three important sensors. You might want to have an auto parts store test the ICM, while you could resistance test the three sensors.

You also might consider checking the ignition timing.

 

is there a place online I can just purchase the remanufactured distributor without a cap, rotor, and coil? I've only ever timed old v8's, how do you do it on these cars?

 

Not sure where to purchase a good rebuilt distributor.

The diagram below shows how to set the ignition timing. You need an inductive timing gun (rent or purchase for about $30) and to jump the service connector behind the passenger kick panel. This is the same connector you jump to pull CEL codes, as described here.

 

thanks! any other suggestions before I test this out?