My 1992 accord wont start unless i use starting fluid. then it shuts off randomly while driving or reving the engine high. I have all ready replaced the main relay and the ignitor coil. Also right before it dies the main relay will chatter.
Any ideas on what the problem is?

 

WHEN IT DOESNT START DO YOU CHECK IF THERES SPARK AT THE SPARK PLUGS? LAST KNOWN TUNE-UP? DOES IT THROW ANY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BEFORE IT DIES. DO YOU FEEL HISSITATION WHEN GIVING IT GAS POOR GAS MILLIAGE.

 

Grounds are clean and tight-not only the battery but on the t-stat as well.

Fuel filter was replaced ____ when?

 

yes it sparks when it wont start im not sure when the fuel filter was replaced last. but if it was the fuel filter wouldnt that cause it to starve for fuel and sputter before dieing? the battery ground is clean what is the t-stat?

 

t-stat = Thermostat. The main ground for the ecu is located here _assuming stock engine. If the main relay is clicking just before this happens you could be losing ground or power to one of the circuts.

 

You know didnt think about till now. His right. Check all grounds. The ones on the thermostat are the main ones. Also follow the battery ground. Cant remember of my head where its connected to. Make sure its tight. But to check if the fuel filter is clogged break loose the bolt on the fuel filter. Do this when cold only to avoid fire. Have someone turn on the key shluld RUSH out for about 3 seconds if it doesnt RUSH out could be clogged filter. Could also be that. When the engine was sputtering it was causing the same affect as turning the key off when engine running then turning it back on really really fast without letting the engine die completely. Causing the clicking noises you hear. do you get what im saying? Best way I can explain right now.

 

I noticed you said you changed your igniter coil? Did you have the coil tested? It could also be malfunctioning when it gets hot. Meaning not providing enough spark (weak spark) see the starting fluid is sronger than gas making it easier to burn. When you use it it starts continuing to burn the little bit of gas the spark can. The hotter the coil gets the weaker the spark gets making misfire until it dies.

 

jdm-If you are thinking key switch-Best thing I've found, when it dies notice what lights are on (oil, bat, ect). Or even better, is there 12v at the BLK/YEL wire at the dist?

Also this link might help answer some questions: http://techauto.awardspace.com/ignition.html

 

yea i do im gonna check all that ill let you know. Thanks