I have been lurking and searching for a while trying to get a handle on my issue without luck. It mainly occurs when colder out (below 40 or so F).

-1994 Del Sol S (D16Z6) with 180k miles
-Manual
-Recent plugs and fluid change
-Wires about 15k ago

When driving car seems to die, the tach drops to zero and I get no power. The stereo, lights, and speedo remain normal. It will usually come back in a few seconds, but will occasionally not return. I do get dash warning lights after it dies, so I assume it's not the ignition switch. Checked all vacuum lines and sensor connections, rotor looks in good shape as well.

My next step is either the TPS or maybe entire new distributor. Any ideas? Thank you all in advance!

 

When this happen and you try to start it again do you hear the fuel pump prime? If not check the main Relay for crack or bad solders.

If you hear the fuel pump then check for spark, if you not get spark check the ICM.

Any CEL?

 

Well it is usually in motion, so I have not noticed. It usually returns on its own after a few seconds. But I will check in a bit. Would main relay cause it to turn back on of its own accord though?

Also, no CEL, but it is OBD-I. The misses feel like ignition misses rather than fuel as it dies so quickly.

 

Yes, when the main relay is bad after few try's it normally start again. But is important to check if the pump prime or is lack of spark when this happen.

Both Main relay and ICM shut off the car and start after a while (normally).

 

I second main relay and ICM. Those two seem to be the culprit, more likely the main relay needs to be reflowed.