So my 96' accord likes to die while driving(+270k miles). I put some sea foam in the crankcase a couple weeks ago and then the RPM's started spiking a little bit on the tachometer 200-300 RPM's when I was driving, then the RPM's started dropping and now the car RPM's drop down to 0 and like to kick back up to 2000 RPM's or sometimes it's becoming more frequently engine just dies.

Many codes I've received in the past couple weeks: P0430, P0706, P0715 mass shaft sensor error (where is this?) I found the permanent DTC's and it says P0700 Permanent A/T malfunction. I couldn't imagine it's the transmission is going out, it shifts fine and idles at 1750. Going 48 MPH today I was running at about 1900 RPM's.

The service bulletin for the P0715 says I need to analyze transmission data with a PGM, where can I find one of these? Should I just go ahead and do cheapest repair, clear CEL and watch. Transmission fluid was changed at 245k. I did not flush though, pulled drain plug when I got car/refilled, then some miles later pumped out all the fluid I could and refilled with 4 quarts. I suppose I could have took to a shop, didn't realize transmission had 12 quarts in it. When I called Honda dealer to change fluid they said it called for 5 quarts.

I'm hoping there's just a short in the wiring harness. Any suggestions on where to look?

Thanks~

 

Go to the top of the forum, click on the Accord FAQ, and look up the procedure for cleaning the IACV and adjusting the FITV.
P0430 Honda - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 2
Until you fix the idle problem, ignore the P0430 code. It just means the catalyst is not functioning correctly. If the car is out of tune the catalyst will not be able to properly function, so don't go replacing your catalyst while there are other engine/drivetrain related issues.

P0700 Honda - Automatic Transmission fault.
This is a very generic code. This will pop up when there is an issue with the transmission, but it is non specific. You see P0700 you will have the actual code after. If not then there is something that the TCU/PCM is unable to deduce.

P0706 Honda - Open In Transmission Range Switch Circuit
Most likely the switch inside the center console for the shifter is out of adjustment, or the shift cable is.
Does the correct light for a given gear correlate with the gear selected?
Check the cable adjustment first http://techauto.awardspace.com/ignit...tch.html#stuck
Then check the switch itself, which is in the above article.

P0715 Honda - Input Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
This is most likely an issue with the NM/NC sensors on the right side cover.
No need for an analyzer, just need to locate the sensors, pull then, clean them, check their resistance, and if good, reinstall and check wiring.
Best way to remove fluid and junk from transmission is to drain it. If you just pumped it out all you did was remove the fluid, you need to drain to remove the sludge and junk that builds up in the pan. If you do not this can accumulate and plug the sump pickup filter. There is no way to replace this filter without removing the transmission and opening the case.
It is best to drain and refill. Usually just drain and refill 3x, driving in between drain/refills.

Make sure all related connectors and wires are clean and connected. Corrosion can inhibit the signal at a connection which then can set a code.

96/97 USDM Accords are the same as 94/95, with the exception of the OBDII system. You can also check the OBDI codes by looking under/behind the glove box door. Pull down the two wire blue connector, jumper it and turn the ignition to II(ON). Read the CEL/D4/ABS codes from the respective dash lights. This will also help verify the OBDII codes. Honda Transmission OBDII codes are not well documented, while the OBDI ones are.

 

What's the easiest way to get at the speed sensors to remove them? Do you know there bolt head?

I found a wire going to what looked like some sensor yesterday, on the passenger side behind the distributor. I think this is the vehicle speed sensor?

Thank for your your thorough reply. That gives me a lot to look at, although I'm only interested in fixing what's causing the engine to die randomly.

 

To remove the shaft sensors you will need a 10mm wrench, they are located in the right side cover of the transmission. Look through the passenger side wheel well, you will see the end of the transmission, that is the right side cover. Note the image I posted above, it is the cover and two sensors.

 

Can you post a snapshot of the location of the sensor?

I found these, but I'm not sure they are it. Hardest thing about fixing some things is finding where it is...

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/1...902114b0_b.jpg

 

Those are shift solenoids.

Go back to Post #2, see that image I have quoted, THAT is the right side cover and those are the NM/NC sensors that you will need to verify have the correct resistance and are clean of debris.

http://techauto.awardspace.com/transmission.html
Use the Techauto site for further information.