does anyone know what sensor this is: its an air temp. sensor located underneath the distributor goin into the block, is a 2pin clip on sensor. i dont think its the ect because that one is next to the top rad. hose. (97accord lx 4cyl non vtec)

 

That is a water temperature sensor.

That is the one that the ECU sees.

There are three water temp sensors on your car.

1 for the ECU
1 for the temperature gauge (The one pin sensor right next to the one you mentioned)
1 for the radiator fan relay (Either on the thermostst housing or the back of the engine block)