1998 Honda Prelude car starts up after a few tries..

1998 HONDA PRELUDE
166,166 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MARIO25
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Hi, I have recently changed the ignitor control, distributor, kept up with all my oil changes, new starter, spark plugs, fuel pump and filter but today I was starting up my car and it cranked and then the rpms dropped suddenly before getting it out of park and wouldn't turn over.. after a few tries it eventually did start.. also while driving the rpms drop below 1000.. was wondering what could be causing this?
Oct 21, 2010 at 2:22 PM
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KHLOW2008
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Hi mario25,

Have you checked what is missing when it could not start?


Have you checked the PGM-FI main relay?
Oct 22, 2010 at 9:27 AM
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MARIO25
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I had a computer hooked up to it about 2 months ago at autozone and nothing came up on it.. how would I check if its that?
Oct 22, 2010 at 10:53 AM
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MARIO25
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You are talking about the main relay for the fuel injection or fuel pump right? How would I go about checking that piece to see if its working correctly and replacing it?
Oct 22, 2010 at 11:09 AM
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KHLOW2008
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The PGM-FI main relay supplies power to the fuel pump.

When engine could not be started, you need to check what is missing.

Click the " First Things To Check " link at bottom of post to get an idea what to look for.

If fuel pressure is missing, then the PGM-FI main relay could be the cause.

If there is no battery voltage at the distributor, then it could be a faulty ignition switch.
Oct 23, 2010 at 8:16 AM
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MARIO25
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One other issue I forgot to mention was that it only happens when the car has been used thruout the day in the extreme Miami heat.. any way to narrow it down based on that.. on a short budget and don't want to fool around buying unnecessary parts.. thank u
Oct 29, 2010 at 1:47 PM
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KHLOW2008
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Heat related means the PGM-FI relay is the most likely culprit. Remove the relay and resoldering the circuit board would make it work again. You would notice cracked solders on a few of the joints.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/192750_PGMFIRelay97Prelude_4.jpg

Oct 30, 2010 at 9:53 AM