Replaced Main relay info with pic

Well, today I replaced my CRX Main relay, same issues with all 88-91 ef's.

Here is a picture of my old one.
As you can see there are many solder joints that are cracked or starting to crack.

910.jpg

I am gonna resolder the joints on the old relay and keep as a backup.



Symptoms of a faulty main relay:

Problems starting the car, usually after a short run (when the interior is warm), though in some cases, the car may fail to start at any time. A classic time for the problem to occur is at the gas station, or if you park for a minute to get something from a shop. If the car is parked for a long period, the interior usually has cooled enough for the joint to make contact again, and you won't notice a problem. As the cabin temperature is a major feature of this problem, it might appear worse on cold or rainy days when you have the heater running to clear the windows etc. Extremely cold temperatures can also cause the problem to be more apparent.

FYI, The Main Relay controls five circuits:
Battery
Ignition
Pump
Injectors
Starter

Reason why car won't start:

The main relay wouldn't fire up the fuel pump due to the soldering cracks on the Relay PCB.
Cracks would appear over time and can be re-soldered, or you can buy a new one from the dealer.

Comments

  • luis808luis808 Wagonist
    Great info. These go out a lot on our EFs
  • RobbRobb Wagonist
    luis808 wrote:
    Great info. These go out a lot on our EFs
    Because of the age of our cars, the solder joints on all electronics components/computers are starting to crack ! Not bad after 20+ years though.
  • morningbakermorningbaker Band Wagon
    The Main Relay also relays power to the ECU.
  • RobbRobb Wagonist
    The Main Relay also relays power to the ECU.
    indeed
  • The_HeadThe_Head familEE
    I always replace this first chance I get when I buy a 20+ year old Honda. Whether it needs it or not.
  • RobbRobb Wagonist
    The_Head wrote:
    I always replace this first chance I get when I buy a 20+ year old Honda. Whether it needs it or not.
    Agreed
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