No start/crank - Code 8

doitdub

After driving the car down my driveway, then back, shut it off. About an hour later I went to move it and it wouldn't crank at all. I'm getting a Code 8, which is TDC/Crank sensor.

So after following the troubleshooting flowchart in the manual, I've ruled out distributor, ECU, and for kicks main relay (had a buddy over with same stock DPFI set-up and my stuff worked in his car and would start fine, his in mine and still same no crank). Luckily I was able to do this as everything I found on this problem is fixed by replacing distributor. Well not the case here.

I'm starting to think there may be a break in the harness somewhere, but don't really know how to correctly test for resistance and find the break.

So does anyone have any recommendations for doing that or other ideas of what it could be?

wagodizzle

Code 8 - Top Dead Center Sensor

It's the second sensor in the dist. It can also be located on the camshaft of DOHC engines. It determines the injection timming for each cylinder, also used to detect engine speed (rpm) to read the basic discharge duration, for different operating conditions.

If the dist. base bearing starts failing, it will heat the sensor(s) up, destroying the magnetism thus causing a code(s). It will lose 10% of it's strenght, each time it is heated up, to a 170 degrees plus.

In most cases, replacing the distributor is the only alternative. Especially if the bearing has failed.
Honda does don't stock the bearing, but other after-market compaines are said to have one.

If you have problems starting the engine, or drivability after the install check your cam aligment. The seizing bearing might have caused it to jump a tooth/notch or two. From the extra drag due to the bearing failing.

maybe?

doitdub

That might make sense if the distributor was messed up, but it's good...no seized bearing as it worked fine in the other car, and a working one didn't work in mine. Wouldn't hurt to check though I guess.

stampern

I'd still check your timing. I've had a couple hondas in this year alone that have just all of the sudden jumped a tooth or two on the cam gear and the belt was still tight when I looked at it. Can't explain why, but couldn't hurt to make sure your timing is right.

doitdub

It ended up being the starter. That code led me on a goose chase. :?

ragenasian

A starter, whack that crap with a hammer, it will turn over. Did this for 5 months on my VW Another trick of mine. The wife got so sick of me hitting it with a hammer she finally ordered me a new starter

doitdub

I tried man. Whacked it a hand full of times and no luck in getting it to turn. It was the original starter though from the looks of it...with lots of gunk caked in there.