89 accord been having problems with it starting I'd have to unplug the distributor sensor and it would start but now that doesn't work. Can I replace just the sensor or do I have to replace the distributor? Please help

 

I moved this out to its own thread because it wasn't related to the thread you posted in.

Welcome!

 

thank you

 

You can replace the sensor. Before doing that check the electrical signal to the sensor and be sure there is not open on the circuit or a bad ground. As far as the issue for it not starting normally, check the tach signal because the ignitor might be bad or because you are playing with the timing by unplugging the sensor there may be a bad thermovalve causing the air/fuel mixture to go out of whack. Thermo wax valve A and B are good ones to start with. I would try and find a "low" mileage car to swap parts from. Also check the nineteen miles of vacuum lines and rubber dead end vacuum caps for cracks.

Good luck.

 

Well, my first question is the car a LXi or a LX, DX? Or another way, does it have a carb or is it FI?

And can you give more details (pic's, location, something) on this "distributor sensor"?

 

It's an adult fuel injector. The sensor is right on the top of the distributor. Round plastic. I have replaced the igniter and the fuel pump relay also

 

I hate auto correct. It's an Sdi not adult. Turtleneck, thank you for the info. I'll look at the wax valve. It will start and runs great but once I shut her off the chances of her starting back in very low and it could be hours before she'll start again

 

Pic's? I'm still confused on what/which sensor you are talking about.

 

Sounds to me like their might be a bad gasket, possibly the intake manifold? It might be worth testing the gaskets while you have it running to see if their is a audio change in the engine/change in rpms. Although not recommended from a safety stand point, spraying wd40 or other combustible spray along the gasket joints is a quick way to see if air is entering the system where it should not be.