hey guys,

I've got an 89 civic DX that has decided to give me problem after problem. First it wouldn't pass smog and the guys at the shop said it needed a new O2 sensor. I replaced it. The timing belt then broke when I was getting ready to go get it retested. I replaced that. As I was replacing the timing belt, I discovered that the water pump was near death. I replaced that.

I then timed the engine and everything was great.

Since the weather here is turning cold (snowed yesterday) I decided to check the thermostat. It is OK. Replaced the coolant and bled out the air.

Now I took it on a test ride. It was fine for 1/2 block and then started hesitating, check engine light coming on, and main relay clicking. Then, it just quit with the main relay clicking like mad. The ECU shows no codes. I got the car pushed back.

Now it idles fine, but anytime a load is placed on it (backing out of garage or going back in) the relay starts clicking and the car threatens to die.

What is going on here?

I need 1 more year out of this car.

Thanks

 

the check engine light shouldnt be coming on with no codes thrown. and id say pull the main relay check the soldering, and replace it or resolder as necessary

 

I pulled the main relay and checked all solder joints. Everything is good.

I'm beginning to suspect the alternator. How do I go about checking it without taking it down to the shop?

 

I didn't tell you this and don't recommend it but pull your neg wire off the battery while it's running, if it dies you have a bad alt. if it still runs your alt. is putting out power.