I will do that first thing when I get home tonight.

 

So...

Got home, pulled dizzy cap. Spring is there. There was a little bit of buildup on the connections which I scraped off. Not sure if this is a good solution or not, keeping in mind it started prior to my adventure.

Replaced dist. cap. double checked wires all seated and in correct order.

Tried to start. Almost turns over. Repeat.

Went to the store and got some starter fluid. Sprayed in intake.

Tried to start. Got to the point where it was like it wanted to run for almost 2 seconds, pushed the gas slightly, let off the key and it died.

I have a theory, which is that now that everything's in order, my numerous attempts to start have flooded it. From my previous limited experience, usually letting it sit for awhile fixes this, but that hasn't worked so far.

The only other thing I've noticed is that cylinder #1 has some oil on top (just to the right of the VTEC stamp) The old wire was cracked here and I think some was leaking out. However, with new plug and wire, that shouldn't be an issue.

Lastly, fuel pump is still working, can hear it, definitely can smell fuel...could I have a leak in the line somewhere? Car's at 250,000...not sure when/if pump or lines were replaced.

Fuses? Which ones would allow it to start and almost run but then die while still turning on the fuel pump?

Any other ideas...?

 

Everything points to lack of spark. Have you checked for 12V to the distributor on blk/yel wire at distributor connector? If you have 12V, it's time to begin checking coil and ignitor, or replace these parts.

good luck

 

I think if you want to try to start it without flooding fuel into the cylinders you could push down on the accelerator all the way while cranking. I remember reading this somewhere and I believe the source was an official manual? Having the throttle wide open by having the accelerator rammed to the floor signals that the cylinders are flooded so the car doesn't add more fuel.

 

I think one of my roommates has a meter, so I can check that tonight.

 

Did you replace the coil wire as well ?? It sounds as if you have poor spark
from the coil to the distributor. Pull a plug out and ground it against any steel and have a friend crank the motor over....Do you see any spark ??

 

After charging the battery all day I came home and tried to start. After a couple failed attempts, I mashed the pedal to the floor and voila! Big cloud of blue smoke out the back, but drove it around, went to the store, and started it to go to work this morning.

Thanks to everybody for your help!