Car: 1990 Honda Civic LX, 5-speed, 1.5L SOHC DPFI.
Question: Can anyone explain, or point me to a site that explains, the exact functions the main relay is responsible for?
Here is the reason why I ask. My main relay is screwed up, because it will not start when it's hot. I have to reach down and squeeze the crap out of it while pressing the clutch and turning the key for my engine to fire. (Yes, I have unbolted the relay from its original position and have it dangling beneath my dash. Otherwise, I couldn't drive my car anywhere) Once I do get the car to start, while it does run, it sputters when idling. (The "rhythm" of the sputter is quite irregular) The power curve is very erratic. Between 1k-2k RPMs, acceleration is very sluggish, (even in 1st gear) almost like I have a fouled plug. (That's not the issue, the plugs and wires are all brand-new) Once I pass 2k, there is a surge of power, then at 5k, another surge of power. Kind of a nifty effect, but I know it's not supposed to do that. I recently replaced my distributor, and the timing is set right in the middle. (I have no timing light to set it exactly) Regardless of how I set the timing, the sputtering is still present, so I've pretty much ruled it out as the cause. I'm using Bosch Platinum "+4" spark plugs, and Autolite Ignition #86472 plug wires. All engine components and other parts are stock, with the exception of an air-intake (metal pipe with cone filter) and a DynoMax muffler with 2¼" exhaust pipe.
Thanks in advance for any info!
Jonathan