90 Honda Civic w/ a couple of problems

KJK23MN

MEMBER
1990 HONDA CIVIC

I havde a 90 Honda Civic 4cyl w/ 130k miles and a manual transmission. Recently I have noticed a significant decrease in gas mileage and also the car wants to stall in first gear unless I apply lots of gas while releasing the clutch.

Today I went to check the plugs, wires, fuel filter and noticed when removing the plug wire for the cylinder nearest to the driver side wheel, the cylinder looks to have some oil in it. What could be causing this problem and can I repair it myself or should I see a dealer?

My second question has to deal with a knocking sound which occurs when I crank the wheel to the left to make a 90 degree turn or u turn. What could be causing this and can I repair it myself?

I have minor mechanical knowledge but can follow a chilton/haynes manual if I know what I am trying to accomplish.

Any and all help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Kevin

1 Reply

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,753 POSTS

OK Kevin. Here is what you need to do. Mark the wires on the plugs. The right as you face it is #1 and they count up going left. Pull the plug wires. Remove the valve cover (4 bolts) and then put on a new valve cover gasket AND the plug well seals. Clean out the plug wells. Replace the plugs and I would replace the plug wires too after being in the oil. Put it back together. Be careful not to over tighten the nuts on the valve cover. Go for the proper torque.

The noise when you turn, look under the car at the boots (rubber ribbed covers) on the axles. How many have rips or tears in them. I would wager that the axle needs to be replaced.