"R. P." <r_pol12gar@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:Z_WdnS-jj_xwv3fcRVn-ow@comcast.com...
> I finally made the move from the expensive Honda dealer service to an
> independent chain specializing in Japanese cars. I have mixed feelings
> about it because it did not cost me less than a typical dealer service,
> but about half the cost was due to a replacement of the distributor
> assembly that cost me $400 even though it was a rebuilt Delco model .
> Is this reasonable? I was told a new original from Honda could cost me
> $500-600. From what I figure a rebuilt one that's not even from Honda,
> should not cost more than about half of the cost of a new Honda brand,
> but what do I know? The reason for replacement was that the oil was
> seeping through it, so it was probably just a bad oil seal.
>
> A smaller problem was in the distributor cap where the center carbon rod
> was burned out and there was not even a solid contact between the top
> and the bottom center. Interestingly though I never noticed any problem
> with ignition before. Now I wonder if I was shown my own original
> distributor cap when I wanted to see it.
>
> The car seems to run better now, especially because they also replaced
> the thermostat that was stuck open before which I believe because the
> temp gage used to show no warming for quite a long time. Now it looks
> normal.
>
> The only thing that is worse now than before is the idling speed (aound
> 700) that seems too low and I stall often during starting. If I recall
> the idle speed used to be around 1,000 RPM before. Is it easy to adjust
> or I'm going to have to make another appointment with that shop?
> The car is a '94 Accord LX.
>
> Rudy
>
>

Is your Accord an automatic or manual tranny? There should be a sticker on
the inside of the hood that lists the recommended idle speeds. If memory
serves me, the idle speeds are different depending on the type of tranny.
At least my 2000 civic was like that. You may want to check that sticker to
see what Honda says your engine should be idling at. Keep in mind, these
are the warm idle speeds so if it's cold, it should idle higher and
gradually come down to the recommended speed as the engine warms up.