Hi, I am kinda new here.. I just need some general input.

First, it's a 2000 civic ex D16Y8 w/ auto (27k mi). I did my valve clearance adjustment on it yesterday and changed my spark plugs too. Anyway, I left the car overnight to cure the liquid gasket stuff. This morning, after a ECU reset, the car starts fine w/o any problem. Until I drive a couple blocks... and slowed down at a light. The car stalled! I was like wth?? So I went into a parking lot and check everything. Seems fine. A couple things I need some input on.

1) Do I really need to retorque the crankshaft bolt? I tried to do that without the special harmonic thingy holder but couldn't really do it. In anycase, I understand that factory put that sucker on pretty tight... so I figure I shouldn't worry about that too much, or should i?

2) When the car stalled, it showed the engine check light and the battery light... really weird. It didn't stall anymore since then. I guess the ECU is trying the idle speed or what not... should I worry about this?

3) Idle speed is a bit low also. Normally, it used to be around 750 or so after the engine heats up. Now, it's around 500ish. I tried to read up on the IAC... but it seems that timing may change if I play around with that... Then I may have to check timing again. Should I leave it as it is? or go and get a timing gun?

Appreaciate any input.

BTW, format may be a bit screwy since this is my first post :-)

 

1) Its a good idea, but not 100% essential. I'd pick up one of those tools if you have the $70 to plop down on it, as they come in immensely handy. Just bought one myself. If you have a torque wrench that can torque that high to begin with... 3/8s doesn't cut it, gotta have a 1/2.

2)That's normal when you stall. Same as if you turn the key to on but don't start the car.

3)I may just be having a tired moment, but I think you'll be fine playing around with your idle screw.

Car stalled just because your idle was low... RPMs were low to begin with and dipped a bit as you stopped, and that was it for the engine.

Please keep these sorts of posts in the basement, thanks.

 

Here's a $38 Honda crank tool:
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/SP-60100.html

 

Are you sure the valves are not too tight?