This DIY service, repair and maintenance manual by Haynes, covers 1973-1979 Honda Civic 1200, all models including Sedan and Hatchback with 1169cc or 1238cc engine. Manual and automatic (Hondamatic) transmission.
Book Excerpt: 1973-1979 Honda Civic 1200 Repair Manual
IGNITION SYSTEM
DISTRIBUTOR | REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT
Begin by removing the main cables to the battery, this is a safety precaution to prevent sparks when leads are disconnected in the ignition circuits.
Next remove the HT leads from the spark plugs and identify the leads with labels to ensure correct refitting.
Remove the distributor cap.
Rotate the engine until the rotor arm in the distributor is pointing to the position occupied by the stud in the distributor cap connected to the spark plug in the No. 1 cylinder (Figs. 4.3 and 4.4).
On the manual transmission cars the easiest way of turning the engine is to select bottom gear and nudge the car so that the engine turns to the desired position. Then apply the handbrake and leave in gear, to ensure that the engine does subsequently move.
On automatic transmission cars the only method available for moving the engine other than by acutuating the starter motor is to turn the crankshaft pulley.
There is no firm mechanical link between the transmission and the engine through the torque converter. If the distributor is being removed with the engine out of the car, use a block bolted to the cylinder block to lock the flywheel and engine in position while the distributor is off.
Make a pair of marks with a center punch on the distributor body and cylinder head to indicate their alignment before removal.
Undo and remove the two bolts which secure the distributor to the cylinder head.
Disconnect vacuum lines if you have not already done so, and identify them with labels to ensure correct refitting.
Now the distributor can simply be pulled out of the cylinder head.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FRONT SIDE/TURN LIGHTS
The front lens can be removed after the two retaining screws have been undone.
The bulb may be removed and replaced once the lens is off.
If it is necessary to remove the light housing, the two retaining nuts accessed through the inspection holes beneath the bumper need to be removed.
Lift the light unit from the bumper and separate the electrical connector which serves the light.
Installation follows the reversal of removal, but as always ensure that the electrical connections are clean and secure. Also ensure that the water seals are in good order and properly positioned.
TABLE of CONTENTS:
Introduction: Vehicle identification numbers. Buying parts. Safety. Maintenance techniques. Chemical and lubricants, and more.
Tune-up and routine maintenance
4-cylinder 71.4 cu. in. (1169cc) OHC water-cooled engine
4-cylinder 75.5 cu. in. (1238cc) OHC water-cooled engine
