98' civic 'Check Engine' light after header install

I did a search and it seems like this is a common problem after a header install. The header we put on eliminated the factory Cat. I followed the steps most people do to reset the ECU and the light stayed out for awhile. But sure enough, it came back on last night so I am thinking that maybe there is another problem with the car. We are going on a long road trip tomorrow so I wanted to get this straightened out before we go if I could.

I looked on http://www.hondata.com/techecucodes.html this site and it was very informative yet I had a couple of questions. The car is a 98' Civic LX, so would it have that 2-Pin diag connector that is to be shorted out to read the trouble codes from the check engine light? They didn't mention if this has to be done with the ignition on or off. Or would I have to read the blinking LED on the ECU itself? Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks.

[pdiggitydogg]

you have not cat...thats why youre throwing a cel (aka check engine light)
you need a cat, there isnt any way around it other than o2 simulator or switching to obd1.

oh and it is not a common problem

do you know where I can buy a o2 simulator? Thanks

[pdiggitydogg]

there are instructions on how to make one in the step by step section
but because im so nice...here


in the future, please search the forums before you post, thanks

edit**oh yeah, if youre not mechanically/electronically inclined, you can shell out about $50-100 for one online (just use google or ebay to find em)

You know, it does suck when people do not search, but this is actually kinda interesting. . . . . .

Originally posted by bigcletus
I did a search and it seems like this is a common problem after a header install.....

I must not have made it very clear in my first paragraph that I had searched the forums before posting but did not find the exact answer I was looking for.

Thank you for the info you provided, it is very helpful.