Honda Repair: 1988 Honda Civic LX wont start, honda civic lx, head gasket

Question
Hi Rick, My son has a 1988 Honda Civic LX, with 120K plus miles. We live in Ohio. We have relaced rad, water pump, distributor & starter, but car won't start. We removed the spark plugs and cranked the engine and antifreeze shoots out of 2 & 3. Also those two plugs had antifreeze and more dirt on them. What would cause that to happen? Would that prevent car from starting? Can it be fixed? Any information will be appreciated. Thank-you Clay

Answer
Clay, there's a couple things that could cause that. You may have a head gasket issue, a cracked head issue or a cracked block issue. Either one is definitely not good. That'll have to be repaired before getting the car started. My experience with those cars is to just replace the engine. If it's the head gasket you're O.K. but if not get a used engine from a scrap yard that comes with a warranty and install it. The car should start then. If not you'll have to confirm spark, air, and fuel. Good luck, RICK