Honda Repair: Drowned out Civic, engine computer, o2 sensor

Question
Hi! Last week I drove through very high water in my 98 Civic (92,000 miles/5-speed). It drowned the engine out. I let it sit idle for about 4 hours and then it was able to drive home. My dad "fiddled" with it - manually opened the choke? the device that revs the car and starts it. It then was okay for 4 days. Now the problem has started again - hesitates a lot and feels like it's about to die. Seems to be worse in 1st-3rd gears, but also does it when going high speeds. I'm trying to repair it myself. Oh, and about a month ago I had to replace the O2 sensor. It was sort of doing the same thing, except not as strongly as now. Could there be a connection? I've also heard it may be the distributor cap? I'd appreciate any help. THANKS!!!


Answer
Tracy,
Sounds like you have water caught somewhere, and is shorting out a sensor. The water could be most anywhere. In a connector, in the distrubitor cap, in a sensor somewhere. Did the check engine light come on? Is it on now? If so have someone pull the code for you and check the problem. If not, it may be a little tougher to diagnose.
I would remove the cap and roter and blow it out. Also maybe blow out some of the connectors where you think water entered. Also check the connectors at the PCM.(engine computer) That may be your problem.
Good luck!