Nissan Repair: 1991 Honda Civic Hatchback(auto)??? Please help, honda civic hatchback, spark plug wire

Question
Hi Calvin,

I just bought a 91 Honda Civic today from a friend.
It was running perfect 2 days ago. Now it wont start.
My friend ran out of gas, the car stalled, She put more gas
in it and it didn't start. She thought it was the fuel pump but i checked and i think its working fine. I then checked the engine and there is no air compression in two of the valves?.. i think. The car is turning over good, but when it fires it backfires?? I was told maybe the timing belt?
Please help me out. Thank-you      -Jay M  

Answer
Hi Jay -

Could you check 2 thiings and get back to me? -

First, check the timing belt. Remove the distributor cap. Turn the engine by hand and observe the rotor. Ensure it spins. Then align the timing marks on the damper to TDC. The rotor should be pointing directly at the #1 tower of the distributor. If not, or if the rotor doesn't spin, replace the timing belt.

Second, if the above test passes, replace everything and pull out a spark plug wire. Insert a screwdriver til it contacts the terminasl inside securely. Have a helper crank the engine while you hold the screwdriver about 1/4" away from any metal surface (do not touch any metal surface while doing this). There should be a spark jumping.

Let me know please -
aloha
calvin