hey guys i have a 93 civic lx with 104k on it and sometimes the car wont start randomly and when it does it runs good but all of a sudden the rpm gauge will start to jump like it'll under 1000 and then it will go up to 1500 and then back down and then back up so forth and so on and it feels like the car is bucking and when it does this the engine gets really hot. any suggestions on what this problem could be?

 

What have you checked or replaced ??

 

I've checked the battery that's about it. i don't really know what else to check i just drove and it started fine and it didn't jump at all but the engine is still getting alot more hot then it should be.

 

Is the check engine light on? If it is pull the codes.

 

Check the spark plugs, wires, cap and rotor, as well as the coil and igniter unit inside the distributor.

 

the check engine light isn't on i will check all of the those things... what should i be looking for like loose wiring? wet coils? i dont know much about cars so i need help

 

Resolve the overheating first. Engine running badly will not cause overheating; something is wrong with the cooling system. Start by checking the coolant level in the plastic bottle and in the radiator itself. Engine must be completely COLD before removing the radiator cap.

 

Low coolant would certainly make the car overheat and if low enough, wouldn't circulate coolant through the IAC valve causing the goofy idle...

 

I missed the overheating part. Mk is dead on correct.

 

head gasket?
lines leaking?
radiator leak?
like these guys said your car is running badly because of the over heating.
not vice versa