When I turn the key to position 2, I hear a soft ~2-second whir which is
probably the pump, followed by a non-start. By your logic, that means the
main relay IS working OK, since I didn't need to slap the dashboard...?  :)

My timing belts are probably 15,000 miles old so they should be healthy.

Thanks for the helpful ideas.

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You dont' even have to touch it to prove if it's causing the problem. In
a quiet place, turn the key to position II. Listen to fuel pump run for
2 seconds. If it doesn't run, smack the dash and listen. If pump runs,
it's your Main Relay. You car will now start, and the vibration will
keep the relay working until you shut the engine off.

Have you checked that that your timing belt isn't broken yet?

'Curly'

In an earlier thread (1994 Honda Civic won't start) people recommended
that I check the main relay to rule out a failed solder connection (for
example http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/mainrelay.html).

Would it suffice to simply touch up the existing connections with the
tip of a soldering iron?

Looking for an easier workaround than re/desoldering just to rule out
this simple part...

Thanks.