gasoline is supposedly going to $3./gal this summer driving season. I am using my Ram 2500 4X4to commute 75 miles each way to work. It is time to put my daughter's 97 DOHC back to use. BUT, the head (or gasket) is sucking after a "mechanic" fixed it , and ALL the other problems that the carsuddenly developedwhen it was delivered to his shop nearby. He didn't deck (plane) the head mating surface I'm sure, and now I have 110 lbs of compression on the #4 cylinder. It is misfiring,as well...I am willing to re-do the headgasket, to spec, and while I'm at it , spend some further effort to make the car "go" better.I'm mostly concerned with reliability and economy, BUT I do apreciate more power.I am considering that the daughter hasdone some"custom" bodywork also,so it's more for go,than show.Any suggestions, ...complete engine?, head?, header?, Is there a head swap with a Stratus I should consider? I need to move on this project now. thanx for the assist...Kevin in Maryland

 

Whats your budget?

 

yea it sucks my new car gets about 8 to a gallon

 

I'm expecting to spend at least $500.-$700. to get it back to "warmed-over stock" condition... a friend at a local salvage yard has located a "good" used DOHC head for $350., but I haven't taken the one on the motor off yet, so I'm not motivated to go that route yet...besides, I'd think I can repair/upgrade what I have , if it's not too warped. It WAS overheated at least once during its life with daughter...a good inspection is in order. My max budget would definately be between $1000.-$1500. for the engine. With all due respect, it is a Neon...but I am a Mopar enthusiast...

 

Well you can't get much out of it for $500-$700 with rebuilding the engine as well. Just change the HG with the MLS one from Mopar or Felpro and keep fresh plugs in it. Maintain it well and you should get good gas milage.

 

i have a dohc head for sale.... $300--3 angle valve job done, resurfaced, pressure checked for cracks, new valve sealsvery clean....just missing the camgears

 

Whats number 1 compression at, thats the one you should be worried about. My engine is like 105-130 in all chambers. And my engine runs great. I would check spark, and coil pack. always leave worst case last. thats just me. good luck