Hi folks I need help. I have just rebuilt the head on my 98 2.0 dohc. Before I took it apart I did my homework I set the cam gears to the correct marks set the crank gear mark. I then disassembled everything, removed the head, rebuilt the head replacing two valves, all the seals and 4 lifters. I carefully reinstalled the cams in the correct position. Re installed the head and torqued to specs, l followed the instructions on alldata to install timing belt and setting the crank gear mark. and cam gears making sure #1 cylinder was at tdc. I made sure that the. cams were in correct position by rotating the crank and watching the position of the cam lobes. After final assembly I went to start the engine it acts as if it wil but get a backfire through the throttle body. I have gone back 4 times to check , reset the timing marks but still nothing. Need help.

 

What timing marks are you referring to?

 

I hate to say it, but something is not timed right. For it to be backfiring, says it all right there. I have a 05' Neon SXT 2.0, and just did the timing belt, and waterpump, so I know what you are going through. It's a lot of work, but you will need to tare it back down, and recheck your timing marks. I'm not sure if your car, has the interference engine or not, I know mine is, but just be careful how much you try turning the engine over. Engine damage will happen, if it is a interference engine. I'm sure you know what your doing, but even the best of us, can make a simple mistake every now and then. Good luck.

 

Sorry, I just realized we have the same year neon. So yes, you have the Interference engine. Just be careful, not to damage that nice rebuilt head. The valves can possibly hit the pistons, if timing is incorrect, or if the belt breaks, while the engine is running.