So, i recently picked up a '98 dodge neon SOHC, automatic, and the gas pedal has a really weird issue. when i drive, it only goes about half down smoothly, and it feels like I'm hitting a block. if i keep pushing it down, it'll pop itself into neutral. i can put it back into drive, and everything goes back to square one where i can only push it down half ways.

additionally, if the car is completely shut off and in park, it goes down all the way to the floor smoothly, with no 'block' half ways.

would this be an issue with the throttle cable being frayed, or is the throttle body the culprit? (please not a transmission issue!)

I'm hoping to fix this myself, i have general knowledge of working with cars but im definitely not a skilled mechanic.

thanks in advance for the tips and advice!

 

If you haven't adjusted your kickdown band, you may want to do that first.

KICKDOWN BAND
The kickdown band adjusting screw is located on
left side (top front) of the transaxle case.
(1) Loosen locknut and back–off nut approximately
five turns. Test adjusting screw for free turning in
the transaxle case.
(2) Using wrench, tighten adjusting screw to 8
N·m (72 in. lbs.).
(3) Back–off adjusting screw 2 1/4 turns. Hold adjusting screw in this
position and tighten locknut to 47 N·m (35ft. lbs.)

Also, take a look at the shifter cables and see if they are all gummed up. You can use some penetrating oil or PB blaster to aid as well.