Good thinking!

 

just want to verify you know how to do a leakdown test vs a compression test. in order to do a leak down, you need to make sure the valves are closed and with the belt off, you'll need to remove the valve cover to verify the valves are closed.

but on these 2.0 Neon engines, I can tell if it has bent valves w/o a compression test or leak down test by visual inspection of the cam follower position.

good luck, I've yet to see a 2.0 blow a timing belt and not bend any valves (and I've had over 20 come through over the years)

 

i think it has alot to do with having a 5 speed.. when it starts acting up first think i do is push in the clutch and when the belt snaped, the engine stopped immediatly, as opposed to lettin it roll to a stop and the motor rotating the whole way. IM not sure, but thats the only way i can figure not bending any valves.

 

its not a five speed its an auto. idk, this weekend we are runnin a few tests and seein what outcome we can come up with. Ill keep yall posted as the process goes. im hoping that it aint nothin serious although i am enjoying driving this 5speed mazda!