Newbee here and newbee to Neons. I just picked up a 96 Neon to beat around in. Ti has 108K miles.While changing the oil, I notice alot of oil leaking. Is this a common problem? If so, is it the rear main seal?.</P>


The pan has had a good hit as there is a faily good sized dent in the bottom. I plan on replacing the pan.</P>

 

The oil pan is made of cast alumnium that is very brittle, if it has a dent then it is probably cracked as well. Also check the oil pressure sending unit for leaks as well.

 

Thanks for the reply. I will check these out

 

I am a professional mechanic.I have a 96 neon, the most common place for them to start leaking oil is from the oil pasage on the back side of the engine right t the head gasket, look just above the oil sender from under the car you will be able to see if it is leaking there, I had to replace my hed gasket at 80k I now have 156k and it is leaking again! like I said, it is a very common problem

 

Regardless of the oil leak, you should replace the problematic head gasket. The Neons from '98 and earlier had crappy head gaskets that blow out for a past time, they make good replacement head gaskets that solve that problem.

 

Dont forget the Cam Position sensor and the valve cover that leak too.</P>


These are some areas that I have run into on my Neons. I own 4!</P>


Generally the cast aluminum pans were on DOHC motors. Most SOHC motors are stamped steel.</P>


PM me with any questions, I also have a factory service manual to help you with any questions.</P>


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Jeff<IMG src=smileys/smiley1.gif border="0"></P>

 

<FONT face="Courier New, Courier, mono">I have a 97-98 neon all have had head gasket problems </FONT></P>


<FONT face="Courier New">If you have head gasket replaced have the head planed </FONT></P>


<FONT face="Courier New">at 15to20 thousands it will make sure head is true and not worped also will increase compression and horsepower.</FONT></P>

 

Don't forget that you will have to run premium fuel if you get the head shaved, unless you use a thicker head gasket. Higher compression requires higher grades of fuel. <img border="0" src=smileys/smiley2.gif border="0">