Interference Motors ?

[SouthernSlammed]

Question for engine mechanics. Got a 00 Dodge Neon. Today from a stop, I went to make a turn and the motor shut off. Would not restart, timing belt is toast. I have read that valves are likely bent. Is there easy way to check, or is taking off the intake manifold the only option short of pulling the head?

 

[roundhouse]

How do you know it's the timing belt ?

 

[SouthernSlammed]

It's turning over fast, no compression. 230k miles, never changed.

 

[bambam]

Compression test each cylinder. Turning over fast, like it would do if the spark plugs were out, could be a sign of low or no compression.

 

[slacker1972]

The easiest way to check is to pull a spark plug out put your finger over the hole and have someone hit the key, if there isnt any pressure the valves are toast

 

[Shemp]

You'd likely hear pistons hitting valves (even if they are vent) when turning it over. If it is an interference engine and the belt did snap you 99% likely bent some valves.

 

[roundhouse]

If it is an interference engine and the belt broke
The engine is toast
A 240k dodge engine isn't worth fixing

You need to find out for sure if it is an interference engine

But maybe not since it does turn over Freely

Lot of work to replace the belt. But doable

 

[woodstock]

Pull apart is now your friend

 

[BillsCamino]

Compression test each cylinder. Turning over fast, like it would do if the spark plugs were out, could be a sign of low or no compression.

A compression test won't tell you anything. The cam, although to longer turning, is still holding some valves open.

 

[harrycalahan]

I had a couple cars come in my old shop where the timing belt had broken -on- or just off of idle and the valves survived because the rpms were low enough to prevent damage when it broke. If the belt broke, the engine will spin over fast from the valves staying open. It all depends on long (length) the valves hang out of the combustion chamber in relation to the piston.