replaced timing belt, engine wont start on 2001 dodge neon

2001 DODGE NEON
135,000 MILES
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BUD KAETTERHENRY
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didn't here any abnormal noise, do have spark at plugs, fuel OK
Mar 29, 2012 at 4:43 AM
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CARADIODOC
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Have you checked for diagnostic fault codes? When you have an engine problem, please list the engine size and whether it's a single or dual cam engine. Have you rechecked the belt timing?
Mar 29, 2012 at 4:56 AM
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BUD KAETTERHENRY
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DID NOT CHECK CODES YET-- ENGINE IS 2 LITER HIGH OUT PUT 2001 IN DODGE NEON RT - DID RECHECK BELT TIMING
Mar 29, 2012 at 5:02 AM
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CARADIODOC
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If this is the single cam engine, check for a sheared off dowel pin between the camshaft and sprocket. That will let the sprocket turn a little which retards the cam timing just as if the timing belt was off one tooth. At one tooth off, (or the equivalent), the Check Engine light will turn on and the fault code will be "cam and crank sync". At two teeth off, the Engine Computer will shut the engine down to protect it. You will still have intermittent spark at some plugs. At three teeth off, the pistons will hit the valves and bend them.

If the original belt broke while the engine was running, the valves will be bent. You can verify that with a compression test or cylinder leakage test. The engine will sound unusual when you're cranking it too.
Mar 29, 2012 at 5:49 AM
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