1997 Dodge Neon No Power & Running Very Rough

Tiny
LAFERRIERE
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 DODGE NEON
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 10,000 MILES
The car runs so poorly that my son left it along the highway. I was able to drive it how by pumping the accelerator peddle all the way home. The OBD code stated a bad #1 oxygen sensor, which I replaced. I also replaced all of the spark plugs and wires since the spark plug tubes were partially filled with oil. I also replaced the valve cover gasket and and the four spark plug tube seals. Sometimes the car runs very well, but then it suddenly looses all power as if it has no fuel. I can pump the accelerator to keep it running and plan to check the fuel line pressure next. I also put in a bottle of heat to dissipate any potential water in the fuel tank. The timing belt looks very good and since the problems are intermittent I don't think it is the cause of the problem. I will test the fuel pressure next, but I am wonder if anyone has any other ideas?
Sunday, January 24th, 2010 AT 9:13 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
BMRFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 19,053 POSTS
Check fuel pump pressure and fuel flow

if all OK
disconnect O2 sensor and try as you may have the wrong O2 sensor as it is an air fuel metering sensor too
an ordinary O2 sensor may fit but may be sending the wrong readings
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Sunday, January 24th, 2010 AT 10:03 PM
Tiny
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Monday, January 25th, 2010 AT 10:55 PM
Tiny
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  • 3 POSTS
The fuel pressure is good, but I am not sure how to check the fuel flow. Also about the oxygen sensor, I double checked with Autozone when the new sensor looked so different. The assured me that the new oxygen sensor was the correct one. How do I check for adequate fuel flow?
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Monday, January 25th, 2010 AT 10:59 PM
Tiny
BMRFIXIT
  • MECHANIC
  • 19,053 POSTS
Fuel flow is to measure the amount of fuel the pump, pump out

try and disconnect the O2 sensor check if running better
check catalytic converter and exhaust back pressure
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Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 AT 7:59 PM

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