I decided last minute I should build a challenge car. It's a 1998 Dodge Neon RT (2.0 DOHC). It was purchased for $600, but I later found out it had a blown head gasket. (Could have probably got it for less)
https://www.youtube.com/embed/DbBT9J3WFQ0
As it came fresh from Rhode Island
Stripped down to oil pump/crank/bed plate
cool. I'm in to follow the progress!
I have an irrational love for this.
Im doing the same thing to my 95 ACR right now!
In for the Neon content as I'm learning my way around my own.
New main bearings installed
Anaerobic sealant applied to bedplate surface.
Bedplate installed.
Next step is to machine clip grooves in stock pistons so I can use used Eagle rods and a full-floating setup. (Stock piston left, JE on the right with broken ringlands)
I have to make a fixture next to hold the piston on the lathe.
Fixture created. It's turned to about 0.825", threaded with 1/4 NPT, and then cut so it expands as the bolt is tightened.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/0g845Inwfrg
...you can just do that? Just take a stock piston and add some clip grooves? That's awesome.
I have to trim the wrist pin to fit between the clips, but here's one side installed after adding the groove:
Sweet! If you end up needing any parts let me know. I have some spares I keep around for my rallycross car.
I miss my acr....
Piston/rod work is still being done, but in the interim, she's going on a diet.
And what would Eagle rods be good for without an ebay turbo?
Been a while since the last update. Time is running out, but I feel as if I can finish in time.
Pistons/rods installed.
Running a Fidanza flywheel as I have one and it's budget exempt.
I'm trading myself a Neon head for a 420a/Eclipse/Avenger head. The only thing that's different is the intake and exhaust are reversed. Using stock neon cams that are also reversed. Intake for exhaust, exhaust for intake. The intake manifold and fuel rail you see I've made for another project that currently doesn't run. (You can see that motor in the background)
As it sits currently:
Hoping to finish up in the next few days and register :)
The clutch is an Audi pressure plate (roughly double the clamping force of a Neon) with a Neon disk.
Had to pull the engine today and install the rear main seal because I forgot :/ Still made some progress though. Intercooler and piping has been completed. Also some progress with the wastegate. It wants to be where the hood wants to some degree, but packaging is interesting using this manifold.
Looking good. So.. what's the deal with the pressure plate again? I think this might also be useful information for K-cars..
In reply to Vigo :
It's from an Audi 1.8 turbo. It needs to be modified slightly, but it can be done. There's a thread on neons.org if you want to read more about it. ("Clutch Measurements & Comparison UPDATED")
Any update on this? or has it fallen to the wayside for the holidays?
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