My 150,000 + '96 Plymouth Neon Sport Coupe DOHC's started knocking last night & the oil light came on.
I added oil, it’s now over full, still knocking, (even louder) & the oil light is still on. I was in an isolated area & forced to drive to safety, about 40 mi.
My question-Did my oil pump go out & I threw a rod?
Had a Honda once that the pump was driven by the overhead cam. The gear stripped, pump stopped & then the engine froze. Is this true of my neon. Engine still runs, but…………
Should I junk it? (It’s soo cute) Replace or repair the engine?

Did my oil pump go out & I threw a rod?Is very uncommon for the neon's oil pump to go out, so I don't think that is your problem. I added oil, it’s now over full, still knocking, (even louder) & the oil light is still on.If the oil is overfilled, then that is a bad scenario, make sure it is at the correct level. Too much oil is a no no. You may have some leaky rings. still knocking, (even louder)Is it knocking or valves lifting? Does it sound like a ticking noise and increase with acceleration? Should I junk it? (It’s soo cute) Replace or repair the engine?You can get a used neon engine all day for about $300 and if you can put it in yourself, then that may be the way to go.

Ahhh man wish I knew what was up with my neon

pamr32, Nice to meet you.

I believe that the oil pump on the DOHC is on the crank... on the harmonic balance end. Not driven off the OH cam.

Gad knocking doesn't sound good. Oil lights .....jeepers.

Have fun replacing the engine. (it is fun)