97 Neon Head Gasket

Looks like I may be pulling a head on a 97 Neon. Low compression between cylinders.

Wondering if you guys have any tips or pointers along the way. Can the intake and exhaust manifolds be pulled off connected to the head, or do you need to seperate first?

Also I remember a while back a neon I worked on blew its Cam seal. From what I hear this is a rather common problem on these motors. Is there any updated parts I can install to keep this from happening?

Thanks!

It's easier to pull the head with the manifolds disconnected, especially the exhaust one.

I don't know of any updated parts for the cam seal, just get a new one.

Also, make sure you get a MLS headgasket for reassembly. Felpro makes a nice one.

There is a camshaft seal retainer part # 5016733AA for single cam engines. I ran a bead of silicone around mine but won't know if it worked for sure

Thanks guys! Project not started yet, but soon providing nothing comes up next weekend. Its just been one thing after another.....