98 neon sport

[nuwt]

My wif'es 98 meon is running ok, but sounds funny on take off. If you gas it hard at take off it sounds like you started off in 2 or 3rd instaed of first. BTW its an automatic. After you get it goin down the road you can hear the lifters chatter upon acceleration. If you gas it harder it drops down a gear and goes just fine. It isnt throwing any codes. any suggestions on where to start would be appreciated. thanks

[neon_rt]

The '98 neon has only a 3-speed auto and does not take off very fast. At cruising speed, it will kick down into second and if you floor it, it will do 80-85 in second gear.
If you have the DOHC 150hp version, Premium fuel is recommended. Mine did not run very well on regular, although some people say it doesn't make any difference. With premium fuel the take off from a dead stop was noticeably better, the mileage was better and the pinging when I stepped on it to pass went away.

[nuwt]

I'll try premium gas and see if that helps. But should it quit sounding as if it is out of time? I am thinking of taking it to the dealer to check the timing. It may be 65 dollars but I don't think it should have the vavles rattle as bad as this one does.

[das2123]

If you are having problems with the tranny, first thing you should check is the fluid level, adjust and tighten your kickdown band, and make sure you are only putting Mopar ATF+3 or 4 in there and not Dexron/Mercon fluid!

Lifters are usually an indication of low oil. Check that.

[nuwt]

Originally Posted by das2123

If you are having problems with the tranny, first thing you should check is the fluid level, adjust and tighten your kickdown band, and make sure you are only putting Mopar ATF+3 or 4 in there and not Dexron/Mercon fluid!

Lifters are usually an indication of low oil. Check that.

Bought a new dipstick and it was the same as old. It takes 6 quarts of oil to read full. Even dealer says 4.5 quarts of oil. Add the 2 extra quarts and car runs quieter but smokes.So I am stumped.