420A Timing/Crankshaft Gear Removal

[nboyd2002]

Anyone have a secret to getting this off? I've been at it for an hour now with an impact and it won't budge what's so ever. I've sprayed pb blaster on it and let it sit over night. Still notta. Do I need some high industrial impact gun or?

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

 

[pauleyman]

What exactly are you doing? Insert the center bolt and just using a ratchet?
15 sec google search

Google Search

 

[nboyd2002]

What exactly are you doing? Insert the center bolt and just using a ratchet?
15 sec google search

Google Search

Actually, I took the center bolt out just for pictures sake. I'm aware the bolt goes in the center. It's not coming off is the issue.

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

That's a common problem with the original sprocket on the 420A. That sprocket is one of few OE parts still being produced today, and for good reason.
Edit: NOW DISCONTINUED.

The way you have it set up is how I typically remove them. Try using a breaker bar for additional torque. With enough pressure it will eventually slide off. I see a chunk missing from the sprocket so hopefully you've planned for a replacement.

If it continues to fight, try heating it with a torch. I've had it where the threads pulled out of the sprocket and I had to tap to a larger size on the three bolts. It will come loose though just keep at it.

 

[nboyd2002]

I appreciate your feedback. And I honestly don't know how the chunk came off. When I removed the timing cover I noticed it. I'm assuming maybe someone damaged it prior to me owning the car. I've actually been trying to find a replacement for that reason and have had no luck. Would it be something a dealership would have or be able to order? I've not had any luck searching online unfortunately. I will keep at it though and try the torch method as well.

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

It was likely broken because someone tried to use a 3 jaw puller to remove it. I've seen that before.

As of today the damn thing is actually discontinued. I don't keep a parts pile anymore these days, but if I did those would need to be included after hearing the news.

I followed the link I usually purchase from and it states discontinued. Luckily you can still get one on Ebay for $48 which is less than I've ever paid for one. It shows that 3 people have it in their cart though, so it's best to get it now because it will go fast.

(Discontinued) Mopar OEM Crankshaft Timing Sprocket, 95-05 Neon

(Mopar has discontinued this part, we have no more left in stock, sorry. As of 2025, we are working on making a replacement sprocket. Have a chipped, broken or corroded crank sprocket? This Mopar OEM Crankshaft Timing Sprocket fits the following vehicles: 95-99 Neon 2.0L SOHC 95-99 Neon...

www.modernperformance.com

1995-2005 DODGE NEON ENGINE TIMING CRANKSHAFT GEAR OEM NEW MOPAR 4667604 | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 1995-2005 DODGE NEON ENGINE TIMING CRANKSHAFT GEAR OEM NEW MOPAR 4667604 at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

 

[Canadian_CD9A]

I snapped a chunk off mine and just gave it to the machine shop, who probably used a torch. Beware - you will need a new gear, and the new one is going to be absolutely awful to install without heat, too. Ask me how I know (I bought mine from Modern on NYE, sucks to see it's gone).

 

[nboyd2002]

I appreciate your help and insight. I stumbled onto that website myself. Was disappointed to see no longer being sold. The ebay listing states it's out of stock as well at the top. It would seem I might be up shits creek here. What are the chances of the chipped piece interfering with the belt? I'm not sure how long the previous owner drove it like that. The belt didn't seem to have any damage when removing it but it was definitely worn from age I would say.

 

[BLACK'98DSM]

Luckily, the 2.4L sprockets can be used instead (pn: 4648939AA). They are also discontinued now, but this makes finding one at the junkyard much easier.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

Are the 2.0 and 2.4 crank sprocket interchangeable? - neons.org

Also, it turns out there is an OEM tool for removing the sprockets. I don't see any advantage to using this though, especially not for over $100.

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

https://www.freedomracing.com/6793a-crankshaft-sprocket-remover-6793.html

 

[nboyd2002]

I appreciate your feedback and help on the matter. I stumbled onto an article about the 2.4 as well. I'll start my search for a 2.4 gear then. I've tried heating it and it's still not budging. Definitely a pain in the ass part to get off.