It's out of time. You need to make sure the crank and cam gears are in alignment before installing the belt. If the belt was broke, the valves could be bent.
Assuming the timing belt let go, you could do a compression test.
The timing marks on a '97 Dodge Stratus are located on the timing chain and the camshaft sprocket. They must be aligned to set the initial timing.
Belt
Not an easy job. Get a manual on your car to do the job right the first time.
According to the Gates website : The 2001 Dodge Stratus : 2.4 liter , 4 cylinder , timing BELT 2.7 liter , V6 , timing CHAIN 3.0 liter , V6 , timing BELT
Belt! Located on the passenger side!
The 2.4L has a belt The 2.7L has a chain
no
Belt
belt giagram for a 98 dodge stratus 2.4
The 2.5 liter V6 engine in a 2000 Dodge stratus has a timing BELT
Behind the timing belt cover.