Timing Belt Cover - do I need to replace it?

Hi, I'm doing a swap of a 97 Accord F22B1 for a H23A1 into my 95
Prelude. I was going to replace the timing belt on the F22 since
that's what broke on the H23 and I think it's been done already.

The reason I say this is the lower cover has a hole in it from the
belt rubbing. It looks like the cover was never (re)installed
correctly and the top edge around the crankshaft pulley wasn't seated
behind the pully but was in front, hence the rub of the belt.

My buddy says not to replace the cover and that this problem even
exists on engines as they leave the factory.

I wanted to get some more opinions before I decide.

Thoughts?

Thanx

RJ

 

I would not like the easier access of dust and water to all
the moving parts.

Used Honda TB covers are abundant at junkyards. Should cost
you just a few bucks.

I do not recall reports of this problem (TB cover rubbing
against whatever) here.

 

I would tend to agree with your friend.

Both of my timing belt covers on my '82 & '83 Civics have "holes" where
the pulleys have worn sections. Plastic covers simply distort in high
engine compartment temperatures.

JT

 

$:

People also sometimes install belts too loosely.

 

no, the cover is there for a reason. all kinds of junk blows up under
the hood from time to time. you don't want sticks or stones getting
lodged in the timing belt.

the only people that run without covers are those into adjustable cam
timing, or who want to show off their colored aluminum cam gears.

 

exactly - properly adjusted belts [of the right quality that track
straight] do not wear holes in the covers.

 

Hey bub... Y' accusin' me of being "loose?"

<G>

JT

 

Au contraire... The holes in my covers were caused by distortion in the
cover over the the lower pulley. Both cars exhibit the same malady..

JT