Finishing motor up but no timing cover.

[rsross314]

Ok guys and gals , i have been building my 420a now for awhile and i am at the last steps before it gets dropped in this comming weekend. My only problem left is that during the process my timing belt cover was lost or thrown out with other parts. I have two questions , i did a search but didnt find anything about the n/t timing covers on if they are needed and also the option i would prefer to go with is ordering anouther one however i cant find any full ones. All i have come across are upper parts , is there a place to order the complete thing? I thought when taking the cover off it looked as though it also sealed some parts ? Thanks for any help hope this isnt a repeat.

 

[turbomoe]

You need a timing belt cover. If one pebble gets in there, you're screwed. It will cause the timing belt to skip. You should at least have the bottom of it covered.

 

[VelocitàPaola]

I rebuilt my block about two years ago. Like you, I broke my timing belt cover and threw it away. In a crunch for time, I made the conscious decision to leave off the cover. I avoid driving on gravel roads, but other than that, I drive normally and haven't experienced any problems. The chances of debris getting in the timing belt from below is pretty low. The dust covers and trim pieces, coupled with the oil pan/pump guard the timing belt from bottom access pretty well.

The belt is probably more likely to get damaged from a loose wire, bolt or tool being dropped on it from above.

Just weigh your options and proceed carefully either way.

 

[GS-T_Newboost]

go get one from a junkyard. i replaced my headgasket and left mine off. i was just rideing normal and slung my altnator belt. it came off one pully and went right on the crank sproket. in the end if i would not have been lazy and put it on i wouldnt have bent 8 valves

 

[b00stedtalon2]

It is highly recommended you have a timing belt cover. I always have.

 

[link16]

Noone makes fun of people for having timing belt covers. I would highly recommend using one if you cant afford to redo everything.