Originally Posted by
Alfred5279
I say throw on the belt and see how it runs. Thats your best choice. Especially if yer low on cash.
If you have cams, high compression pistons, or a milled head then maybe i would take the head off to see the valves.
I've had a 91 integra, 89 crx, and a 94 civic. all STOCK. drove those suckers till the timing belts snaped. even tried to crank the engines. NO BENT VALVES. I think bent valves due to a busted timing belt is a thing of the past. Older cars may be at risk to banged up valves.
I believe the valves will clear the pistons no matter what. I think thats the way honda designed the engine. OF COURSE I MAY BE WRONG THOUGH.
It has nothing to do with the age of the design. And interference engines aren't a thing of the past. You had exceptional luck with your Integra... because all of the B-series engines are interference design
from the factory.
Speaking in general terms, I will never understand why people don't bother to keep up with preventative maintenance when the cost of replacing the timing belt is cheap insurance against a mulched valvetrain.