I just bought a 2001 civic. 180k miles with original timing belt. I need to replace the timing belt, and I have read that the 2001 also has a defective belt tensioner. I plan on replacing that also.

While doing this job, is there an oil seal that I should replace as "preventive maintenance"?

Do you have any other recommendations on anything else to change while I have it appart?

The owners manual indicates to check the valve clearance at 110k miles. Does anyone know if these valve tend to go out of adjustment or are they usually ok?

Can someone with experience listen to the engine and hear that the valves need adjusting?

Thanks in advance for your help
Glenn

 

Doing the valve lash is relatively easy. You can test the clearance without making any adjustments, you'll just have to take the valve cover off. You wont hear it if they're out of adjustment. I mean , they might be out of adjustment and not make any sound or, they might be fine but you'll mistake the valve-tapping for injectors. Just open it up and test the clearance.

As for timing belt, you might as well replace the water-pump and all the belts while you have it apart. Also, you generally try to replace all the seals when you replace any parts.