I have a 1998 Acura 2.5 TL with 105K miles on it, and it is due for a timing belt change. In the old days (early 80s?), if the timing belt happened to break before you changed it, it could result in MAJOR engine damage. (Bent valves, etc.) I've heard that somewhere along the line they got smarter and figured out a way to not trash the engine when/if the timing belt breaks. Does anyone know if a 1998 Acura 2.5 TL has the non-destructive timing belt design?

 

It turns out, I found the answer to my question at
http://www.gates.com/downloads/downl...older=brochure

Timing belt-equipped car engines can be classified as either free-running or interference, depending on what occurs if piston/valve synchronization is lost due to a failed timing belt. An interference engine usually sustains damage if synchronization is lost (because the piston can come in contact with the valve). This could result in very expensive engine repairs.
Apparently the 1998 Acura 2.5 TL is an interference engine.

 

Almost all of the newer honda motors are interference motors. Thats why it is soooo important to keep up on the changing of the belts

 

I can personally guarantee you the G25A is an interference engine. I adopted the Vig because my friend slacked on the maintenance and didn't change the timing belt. At 101,000 miles even it snapped, and now I'm replacing the entire cylinder head.