"TO L via CarKB.com" <u10197@uwe> wrote in message news:57f27c9286b15@uwe...

It seems pretty easy to check the valve clearance; even without a feeler
gauge. Sounds like she needs an honest mechanic.

Head, valves, rocker arms, pistons, block and misc parts are
some things to think about.

What types of damage could still be hidden?  I would imagine anything wrong
with the valvetrain's moving parts would make a big klacking noise.  Or lower
compression on a cylinder that isn't getting a good seal on the valve seat.

Any other ideas?

t

Just watch the idle and do a compression test. But some damages could
still be hidden.

As part of my ritual, the non-genuine belt should be replace before the
expected date. If there's any sign of oil on them they should be replaced
*immediately.* Genuine belts can soak up oil and can last as much as a
month on a well lubricated cam. I've seen it.

Hi All

My sisters (poorly maintained) 99 civic with 165000kms has recently snapped
the timing belt.  Thought I would add some ammunition to the OEM vs nonOEM
parts debate.

The belt has 60000kms on it.  Its made by Goodyear.  Its 3 years old.  We are
located in Winnipeg.  And its not even cold yet.

Not only did it possibly ruin the valve train, it took the lower timing cover
and the CYL Crank Angle sensor with it.  (And they want to charge $300 for
the sensor alone!)  Total bill to put it back together = $700 at the
dealership.  Then we get to crank it over and see if the valves are bent.

Sounds a.s backwards to me, I told my bro-in law to suggest doing the
clearance checks on the valves as is, but the dealership told him that
wouldn't work.

Any ideas out there regarding this?  Also does 3 bills for that sensor sound
right?  What about the valve clearance check?

Its not my car, so I am just doing this for info purposes.  I drive a (much
better maintained) 98 civic with 236000kms on it.

Thanks in advance.
t