1st start after 1st time doing timing belt.

[t36]

So it finally quit raining (I have to reseal the hatch because it's delaminated) and my wife made a trip to Chick Fil A this morning like we usually do on Saturdays. This was the first time I've driven the car more than just around the block of my neighborhood since 2018 and probably the farthest drive since 2007 of about 4 miles.

By the time we returned home the whine had become noticeably quieter. I think with some more miles it's going to get a back to a normal level.

I've not put the timing belt cover back on yet. I wanted to get a 100 or so miles on the car and then re-check the belts before doing that. I did make a separate trip to the grocery store tonight and drove it about 5 miles. On the way home I managed to shred the accessory belt. I think I didn't have it quite tight enough. I'm going to pick up a new belt in the morning and see how that goes.

They 100% do. The more miles, the quieter.

And always listen on a warm engine, not cold

Sorry I should have specified a new belt and cold. But yes, a broken in belt will relax

That’s good!!! The first trip after any bigger job is always funny. Stereo off, nose and ears working like they are hoping for a promotion!


The accessory belts are surprisingly tight. Especially in comparison to the timing and b/s belts.

[danmartinic]

Anyone have experience running lots of miles without the upper timing belt cover? Any issues with that?

I always liked the early 924 2.0 where you can check the belt condition just opening the hood.. plus it looks cool

[PSU_Crash]

Leaving the cover off is definitely tempting! In my humble opinion it's just not worth the risk. If something happens to get in the timing belt and break or cause it to jump time, that's going to be expensive.

[t36]

I bet you could drill one out and get a rubber press in plug. Make a little viewing window

[chris white]

I delete the front and rear belt covers in many of my builds. I would rather be able to see the belts / rollers as well as allow for better air cooling. It also allows for easy access if a balance shaft seal has to be replaced.
For those worried about exposed belts – remember that the A/C – Alternator belt and the power steering belt are exposed in a more open area – uncommon to have those belts damaged by foreign objects.