2.3L ('83-'97) 83 2.3

[ThatOneGuy]

Hey I figured this might get seen a bit more that in the in search of forum, but does anyone know where to find a upper timing cover, searched all over around me and cant source one.

 

[Dirtman]

Junkyard is basically your only option. You don't really need it though, I prefer to run without it to keep a better eye on the timing belt.

 

[bilbo]

Junkyard or ebay. I'm not sure if they are still produced aftermarket but I thought I remembered seeing them. At any rate, if your '83 is like my '83, removing that cover to look at things will require removing the fan, crank pulley, and idler pulley. Also, if your '83 is like mine the idler pulley is pressed on a post and seized for eternity, which means you'll actually have to remove the alternator/PS pump bracket. I guess what I'm getting at is Dirtman is probably right and it's more of a PITA than it's worth.

 

[tomw]

If you don't drive on unpaved roads or where there are rocks that can get kicked up by traffic, you most likely won't miss the cover. OTOH, a rock that gets between a sprocket and a belt may not be a good thing. I don't remember if I removed the fan when replacing the belt, but for sure did have the cover off... My belt tensioner(85) pulley is mounted on a steel plate bracket that can be removed readily so did not have an idler problem.
tom

 

[rusty ol ranger]

If you don't drive on unpaved roads or where there are rocks that can get kicked up by traffic, you most likely won't miss the cover. OTOH, a rock that gets between a sprocket and a belt may not be a good thing. I don't remember if I removed the fan when replacing the belt, but for sure did have the cover off... My belt tensioner(85) pulley is mounted on a steel plate bracket that can be removed readily so did not have an idler problem.
tom

I ran my 91 escort for years without a cover on the belt in snow, water, gravel and that was a low slung car. I bet he'd be fine without a cover.

 

[ThatOneGuy]

I guess I'll take tha route lol ty