Upper timing cover #3 is what you want to open. But I think you WILL have to lift the valvecover a bit 'cause it traps the edge.

 

well, I pulled off the valve cover and there was no timing belt going over the sproket, in fact< i can't even see where it went.
anyway, this confirms that the belt is gone.
I have a mechanic giving me a cost (sight unseen) for a t belt job (all the belts plus water pump etc>) and assuming there is some damage to the valave - how many i don't know.
anything else i shouod heve the mechanic look at/check when he gets it open?
I need to decide if i should sasve it or part it out.
has a new alt, new front to back full exhaust, including cat., new radiator, new michelins, yikes.
my previous post indicated that the local dealers get 750-1038 for a tbelt job. he said he would be at approx. 500, so add fixing damage, hope to keep it to 1k or less.
any and all advise welcome. those who have been down this road please share input or advice - will it be the same or plaqued with problems forever?

thanks

 

Wow, let us know how it goes.

One thing, if the belt came off entirely, that might be a good thing. The camshaft will quickly stop, and the valve springs will cause it to stop at a position where all the valves are almost closed. If it avoids colliding during that second or 2 while the camshaft is coasting to a stop, then you're good. Do ya feel LUCKY?

If the belt had stayed on the pulley but lost a few teeth, then the camshaft would continue to turn & THAT continues beating the pistons on the valves.