On my first Honda Civic (an 87) I didn't change the belt because I didn't
realize it was an interference engine until I got that HUGE repair bill.
With all my other imports (older Nissan's), I just let the belt break
because it was the same price to replace a broken belt -and no internal
engine damage was caused.

FYI, that original cam belt on my 88 Civic lasted 6 years/180,000 miles
before it broke, but I plan on changing the belt on my current Honda every
60,000 miles, WITHOUT FAIL.

Rob

"Tegger®" <teggeratistopdotcom@changetheobvious.invalid> wrote in message
news:Xns94754F3684875teggeratistop@207.14.113.17.. .
> "Bill Kiene" <bkiene@pacbell.net> spake unto the masses in
> news:e3GOb.12957$jW.12746@newssvr27.news.prodigy.c om:
>
> > How long miles/years should I wait to change this on my 1998 Civic ?
> >
>
>
> Read The Owner's Manual.
>
> It probably says 72 months or 90,000 miles, whichever comes first.
>
> As Wolfgang says, this IS an interference engine, meaning that if the belt
> breaks, the valves could smack into the pistons and result in very
> expensive engine work.
>
> Extending the interval beyond that specified is a gamble. *I* wouldn't do
> it. The odds are not in your favor.
>
> --
> TeGGeR®