During my recent work I noticed my timing cover is pretty bad off. I noticed it previously but ignored it. I patched it up the best I could for now. Someone in it's past did not replace all the cover bolts causing the cover to get eaten up by the crank and water pump pulley's. It even has a broken off bolt at the bottom but with my past experience with those I'm sure I can get it out. Does anyone know where I can get one? The local junk yards don't have any. They even said when they get something like a metro it usually goes straight to the crusher. Around here these days they pretty much buy car specifically for recycling due to the high metal prices and only keep best sellers for parts.

Throw it away and go on with your life.

I wish I could...

The mechanic who worked on my car, 1.3 (1995) ordered a cover from a GM dealer. Charged me $40.00 Canadian. (I'm sure there was some markup...reasonable).

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=915926

I'll look into it. Thanks...

I was being serious, there's no need for it. Lots of guys run without one.

Really? I wouldn't think that's a good idea. What about all the dirt and stuff that would get on the timing belt and components? When it rains the water gets thrown up in that area. I've had a few belt squeals from running through mud puddles in the past. Surely that can't be good for any timing belt. I have heard of people not using them but I've always heard it's not recommended on any car.