Timing belt question

Hi, i have a 95.5 honda passport v6 and i have a question about the timing belt. I have 94k on it now and i am going to change my timing belt, tensioner, water pump out when i hit 100k. recently, when i start it up from cold, it will make this slapping noise for a few sec, maybe 2-3 sec then goes away. This only happens when i havent drove it for a day or so, but doesnt happen when warm. Im not sure if its my tensioner going out on me but im worry. If the tensioner goes out on me, can i still drive my car or should i get it towed? Thanks

This slapping noise, it's very possible that it's your timing belt loosening due to the tensioner, yes.

What does it sound like?

Just had to replace all of that myself, as my waterpump bit the dust with only 90k miles on it causing the timing belt tensioner to weaken - which begin to sound like a rod knocking.

If it's only occuring for a few seconds upon start-up you should be ok, but I wouldn't be making any out of town trips in it, as there is no telling exactly when it will go.

Mine probably could have been driven to the shop for repair, but not with the failing waterpump - it had to be towed. Understand though, that this was the 2nd belt, pump and tensioner on my rig in 155k miles, and I'm known for doing a lot of mountain driving and boat hauling (extra stress).

Personally, I would not be driving any mountain passes, believe you were the poster about the chains needed for taking a trip? The extra stress on the timing belt could weaken the tensioner further, leaving you stranded. IF that is the cause of the slapping of course - but I can't think of what else would cause that noise at start-up.

Man, I'm in awww at your 94k miles, wish I could turn back the clock on mine!