Hello speed freaks, my question involves a noise on the timming belt side of the engine. The noise is some sort of clacking. By the way I have an H22-vtec engine from a 1999 Prelude in my 91 Civic. Please if anyone knows, I already took it to a local import mechanic and he said that he could not find what it is. Please help. Thanks.

 

oh ****... you're in MY area of expertise.
OK, maybe I'm not an expert, but I've had more than my fair share of timing issues.

First, take off the timing belt cover and check the tension with the car off. It should be fairly tight, but not ROCK hard. I think 5-10mm of play on the front and back side of the motor is decent. Don back me up on this one?
Next, I would check the play with the motor running. While watching the belt, blip the throttle cable and let off. Some amount of deflection is normal... but if it looks excess, it probably is. If it's making a "flap" or "clacking" noise, then it will look scary.

Also, if you feel like yanking the valve cover, the tension between the two cam sprokets should be tight.

Does your car feel like its "falling flat" on the top end? If so, then you're more than likely dealing with timing. The tensioner on the H22A is hydraulic, so if it's collapsed, then its done for, and you'll need a new one.

Have you shaved the head any? When was the last time you replaced the belt and tensioner?

Good luck! And if it's flapping (when you look) enough to make noise, then DON'T drive it if you can help it.