How important is it to run these? I've got the lower one on, but I don't currently have a middle or back.

I'm not running 3 or 7. I do have 1.

 

If you plan on street driving I would always run your timing covers. The risk of rocks getting in there and causing a belt to jump isn't anything I would play with.

 

exactly what i was looking for. that's what i was thinking, but wasn't sure if it was all that plausible

 

Put them back on. TheAsian is correct. It just takes 1 tiny little pebble.

 

alrighty thanks guys. i didn't take them off, they just weren't there when i bought the car. so if ya know anyone selling the middle timing belt cover, let me know.. is the back one really that necessary? looks like a bitch to put on