Does the lower timing cover have to be on the engine to drive or can I remove it? Also, I have a 89' Integra with the 1.6L DOHC, is there any other 1.6L that has the same lower timing cover?

 

IMO all the cover does is keep the weather off the belt.

Your alternator belt lives out there...so I guess you don't really need it.

 

I wouldnt drive too much without it, especially if your not running fender liners. Other than protection of the belt, the only thing you need it for is to set ignition timing.

 

Heh. I know too many guys who thought it was cool to watch their T-belts spin round and round so they didnt put covers on em...
I got a couple laughs out of when they got rocks or other debris caught up in the belt and they were pulling the head the necxt night...
Don't do it...spend the $50 for new covers...
http://www.acuraautomotiveparts.org/