Noise when replacing timing cover 2001 Toyota Camry 2.2 5SFE

[Jaksun]

Hi All, did a timing kit on the weekend replaced all belts, tensioner, idler pulley, oil seal pump gasket and shaft seal. All went pretty well, however upon replacing the timing cover and starting there was an additional noise of something hitting the timing cover (a bit like a tap tap tap sound). I put a screwdriver on it and listened to the handle and definitely coming from the timing cover. I took the cover off and the noise stopped, checked timing belt was tight and no issues apart from some of the gasket around the timing cover being broken. Took those broken bits off, replaced the cover, still get the noise.

Anyone know what the issue would be? Also how bad or not is is to drive without one of these timing covers?

[Tony Prodigy]

Bit difficult to say, but if there is a tap, tap, tap sound, it seems like something making is contact during rotation. Take the cover off and see if there is a witness mark inside the plastic cover. This may get you closer to the culprit.

I wouldn't suggest leaving the cover off either. It's there for a reason.

[Jaksun]

Thanks, I will be cleaning the cover and looking for marks shortly, will see if I can find anything. Also been trying to get the seal, once I got the number I can get it from toyota for $16

Edited February 9, 2021 by Jaksun
typo