Timing Cover... broken?

[Taylon]

I replaced the water pump in my 94 1mzfe and I realized the timing belt cover #2 is broken... the top 1/4 has been ripped off, probably where the previous owner opened it hastily to check when the pump went out. Idk.

My question is, how crucial is the cover? I've got the pump and belt on and ready to closer the engine back up, but I'd hate to have to come back again soon...should I replace the cover now? I'd have to find a new one first, and take the crank pulley off which I'm not looking forward to.

In a nutshell: Is the cover necessary?

Any thoughts or $.02 is appreciated. Thanks!

[1996camry]

i know the cover is broken, but you can use superclue to put back all together. it works, because I have done before.

or you can go junk yard and get cover..the cover it's critical because it prevents objects and water get inside while the car in motion...