I was removing my timing belt today and I noticed that the inspection hole at the front of the block for the balance shaft is missing its bolt. I can only guess that since this is my first time doing the timing belt that the previous mechanic did not replace the bolt.

My Evo has experienced a couple track days and dyno tunes since the last mechanic worked on the timing belt. That hole has been open to exhaust heat and any number of contaminants.

How screwed am I?

 

I'm surprised it didn't lose oil. Anyway, spilt milk but I doubt it is a problem.

 

Just making sure youre referring to the port used to align the balance shaft?

If that port is open to the crank case, then a simple oil change would be best

 

Yes that is the port I am describing.

 

Oil change, just in case. Trim down a standard bolt to fit (IIRC, it needs to be really short). Done. I, too, am surprised it didn't get too messy. I'd expect a lot of oil to shoot out of there LOL.

Good thing you found it sooner than later!

 

Balance shaft inspection hole. Were they ad a breather line. It wont spit out oil. Unless you have alot of crankcase pressure.