Honda Repair: 97 Honda Odyssey, honda odyssey, valve adjustment

Question
Hello,
I am about to purchase a 97 odyssey with 78,000 mi. from a small used car dealer. It seems to perform well during a test drive and engine looks clean, but I am concerned about the timing belt, water pump, etc. needing to be replaced.  What is the approximate cost for replacement? I appreciate any other advice about what to check prior to buying.  Also if a timing belt breaks do the valves impact the pistons?

Thank you for you time and expertise.

Peter Bunge

Answer
Peter, that vehicle requires the timing belt to be replaced at 105000 miles or 7 years so I would reccommend it and at the same time the water pump is right there so you might want to replace it as well. Approximate cost for both is around 450-500. And yes if the timing belt breaks it is an interference head and the piston(s) will contact the valves in that situation. Also a good tune up never hurts. Plugs, cap & rotor, air filter, valve adjustment. RICK