Unless the harmonic balancer slips forward on the crankshaft snout, there's virtually no way for the crankshaft gear to touch the timing cover, and I'm pretty sure the angle of the gear teeth and the rotation of the crankshaft will keep the cam gear pushed back against the thrust plate. Not saying it's impossible- - - -you might also find a chicken with lips one of these days! If there's a bunch of big dents in the timing cover, all bets are off, however!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!