Have no idea how to check for timing gear issues.

My son doesn't want it...he likes it, but, after having to on many occasions pull over and diagnose a problem (even put in new points and condenser at one point on side of road with him), he would like something a little more dependable. At 16 it's all about appearances...think he's afraid he'll have his head stuck in engine compartment at the time a girl he likes drives by.