Why Take the chance....I'm in the process as well and i'm rebuilding the entire valvetrain except for the cams, and the timing chains/guides/tensioners/etc...If there is a weak link in the system somewhere youll know that it has been replaced...Even though the CSVT is a noninterference motor (meaning that the timing will be retarded if anything in the aforementioned decides to take a s*$t on you in order to not harm the rest of the motor) i dont see why taking a chance would be good idea...??? Trust me, i understand the idea of working on a budget and not being able to afford everything at once...but do it right the first time...I know because ive been w/o my car for five months and its my daily driver...I'm willing to pay for the insurance that my motor is going to stay together when i beat the hell out of it...
