I have a new BF20 and am stocking spare parts. How often should timing belts be changed? Is this an engine that can damage itself when the timing belt fails (piston contact to valves)?

Manual says to check/adjust timing belt every 200 hours or yearly.

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Boats.net
Honda Outboard Parts

Joe, I have worked on BF75/8A/100 & 9.9/15 Hondas for about 20 years and have never seen a timing belt fail. Sometimes on motors that have lots and lots of hours on them, the timing belt might need to be replaced due to being a bit worn (loose). Check it from time to time for wear or damage (plys separating, cracks in rubber, etc.) but these are pretty sturdy belts. I initially thought I would need to keep a few "in stock", but have actually never had to buy one. They will almost last the life of the rest of the motor in my experiences.