I have a '99 CR-V. The recommendation is to replace the timing
chain at 60K. Is it really that necessary to change it at 60K or
can it wait?

Thanks!

Recommended by who? Here is the list from Honda website, on recommended
maintenance for 60,000mi/4 years for 1999 CR-V 4WD EX 4 Speed Automatic:

/Services to be performed:/
Replace engine oil, filter and drain plug washer with Genuine Honda Parts.
Inspect and rotate tires.
Inspect wiper blades.
Check/adjust fluid levels.
Road test.
Replace air filter with Genuine Honda Parts.
Inspect belts, hoses, fuel lines and exhaust system.
Inspect front and rear brake assemblies.
Inspect steering system, suspension components, alignment and parking
brake


Which is way far from replacement of timing belt. First thing, is to
check what is recommended by Honda.

Very often dealers recommend to replace a lot more that what Honda
does. Ask them for a reason, and for amount of research/testing they
put in there recommendation. Almost always, the only reason they
recommend something, is to get more money out of you. 3000 mi oil change
in classic example.

Anyway, if timing belt (not chain) will fail, your engine will stop
working but nothing will break, and replacement at that time will cost
exactly the same as replacement today. Timing belt ussualy expected to
last 100,000+mi, but they may last way longer than that.

So it is up to you if you want to replace

Normal interval is 105k If you drive hard, or in extreme
temperatures, do it at 60k. On an interference engine, if the belt
breaks, you will destroy the engine. Better safe than sorry. Have it
done if you're not 100% comfortable inside an engine.

I wish they'd always use chains. A chain wont break. They stretch and
throw off the timing, letting you know to change it.