I ran my 71 Moss Box Plus 8 with a belt for nearly 10 years with no ill effect. See pic. This pic was taken right before I sold it, and there is no damage from the belt.

I did have the sheepskin version though and I have that same style on my replacement car, the 86 Plus 8. So I cannot collaborate the damage experience.

In my experience, it is the belt in many cases that identify the car as a Morgan or starts a conversation with admirers.

Cheers.

Attached Images
71 Plus 8 w Belt.jpg (84.07 KB, 126 downloads)
71 Plus 8
86 Plus 8 w Belt.jpg (123.26 KB, 127 downloads)
86 Plus 8
Mark

1934 SS MX4
1938 Series 1 DHC
1951 Plus 4
2005 Roadster