I put in a new (used) engine in my wagon for which I don't have much history - the PO only had it for a little while and didn't know much of the maintenance history before he got it. It runs well but lacks top-end power and knocks, and sometimes smokes a lot (but the price was right ). I figured the IP timing was off, but I thought I should check the chain stretch first...

I checked my chain stretch using the cam timing marks method as outlined in the wiki. I know this isn't the most accurate method but until I get a dial indicator it's the best I can do.

The results seem a little strange though. From what I understand, ideally the reading on the crank should be 0 TDC to 2 degrees ATDC, or more if the chain is stretched. I'm getting a little over 9 degrees before TDC . I did the measurement multiple times, I'm sure I aligned the marks perfectly and I never rotated backwards (counterclockwise). See the pictures...

I'm trying to get my hands on a dial indicator to double check.

What's up with this? What does it mean?? Am I doing this wrong?

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'81 300TD Wagon 355k (Miss Diesel)
'83 300SD 180k
'84 500SEL 190k (Parting it out)