Hi, No, the front cover is not off. I have both pins out of the guide, and it is completely loose; it just will not pass out past the sprocket, chain, etc. I am replacing all three upper guides, the tensioner rail and tensioner, and the chain, cam lube tube plastic parts, as well as some hoses and misc parts which will be convenient at this time. Cam lobes are all very smooth, there is no sludge, and everything looks pretty good for 20 years and 149K.
Thanks