OK, I have read a bit back and located the chain tensioner article in the FSM, 05-300.

I see that this isn't exactly an 'easy' procedure. Coolant has to come out, thermostat housing has to come off. Definitely a daylong adventure.

Would it be worth it to try changing just the spring initially?

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'85 300D, 'Lance',250k, ... winter beater (100k on franken-Frybrid 3 Valve Kit)
'82 300D, 'Tex', 228k body / 170k engine ... summer car
'83 300TD Cali Wagon 210k, wife's car