What compu_85 said. When you restart, have some turn the key to the glow position while you watch the shut off lever. It should pop smartly to the vertical position. It it lags or doesn't get quite vertical, you won't get full pressure to the injectors.

We don't measure timing chains for play, we measure for elongation. The tensioner is able to keep tension on the chain way beyond the elongation limit. You have to check the chain against various timing marks -

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/56836-93-2-5-turbo-timing-chain-replacement-interval.html

But I doubt your situation is a symptom of a worn chain.

Sixto
87 300D