I am in the middle of replacing the timing chain (84' 300TD), valve cover is off and I just measured the chain stretch to be 11 degrees by using the TDC mark on the cam and checking the degree mark at the crankshaft. I inspected the tensioning rail (banana shaped one, Type B hook) and found it to be out of alignment. This is evident in two ways: the chain tensioner shaft is out of alignment with the tension rail shaft by about 1/8" (see pictures), and the tension rail pad is about 3/16" off center with the center of the chain angled towards the back of the engine (have a picture of this too but can't load 2 pics on this post).

I have a few questions that I was hoping to get some help on:

1. Why is the tension rail out of alignment?

2. Does the tension rail need to be replaced? If so, does this rail just slide off a pin once the chain tensioner is removed?

3. After I replace the timing chain --> Is it sufficient to simply reassemble the rail and tensioner and assume the tension rail will stay in alignment?

Please let me know.

Thanks!
Billy

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