Tic tic noise during morning start

[ejaahm]

My car 1990 190E 2.6 with 166K milage, makes a tic tic type noise while starting in the morning for 1st few seconds and the sound goes away when oil pressure rise. Typical timing chain sound, right?

So after searching several post, I decided to replace the timing chain tensioner as many had suggested that the chain in M103 motor does not need to be replaced. Upon inspection, the old tensioner did not extend much, may be 3-4 mm (13mm= replace chain, right?). The old spring was 2-3 mm shorter then the new one. Anyhow, replaced the timming chain tensioner.

The sound still existed. I read somewhere in the forum that the same type of noise can be created by a loose valve lifter (I don't know what it is)

Q1. How do I differentiate if the noise is due to valve lifter or loose timing chain?

Q2. If it is due to valve lifter how easy it is to fix, can I do it by myself? what materials do I need?

Q3. If it is due to timing chain, how easy to do that? I saw some DIY pics and seems not too tuff. What stuff do I need buy like, oil seal, .....etc

Your expert opinion plz.