Make sure you replace the timing change and adjuster. I have even replaced the guide part.... You do not want the chain to break... There go your valves...I am not trying to say you were not going to do that. I have been down that road more than once
With my old 4x4 the engine "had" to removed to get to that stuff. I know it can be done with out pulling the engine, but it was easier for me after working days to get the pan and everything lined up and never did. I did not replace the tensioner and it went bad-locked up, and there went the whole thing again... Replace it all is my mantra on this engine.
6 valves the first time, 4 the second time.
The previous owner mentioned that he changed the timing chain when it was parked 10 or so years ago. I suspect he figured out that he bent a valve and parked it. This is why I got it so cheap. The chain guide and tensioner look pretty good as the engine only has about 62K miles. Hopefully I won't regret leaving them in. It's hard to decide on what to replace on a low budget rebuild. I'm just looking to get this machine up and running without breaking the bank. I've already spent more than I hoped I would. If I go much further, I might as well fix the body and paint it.....