George,
Like Adrian and Steve, I am fairly sure that this is not good. The 'grinding' marks seem indicative of the timing chain whipping around ( I can't imagine anything else that would cause them ) but just
how the chain would make marks in such a position I cannot imagine. The marks seem to be very close to the cam sprocket ( where the chain should not be physically
capable of leaving such marks ) and on the 'tight' side of the chain too.........
As I think I mentioned before, I would replace the chain and all tensioner components as a matter of course. The costs incurred seem to me to be good insurance considering you are going to be taking off the sump and front cover anyway.
I have some unused stuff I can bring with me ( chain tensioner, both guides, new chain and a good cam sprocket ) just in case they are needed.
I think I also have
both types of timing position pointers too - so we can match one up with your front pulley. But how come the pulley does not match up with the pointer on the front cover? Sounds like a mis-match to me - which raises suspicions ( and worries ) about the engine's history. Who has been messing around with it before it went into your car?.............
We were going to go to Japan today ( Weds ) but the 'wife' discovered that there was a bonus episode of Eastenders tonight and changed the booking to tomorrow ( Thurs. ). Either that or I made a mistake
............. We have changed our return date too ( now going direct to Kyushu and
then on to Sapporo ) so I'll be back in London on 9th January. Should be able to visit you during that week hopefully. Does that sound feasible to you?
Take your time over this George. Don't rush it and trust to faith. I think you need somebody to give you a second opinion and look over your shoulder. Hope you can wait until I return from Japan........
Cheers
Alan T.