86 2.8L Engine Knock

[76TARon]

I have a stock 2.8L v6 with 149K in my 86SE. The engine has a knock, so I pulled the oil pan to inspect the bearings and rods. The oil pan, crank and rods looked pretty clean. I rotated the crack back and fourth to see if there was any play in any of the rod bearing. By feel and visually, I could not find any play in any of the bearings (ther was some axis play, but that is normal). However when I rotated the crack back and fourth it seams like there is a large amount of slack / play in the timing chain / gears and I can hear a knock-like noise from that area. Could this be the source of the knock? If so, can the chain and gears be replaced without pulling the motor?

I'm also wondering if it worth repairing this with the high mileage on my motor. I was thinking of an engine swap, but it seams like even more work. What would you suggest?

Thanks,
Ron

 

[76TARon]

Here is a link to a video of the engine running. Does anyone have a idea about what is the cause of the rattle / knock?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IsINALOF5PE&feature=youtu.be

 

[Oreif]

A worn timing chain can cause some issues. At Jegs or Summit Racing you can buy a double roller timing chain set. To replace it, You will need to remove the two rear cradle bolts and swing the cradle down about 4 to 6" in order to take the crank pulley off. So yes it can be done without pulling the engine.