Timing Chain
 

Is there an external method to adjust timing chain tension on 87 300SDL?

Ebay has chain tensioner for 86-87 diesel, mine has identical part on passenger side of engine projecting from timing chain cover, if it's there, what is the procedure to adjust, sure I'm getting chain rattle, car has 185K, know chain has not been replaced. Also, anyone having maint manual for this car. or know where to get one would be appreciated. Thanks

As far as parts and Ebay goes it is best to ask questions as what country the the part is made in and what company makes it.

Since you mentioned you are haveing some noise I would get a Mechanics Stethoscope (cheap at Harbor Freight stores) and try to pin point where the noise is coming from.
I say that for 2 reasons. One is trouble shooting by replacing parts is expensive and frustrating. Next the Vacuum Pump is driven in the end is driven by the Timing Chain and in the same area. When they go bad they often get noisy before they fail.

When the Vacuum Pump fails often the parts fall into the Timing Gear/Chain and can cause serious damage to your Engine.

If you are dead set on changing the Timing Chain at the minimum you should also replace the Tensioner Rail and the Timing Chain Tensioner.