Foolproof check for timeing chain replacement?

[zeedre]

Hi Gents,
my 318 makes a clattering noise when I first start it up (among others) but as soon as I get going and its even marginally warmed up, it runs quietly.  My suspicion is the timeing chain.  Broken odometer says 130k and I've owned it for 5k but it appears that it was well maintained. 

So, my questions is : is there an easy way to tell that the timing chain needs to be replaced?  Just the parts are 500 so being certain would be great.

[1998ccc]

Not foolproof but a good guide.  If your cam sprocket teeth are sharp, vs square tipped, you have wear.  The curved guide will have ditches and the plastic will be cracking on the straight guide on high mile engines.

Good luck.

[zeedre]

Is there an easy way to eyeball this or do I have to remove the whole front of the motor like if I was doing the work?

[1998ccc]

Valve cover off and a good flashlight will do the job.  You can pull the chain tensioner to aid in checking the depth of the curved guide chain ditch.