[BettyFkinCrocker]

The chain being taught or slack is not of much concern. There is a more technical explanation I'm sure someone will provide, but basically it just depends on where the engine comes to rest once shut off.

The guide definitely seems to have much more play than it should. I've tried to get a boroscope down through the oil fill hole but it's nearly impossible to see anything of value once down there. Your best/cheapest bet is to drain the oil and use a boroscope into the oil pan to look for pieces of plastic in the bottom.