timing chain
 

What would cause a timing chain tensioner not to work, I have taken the cover off and everything is in place but when I start the engine the chain is hitting the cover. It`s a 1981 22R

Oil pressure? Chain stretched so tensioner is maxed? Guides broken?

I'm not positive if there is a spring assist in the 22R tensioner, if so, possibly failed spring.

How does the oil get to the tensioner, and can the oil pump be bad

Chain hitting the cover...?

If its hitting the inside of the cover then you have damaged/missing timing chain guides(dampers).

The chain tensioner is an oil assisted spring tensioner.

Low oil pressure can cause timing chain tensioner to be inoperable/faulty.

Low engine oil level.

Incorrect engine oil weight.

Oil gallery passage blockage to timing chain tensioner.

Failed oil pump.

Incorrect timing chain tensioner.

Timing chain worn beyond service life.

Internal engine damage.

Im going with the rest of the guys here and saying that a guide has to be broken if its hitting the case.