You need to remove all the front accessories to access the timing cover. I'm talking power steering pump, alternator, pollution pump and if I remember correctly, the AC compressor bracket but the compressor doesn't need to be removed. It's also good to remove the thermostat housing to more easily remove the water pump. Yes, you remove the lower pulley and balancer. Once you get the timing cover off, there's no sense in NOT replacing the timing gears and chain, even if it looks like it was already done before.
The plastic gears get replaced by metal ones along with a new chain.
I you want to just check the chain for slack. You can take off the fuel pump, stick your finger in the hole and feel the chain. You will be able to tell if you need a new one.
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