KZ 650 stuborn Cam Chain Issue

On my 650 project I can't get the cam chain tick to go way. This is a 79 motor with the solid adjust type tensioner. I took the valve cover off and got the cams lined up and the slack out of the chain and then set the tensioner(several times now). The cam chain clanks at low rpm and under accelleration. Between 2 to 4K on the tach it runs pretty smooth, over 4k and I can hear it again but fainter. I have also tryed a new type ball-lock tensioner (of an '80 model) with the same results. So is this an indication that the chain is shot? Is there something I am missing since I have never owned a 650 before The motor runs very strong otherwise. The valves all have about .004" clearnce, on the tight side but still in spec, no reason the valvetrain would make noise...

change the oil lately? did you see any debris? black crusty hard pieces? maybe the chain idler/guide damaged?

This motor has roller gides, they seem to be ok as far as I can tell.

I am having the same issue and have ordered a new cam chain and an idler wheel for a KZ900 as it is the same diameter as the tensioner wheel. I am hoping this will solve my problem. Not to high jack, but when replacing the cam chain do you just have to break the old chain and connect the new one to it and then feed it through or do you have to break the block?