a4e30

So I have a 1997 Audi A4 1.8t FWD AWM (not sure if its original)
The cam chain tensioner went 2 years ago and I had the head redone with new valves and a new cam chain tensioner but recently the chain has been hitting the valve cover to a point where it broke a piece off, so I took it off the road and did the oil pump and still it hits the valve cover, I have a new valve cover and when I put it on the car ticks very loud for a very seconds, then goes quiet for a few seconds, then shuts off, and it wont turn back on unless you keep cranking for a while or waiting a bit and trying again. would this mean the chain is stretched or the tensioner failed ? it was replaced with OEM, but the exhaust cam gear teeth are a bit worn so I think this may also be a factor. I checked the links between cams and the 16th tooth is halfway over but im stumped, not sure if i should replace tensioner or chain all advice appreciated