Not trying to sound derogatory, but did you check both sides of the timing chain? I recently had the same experience and found that the chain only had bright links on one side - I promptly removed the chain, turned it around, and timed the engine.

95 Montero SR
3.8 MIVEC, Advance headers, 2 1/2" exhaust, Magnaflow muffler, OME shocks & rear springs, 2" body lift, 3" tank lift, 4.90s, TRE front locker, factory rear locker, Roger Brown Rock Sliderz, 315/75r16 (35") tires, Sport big brakes