Is it a knock(rod knock), a rattling(timing chain), or a diesel clank(valves).

The 22r/e's clank like a diesel when the valves are lose.

Is the T-chain lose at the T-gear, there shouldn't be any play at all in the T-chain.

You can either unbolt the engine from the mounts, or unbolt the front diff and lower it down, to remove the oil the pan. If there are pieces of plastic in the pan, it is likely the T-Chain.

More than tread lightly. Leave it like you were never there, nor anyone else.
'90 X-cab 4.88's 33 BFG AT's, rr ARB, Headers, Ignition upgrade, cold air induction.
'91 X-cab 5.29's 315's BFG MT's, rr ARB, custom bumper and flatbed