Depends on what "performance" means. I had a friend who used to drag race his Ford Pinto. Before racing, he would move the camshaft sprocket 1 tooth back on the rubber belt (OHC) for better high rpm performance (and thus max HP). He would move it back for daily driving. Similarly, many camshafts can be installed 4 deg advanced, 4 deg retarded, or "straight-up". Advanced is best for low-end and better mileage, while retarded is best for racing (but crappier idle). So, don't fret about a worn timing chain, since some people prefer the camshaft timing being retarded. BTW, I installed the new camshaft 4 deg advanced in my 273 engine since I prefer mileage and that also allows for future wear.
