recurring cam chain knock

[Kevin Powers]

My cam chain was knocking recently. I removed the cam chain adjuster assembly and reinstalled it, which caused the noise to go away. At least for a while. Repeated the process with the same results - quiet for a while but now the noise is back. Is this a wear item? could the spring need replacing? FYI, the inboard nut is too snug to get at with a socket or an open end wrench. -- Kevin Powers White Bear Lake, MN