Tony, more than likely it is the lower chain guide(to prevent the chain from riding against the side of the front cover) that is causing your problem. It generally cracks off at the mounting bolts and falls to the bottom of the cover near the oil pump allowing the chain to ride freely, metal against metal. It doesn't affect the chain so much but does a number on the housing. If it was the top tensioner and guide that failed, you would have noticed wear on either the valve cover or sides around the chain but I believe this is rare or impossible for the top chain to hit the metal.
Check out my site for more information.
It is a big job to complete although changing the guides only took about 20 minutes. If you get a mechanic to do it will cost you about $1100 for parts and labour. I'm doing the work myself in my driveway and it's definitely not the easiest thing I've ever done and I've ran into a few problems during the reassembly process. I should have everything completed by this evening or tomorrow at least. I never replaced my timing chain as it was in good condition as were the sprockets. I never removed the cylinder head either(which made reassembly more difficult) but Nissan now has a new tech. doc. on how to change the chain with having to take the head off. I don't have this document but from Nissan's website it will cost you $30 a day to view.
You can probably get the parts you need locally or ordered online here:
http://www.courtesyparts.com/B13_TBKIT16.html
You seem to have a good idea what you're looking for and knowledge of working on engines. If you have a week or so and an extra car available you could probably accomplish this yourself but a friend is always good to have around.