Escort Van low (I mean really low) power.

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I have a 1.8 non-turbo diesel Escort van, 1999 (V) model with 105,000 miles on the clock. When I bought it there was abox in the back with timing belts and pulleys in, so I have assumed these have been replaced.
The power is extremely low, though it is relatively smooth.
I have to use at least 50% throttle to get the revs up for pulling away, though the cable is not loose.
Despite the lack of performance I only get about 40mpg.
There is not excessive exhaust smoke.
I have changed the fuel, air, and oil filters.
I have used a diesel injector cleaner additive without success.
A mechanic has checked the belts and confirmed "the timing is correct", though without special tools and without removing the cam cover.
The tappets sound a little noisy (rattly) like they have too much clearance.
The injection pump is Lucas CAV.

I am about to have a specialist diesel fitter check the timing again. he says he will have to remove the alternator to check it properly, and stressed that it only needs to be a smidgeon out to run poorly, and he can adjust the pump timing by very small amounts.

My questions for the learned are:-
1. Does the specialist have a valid point, so is there a good chance of improvement from his work (and my half day without work)?
2. How long does it take to re-shim the tappets, and would it be worthwhile having them done at the same time, though I'd rather do one change at a time and see the results of each?
3. What else should I be focussing on?
 
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Pump timing isn't the same as engine timing and it can make a big difference. The engine timing can be out a good bit and you'll only notice at cold start up. The engine will run rough and canter, belching all kinds of strange coloured smoke. After the engine runs for a short time the cold start on the pump disengages and everything seems fine. Pump timing is different and although it runs off the same belt the pump timing is adjustable separately, on or in the pump itself. This can make a lot of difference to power and it sounds like that's your problem. Although the escort 1.8D I had wasn't the sprightliest around it would move off without touching the throttle. The pump could also be worn or faulty but let's not worry about that for now.
 
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