Yes, the guide should have movement but it may not flap around freely. If I remember correctly, it pivots from one end (the top?) and is held fairly tightly in the cylinder block so it will not clatter around. You should however be able to move it easily by hand without having to push very hard or pry on it.
You absolutely have some free play as far as the cam chain goes, otherwise the chain would not be free to bunch up as in those pictures you took.
Again, the cam chain's job is to pull the cams around with the crankshaft so the following or slack side (back side) of the cam chain means nothing and can be quite loose before the tensioner pushes the guide out to absorb that excess chain.
This stuff is really hard to diagnose using subjective words instead of being there in person. Not your fault, or anyone else's fault but describing noises, clearances, the way something feels (easy boys!), etc. is really tough. Nothing wrong with trying to do this over the 'Net, but it is not as easy as it would be in person to understand what is going on.
Brian
I vaguely remembered that thread as I was working and it influenced my decision to give up after the first try and remove both cams instead. I agree with Brian, cannot see why one cam can't be done.
I still wonder if I have a problem with the rear chain guide.
QUESTION: with the CCT removed shouldn't the guide have some free play even with both cams installed..