Anyhow,
I had a question about the front timing covers for these engines.
What actually locates the cover to the block? Chevy V8 uses two small dowel pins. I'm afraid that if it is not located correctly, the front seal will leak.
Pics to follow.
Professional engine builders have specialty tools they make or buy to accomplish this task. I have many for different engines that range from old balancers with the outer ring pushed off of them to billet hubs with keyway's broached in them i've made to slide on the crank snout to take the place of the balancer that will center the timing cover.
You will have to loosen your oil pan because it being snugged up into position already can/will force the timing cover out of center regardless of any method you use to center the timing cover.
