Is it Ok to use the big nut on the pump timing gear to turn the engine over so I can access the case mounting bolts behind the cam gear? I hit a little snag on an 'afternoon project' to replace the cover gasket...turns out my kdp has been rtv'd (no kidding) and one of my timing cover bolts had rattled out, hence my oil leak..should these be loctited, or is that an uncommon occurance?....the leak wasn't too bad over the winter, but once I put my fan back on this spring it started to make a bit of a mess on a good note, I was able to take everything off in fairly short time, 4x4low and the harmonic balancer bolts came right out!....anyway, thanx...

 

I would not try to rotate the engine by the pump gear. The shaft on the pump will probably break off or strip out. Put 2 of the balancer bolts in and use a pry bar to turn it. If you are this far I would use brake cleaner on all the bolts (and holes) and Lock-Tite them in.
Just m 2 cents.

 

No, do not use the pump to spin the motor. You will strip the pump shaft - just ask Thumbs.

 

Right on, thanks...after taking a good look at it yesterday I decided it was a poor idea and put the balancer back on to turn it...anything else I should check before I put the cover back on? ian

 

Cam retainer bolts sould be tight and locktighted, But when you put the peirs cam in you will be doing that anyways lol