Am I right? Long Thread

[jajohnson89]

Just bought my first Ranger this past Christmas and I was completely aware of a head gasket leak (external coolant) and all six freeze plugs on the sides of the block were leaking. So, an engine pull was in store. This past weekend, I yanked the 4.0 and proceeded to yank everything apart and in the process I got a little too over zealous and pulled the oil pump drive gear out which has the Camshaft position sensor on top of it. I know the Chilton book tells you to reinstall it with it engine at TDC on Cyl #1 and turn the sensor 60 deg counter clockwise from center of the block. Unfortunately, you need a special tool to do this accurately. I have the tool on special order because no auto parts store for 50 miles has one in stock. Only a $20 buy. My question is, am I missing anything or does anybody have any hints/tips/tricks for this thing. I've inspected and replaced everything on the top end now and this sensor/gear is the only thing holding me up on putting the engine back in and being back on the road. I know I can do it with the engine in but I'm a "perty big fella" and its much, much easier for me to do with it pulled.