Need Help: Timing Chain Removal

[Sidewinder]

I started breaking down the shortblock today and ran into a snag. I need to remove the timing chain and sprockets so I can get the camshaft out. Now apparently I need to line up the timing correctly before I remove the chain and sprockets, but I do not have a bolt to attach to the crankshaft so I can spin it to TDC and line up the timing marks. I didn't get it with the engine, nor did I know that I even needed it.

My question, is getting TDC absolutely necessary before removing the camshaft or can I remove the sprockets and do it later? I've looked around trying to find the answer but nothing I have read elaborated on this point. Considering I am pulling this engine apart wouldn't I have to reset it all anyway once it goes back together?

[sprucegagt]

Your right. You would be aligning everything again when you rebuild. So just take the cam bolt out and take the gears off.

[geoffinbc]

Yea I don;t know why anyone would say to do that. It gets done on re assembly.

[Sidewinder]

Yea I don;t know why anyone would say to do that. It gets done on re assembly.

Ok cool, that's what I was thinking. Well everything I have been reading about it was all about replacing the timing chain. So I'm guessing the timing thing is so you can just quickly replace the chain and have it set properly. Thanks for clarifying