details of timing belt procedure (C-GT)

[Allan Jones <ampj@tiac.net>]

Hi all,
	On my '86 C-GT, I am finally performing the arduous task of R/R the H2O
pump and timing belt(thought to be original @ 169K miles!-what would it
look like? because it doesn't look that bad) at a leisurely pace(have
time/short on money :-) / :-(  ...also 1st time) and have gotten to the
point where I have a few questions built up. I have EVERYTHING off and
loosened(4 allen bolts on crankshaft pulley) EXCEPT for the infamous
CRANKSHAFT centrer bolt and thus the crankshaft pulley with belts. Just
FYI, I am also performing routine maintenance such as painting of
valve&timing-covers(not-so-routine), valve-cover gasket, cleaning of
sludge on engine, plugs, belts, K&N cleaning, checking and replacing of
hoses, etc. So without spending more of Phil's money  ;-) and your time,
here goes:

1)How safe on the drivetrain is it to unlock the crankshaft bolt using
the fifth gear engaged/stand-on-the-brakes method? Can I do this with
the old timing belt and camshaft gear already removed? Also, I do NOT
have the required 27mm socket(can buy if need be), but I DO have the
American inch equivilant(1-1/16") and it seems to fit very well...does
anyone have any experience, advice(I know this is high torque stuff and
it should be a perfect fit, but...), comments?

2)With respect to the timing belt(it's already off), was I supposed to:
remove anything in any order, release tension anyway/where first or in
any order, and should I be careful not to move the cam and/or crank
gears since I have removed the belt, or can the shafts be realigned
later?

3)Is it possible to check the hydraulic lifters(cam followers, tappets)
for proper(?) clearance?? While cover is off, is there anything else I
should be doing outside of gaskets, seals..... 

4)How do I clean the engine with all of the various hoses off and
openings(H2O pump and valve cover), should I plug the holes and put the
cover back on or just wipe down w/ rag and hose away?

THANKS!!
          _____    _____________    _________________________________

          ALLAN    ampj@tiac.net    '86 COMMEMORATIVE DESIGN COUPE GT
          JONES    Burlington MA     169K and sitting in many pieces
          _____    _____________    _________________________________