I'm thinking as the ITD play is not in the whole mm range. And the pump is fairly easy to remove. I'll try and get my car on the road. And check the VP and ITD in a week. Then a month. Maybe drive it to a shop and have them check it out.

To switch to synthetic oil I just need the oil fully drained like it is now right? I had rottella on it.

Does the VP gasket need any special goop?
How about the oil pan gasket that I'm replacing?

I can look those things up pretty easy though.

Thanks for sharing. It's been a help!