Yes Ferdman! Thanks again! That is a very good tip. As you have to apply downard pressure and slide that cover on but it does pull on and roll that gasket. Live and learn! Thought that would be easiest part of the job yesterday. But thanks again, I'm sure that will work. Until then, carrying oil with me.
One tip that worked for me on getting the water pump out was to use to different length 13mm box wrenches on the top rear bolt just to crack it (after moving dipstick out of the way). Once I did that, it was much easier to wratchet out at that awkward angle. The bottom rear came straight out and went straight back in. I also did not loosen the waterpump mounts just took off the pulley. Pump came out and went back in. Tensioner went out and in and also adjusted very easily.

Steve